Ralph reviews a Georgian town house within Chester’s city walls
The other day I decided to walk the circumference of Chester’s city walls for my morning perambulation. When something is on one’s doorstep one can have a tendency to take it for granted so I decided to walk the walls as if I had never visited them before. Wow, what an invigorating experience it was.
Of course, I know that our Walls are something quite unique being the oldest, longest and most complete city walls in the country, parts of which date back to Roman times but I had honestly never noticed how many historical gems there are along their route. Usually, I am busy exploring the scents and sights I find along the way, always hoping to discover a discarded burger or two but today I focused on the architecture, and it was quite a revelation. Along that two mile walk I delighted in a plethora of medieval treats – Bonewaldesthorne’s Tower at the northwest corner, Morgan’s Mount and Pemberton’s Parlour at the north, Phoenix Tower, Barnaby’s Tower, and Thimbleby’s Tower at the east and to the south, the base of a drum-style tower to name but a few. By the time I had circumnavigated the city I felt like I had seen it through fresh eyes, and I realised how privileged we are to be able to call this place home.
On that very note, a few days later, still feeling very enamoured with our county’s capital city, I was thrilled to learn that the subject of my next Ralph’s Review was situated in the heart of the city, within those very special city walls. So off I set with a jaunty, dare I say debonair, spring in my step to visit No 2 Clayton Court. A short walk through the city took me to Duke Street and I stopped outside an attractive cream painted Georgian Grade II listed townhouse.
Once inside I found myself in an attractive entrance hall which led me into a beautiful kitchen and dining area. Styled with contemporary shaker style units, a gas fired Aga and a central island, it was the perfect complement to the period features – not least of which was a set of Georgian style French doors. As I padded over to admire them I saw that they opened onto a charming terrace – what a space to while away the hours with my canine friends or relax on a lazy Sunday with my favourite humans.
Feeling thoroughly at home I made my way back into the hallway and bounded up the stairs to the first floor. There I was dazzled by a spacious, contemporary sitting room that was as welcoming as it was stylish.
I loved the fact that, although the room had a decidedly modern feel, it still retained lovely period features like the fire surround and the coved ceiling. With a nod of satisfaction, I continued my journey through this eminently chic townhouse by making my way up another flight of stairs to the second floor where I found a beautiful bedroom and contemporary bathroom.
Pausing for a second to catch my breath, I readied myself for a climb up another set of stairs to the third storey – all I can say is it is a very good job that I have been sticking to my Couch to 5K regime for the last month otherwise I would have had to have a quick snooze before continuing on my quest!
The third floor was worth the effort though – there I found an additional two bedrooms and a shower room.
I have to say that the bedrooms thoroughly charmed me – both of them were full of character and were made extra special by the fact that they had French doors which opened onto a roof terrace. I stepped out onto the terrace and clambered up on to a plant pot for a better view.
From that vantage point I saw stunning views of the river – I could just imagine waking up here on a summer’s morning, throwing open the French doors and starting my day watching the river come to life with birds, insects and the occasional rowing crew all passing by. Stood there on the terrace I took a moment to reflect on the beauty of the city laid out before me then I reluctantly turned my back on the river and started my descent back through this charming home.
Before I left 2 Clayton Court I further inspected the outside space and was delighted to find a private courtyard that was accessible only to the residents of Clayton Court – that made it feel very special, rather like a secret garden! I also found a single garage and an additional parking space – how fabulous to find a period property, within the city walls, and with accommodation for not one but two vehicles. To seal the deal as the perfect city dwelling 2 Clayton Court also has a private gate which leads straight onto the city walls – what a treat to be able to access the walls straight from home! This idyllic townhouse really is an exceptional city residence that oozes charm, style and individuality. If this Georgian gem has piqued your interest, please do not hesitate to contact myself or one of my team on 01244 322322 or info@rickittpartnership.co.uk to arrange a viewing.
Until next time
Love Ralph X
