The Wheatsheaf
Self Catering Cottage Towcester
Christmas is approaching at the Wheatsheaf! Our tree is up and beautifully decorated. Let the festivities begin! We might just need some mistletoe to complete the atmosphere. Join us for the ideal setting to celebrate the season!
During excavations of the courtyard on the site of the demolished building, a remarkable discovery was made—an ancient well, four meters deep, believed to be at least 300 years old. Plans are underway for its restoration, along with the installation of lighting and glass to ensure it remains on permanent display. This addition will enhance the character and aesthetics of the Wheatsheaf.
The front door needed a little attention!
Much better!
Appearance of The Wheatsheaf from Watling Street when purchased in 2019.
Appearance immediately after having timber sashes re-instated, the concrete roof replaced with hand made clay tiles and repointing of all the stonework.
The view from the rear highlighting the concrete roof which replaced the removal of the original clay tiled roof in 1960’s. The modern replacement windows were removed and replaced with timber sashes. Rotten brickwork was replaced with reclaimed Georgian bricks using lime mortar and the remaining original brickwork and stonework was repointed.
Check out the lounge at The Wheatsheaf before the renovation was undertaken. This area was in desperate need of a makeover with its slightly damp atmosphere, seventy’s wallpaper and the shag pile carpet so characteristic of that era.
The single-pane 1960s windows were replaced with bespoke timber sashes that mirrored the originals perfectly.
The replacement wallpaper used is “The Snow Tree” a reproduction of the design created for the King of Sweden in the 18th century. The gypsum plaster has been replaced with lime, while the original elm window seats, stripped of years of paint, have been beautifully restored.
The lounge is now a tastefully furnished haven with George II antiques, making it warm, inviting, comfortable, and stylish. It is the perfect place to catch up with friends and family.
The solid oak floorboards in the main lounge and the second-floor twin bedroom were salvaged from Easton Neston House after a devastating fire swept through the Wren Wing in 2002. The original joinery suffered significant damage from both the flames and the extensive water used to extinguish the blaze, necessitating the replacement of some oak floorboards. Fortunately, these original boards were saved from destruction. Over a period of three years, they were meticulously cleaned and re-waxed.It’s remarkable to consider that Sir Christopher Wren and his contemporaries likely played a role in sourcing and seasoning the oak before it was laid in the Wren Wing. It’s gratifying to know these restored boards will remain in The Wheatsheaf for years to come.
Why not celebrate New Year in style. The Wheatsheaf is the perfect venue to welcome in 2025 equipped with a communal kitchen/diner and lounge. A great social space where meals can be prepared and served and drinks can be enjoyed in front of the roaring fire ….
