Pemberley Avenue, Bedford, MK40

Bedford School, Bedford Park, Bedford at its best. Representing the holy grail of the town’s attractions, this sprawling property positioned on this leafy avenue is opposite the school’s field, within walking distance of an eclectic mix of amenities, and in prime commuter territory.

Situated on a sought-after road of predominantly family residencies, the appeal of the area is obvious. Of course, being within a literal stone’s throw of the prominent, independent Bedford School, part of the Harpur Trust, is a huge draw. Just at the top of the road is Bedford Park, which is the ideal expanse of greenspace to take a stroll around, especially with a dog in tow. The Embankment offers a riverside wander, following the swans down the water, beginning or ending at one of the many drinking and dining establishments Bedford provides. Day trips and weekends away in the capital are within quick and easy reach via train into London St Pancras and beyond.

The location is a blessing for families with children, who can walk, cycle or scooter to school in minutes, stopping off at the park, play area or pond on the way home. There’s Robinson gym and swimming pool conveniently only a few hundred metres away too.

Built at the turn of the century and retaining much of the period character, the house has been held in the same family since 1995, with the current generation updating and improving since moving in in 2016. There’s been new carpeting, wooden floors, plantation shutters, and Farrow & Ball redecoration, blending beautifully with details such as ceiling roses, picture rails, fireplaces, sash windows—and that striking stained glass in the stairwell! The accommodation is filled with light, with high ceilings and windows en masse, including incredible bay and corner bays. The opportunity to personalise is presented too, to build on the fantastic foundations to realise even higher realms.

Children will love growing up here, where they have plenty of space to roam. The square footage is vast, varied and versatile, with five reception rooms, six substantial bedrooms and four bathrooms.
Entering into the reception hall, you’re greeted with its size and brightness, inviting you in and welcoming you home. We have a hard time choosing a favourite room. The lounge and the dining room each have a gorgeous fireplace, an airy ambience, and space for grand furniture. There’s the office at the front, the family room to the side, and the conservatory at the back of the accommodation, best for springtime enjoyment.

In the kitchen, where morning sun streams in during the breakfast rush, there’s storage to extensive country-style cabinetry and a fitted Welsh dresser, alongside granite surfaces, a Franke sink, a range oven, Neff microwave and brand-new Neff dishwasher. The utility delivers separation for laundry, pet paraphernalia, muddy boots and paws.

The top floor has many options for use, perhaps as a private apartment for older children. We see this working very well for running a business from home, with multiple, separate office areas. The loft delivers further possibilities due to size and ceiling height.

Externally, the plot presents a generous and attractive setting for outdoor living. The rear garden is a great size for a trampoline, climbing frame and wendy house on the lawn for the children, and a dining table and chairs, sofa and barbeque on the patio for the parents. There are pretty planted beds, and the two tall trees at the back are a horse chestnut and a maple. To the side and front, the gated block-paved driveway affords parking for multiple cars, leading to the tandem garage for two more. The wide road is unrestricted for parking, handy for guests. Tell them to look for the white house with the blossom tree when they come to visit! It’s hard to miss a property such as this.