11 bed detached house for sale

Pooles Lane, Stroud GL5

Dating from 1584, Stanley Park is one of the region’s most remarkable historic houses.

Extensively rebuilt in 1850 and enlarged in 1870 for Sir Samuel Stephens Marling, later the 1st Baronet of Stanley Park and Sedbury Park, the estate remained closely associated with the prominent Marling family for generations.

Its distinguished history includes a royal visit in 1941, when Queen Mary toured the house and gardens before taking afternoon tea with Lady Beatrice Marling.

More recently it has undergone a comprehensive eight year restoration, preserving its architectural heritage while introducing exceptional contemporary finishes throughout.

The gothic-arched porch opens into a breathtaking reception hall, where an original stone fireplace, intricately carved timberwork, ornate arches, decorative plasterwork, hardwood floors and mullioned windows immediately reveal the grandeur of the house.

Flanking the hall are the handsome library and an elegant sitting room, while the richly panelled billiard room provides another superb entertaining space.

Beyond, a beautiful stained-glass skylight illuminates the approach to the ballroom, undoubtedly one of the house’s defining features. With its remarkable proportions, intricate detailing and spectacular views across the River Severn towards the Black Mountains, this is an unforgettable setting for entertaining on a grand scale.

The west-facing drawing room is equally impressive, opening directly onto the expansive terrace and leading to the Gentleman’s spiral staircase which retains its original Victorian tiles.

Three staircases descend to the vast lower ground floor, the largest level of the house which has been transformed into an outstanding contemporary entertaining and leisure space. Underfloor heating runs beneath elegant flagstone flooring throughout.

At its heart is a magnificent entertaining kitchen with premium appliances and French doors opening onto the gardens. This level also includes an inviting sitting room with a log burner, a sophisticated dining area, a state-of-the-art cinema and the extraordinary original wine cellar, capable of accommodating approximately 4,000 bottles.

The leisure facilities include a fitness studio, sauna and shower room. A professional chef’s kitchen, together with a fully equipped utility and laundry room, allows the house to accommodate entertaining on an impressive scale. Further stairs descend to the extensive original cellars, which open directly onto the lower gardens through a wrought-iron gate.

The first floor is arranged around a sumptuous principal suite, comprising a generously proportioned bedroom, luxurious central bathroom, separate WC and an extensively fitted dressing room with a central island and atmospheric starlit ceiling. Four further substantial bedrooms, three of them en suite, enjoy far-reaching views across the surrounding countryside.

The top floor provides six additional bedrooms, four en suite, and a family bathroom, offering superb accommodation for guests, family or live-in staff.

Adding to Stanley Park’s more recent cultural history, the estate was also home to Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher, who rented the property for approximately a year in the period leading up to the band’s reunion tour.
Outside


Set within approximately 2.5 acres, the enchanting gardens create a wonderfully private setting for the house. Mature planting, sweeping lawns and a series of terraces provide inviting spaces for outdoor dining, entertaining and relaxation, while making the most of the property’s elevated position and exceptional views.

Stanley Park is an exceptional country house in every sense: Historically significant, architecturally spectacular and restored with extraordinary attention to detail. Few houses combine such grandeur, character and versatility while remaining so perfectly suited to contemporary family life.
Location


Stanley Park occupies an idyllic position in Selsley, surrounded by some of Gloucestershire’s most beautiful countryside yet within easy reach of excellent amenities and transport connections.

Nearby Selsley Common offers glorious panoramic views and miles of scenic walking. Stroud is a vibrant market town renowned for its independent shops, artisan cafés and restaurants, together with everyday amenities including Waitrose and its celebrated farmers’ market. The larger centres of Tetbury, Cirencester, Cheltenham and Bath provide a broader selection of shopping, dining and cultural attractions.

Communications are excellent. Junction 13 of the M5 is just over five miles away, providing convenient access to Bristol, Cribbs and Birmingham. Direct rail services from Stroud reach London Paddington in approximately one hour and 25 minutes, while Bristol Airport is around 41 miles away.

The region offers an excellent variety of sporting and recreational opportunities including sailing at the Cotswold Water Park, racing at Cheltenham, Bath and Chepstow, polo at Cirencester and golf at Minchinhampton and Cotswold Edge.

There is also a superb choice of schooling nearby, including Marling School, Stroud High School, Wycliffe College and the renowned Beaudesert Park School, while Cheltenham Ladies’ College and Cheltenham College are within reach.
Property information


Square Footage: Approximately 17,385 sq ft

Acreage: Approximately 2.5 acres

Tenure: Freehold

Services: Mains electricity, gas, water and drainage

EPC Rating: D

Council Tax: Band H