St Catherine’s Court: A Grade I Listed Architectural Masterpiece in Somerset on 14 Acres — £12.5 Million
Price: £12,500,000 Location: St Catherine, Bath, Somerset, England, United Kingdom Size: 18,987 Sq. Ft. Bedrooms: 11 Bathrooms: 7 Land: 14 Acres
A Landmark of English Heritage and Beauty
Perched in an elevated position amidst the rolling hills of Somerset, St Catherine’s Court is one of England’s most distinguished private residences—Grade I listed and steeped in nearly a millennium of history. Offering 18,987 sq. ft. of living space and set on approximately 14 acres of exquisite grounds, this extraordinary manor is now presented for sale at £12.5 million.
Approached via a long gravel driveway through ornate wrought-iron gates, the estate unfolds like a historical journey. The drive winds past a magnificent 15th-century tithe barn and the revered 12th-century church of St Catherine’s—both heritage landmarks in their own right—before arriving at the imposing manor house. Its front entrance, formerly a chapel doorway, now forms a striking introduction to a home defined by timeless elegance.
Historic Architecture Reimagined for Modern Living
St Catherine’s Court is an architectural treasure, with features that span centuries and speak to its storied past. Ancient oak floors, intricately carved plasterwork ceilings, wood-paneled rooms, coffered ceilings, and grand stone fireplaces are found throughout, seamlessly preserved and restored. Leaded light mullioned windows, some with original stained glass, cast enchanting patterns of light across the home’s labyrinthine corridors and staircases.
While rich in history, the manor has been thoughtfully restored, creating an elegant yet livable residence. Today, it stands not only as a deeply atmospheric family home but also as a grand venue for entertaining on a spectacular scale.
Legendary Gardens Inspired by Gertrude Jekyll
The landscaped grounds are of great historical and horticultural significance, appearing on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens. The renowned 20th-century garden designer Gertrude Jekyll famously praised St Catherine’s Court, writing:
“Many are the beautiful houses, but there is hardly one… whose charm of ancient beauty and of lovely, restful pleasure-ground can rival that of this delightful place.”
Jekyll’s admiration is reflected throughout the estate—broad terraces, long pergola walkways, dramatic stone staircases, and carefully orchestrated views are all features she deeply valued. Her philosophy of natural beauty and formal structure lives on in the estate’s gardens, where mature yew trees, rose-draped pergolas, and wildflower meadows coexist in poetic harmony.
Gardens & Grounds
To the south and west of the house, the formal gardens unfold in dramatic layers. Rising from the western flank, Jacobean stone steps lead to a historic bowling green flanked by an avenue of ancient yews and bordered by stone balustrades. Wisteria, roses, and herbaceous borders spill from the walkways, while deep lawns and sculpted topiary frame enchanting vistas.
Additional highlights include:
A long grass terrace below the ballroom with ornamental balustrades and symmetrical stairways
An apple orchard adjacent to an avenue of cherry trees
A stunning 20th-century Orangery, ideal for year-round enjoyment
Pasture and wildflower meadows encircling the gardens on the east, south, and west
A secluded tennis court located across the lane
Two stables positioned at the far eastern boundary
Mature mixed broadleaf woodland creating a natural amphitheater in the southern valley
Altogether, the estate encompasses approximately 13.78 acres of land.
Historic Outbuildings & Additional Dwellings
The estate also includes several ancillary buildings of significant character and utility:
The Tithe Barn: Likely dating to the 15th century, this vast Grade II* listed structure retains its original timber frame and barn doors. Now partially renovated, it features new oak-walled storage rooms and a mezzanine—ideal for events, studio space, or further development.
Serenity Lodge: Located at the entrance to the estate, this five-bedroom lodge was previously configured as two staff cottages. It offers flexibility as guest accommodation or as a private residence.
The Old School House: A charming three-bedroom cottage with private gardens, tucked away on the estate’s edge—perfect for extended family, caretakers, or rental income.
A Rare Opportunity
St Catherine’s Court is a once-in-a-generation offering—a rare convergence of architectural grandeur, historic provenance, and idyllic rural setting, just minutes from the cultural treasures of Bath. Whether as a private country retreat, a boutique hospitality venture, or a legacy estate, this extraordinary property invites a new chapter in its long and remarkable story.
