Have you ever dreamed of living in a historic mansion with lavish interiors, expansive gardens, and a rich past? Batheaston House, a £4.25 million Grade II-listed Queen Anne mansion just outside Bath, could make that dream come true.
The property, with its soaring ceilings, luxurious bedrooms, and beautiful views of the River Avon, might look perfect in glossy photos, but is it truly the dream home it appears to be?
A Glimpse Into Batheaston House
When you visit Batheaston House, the first thing that might surprise you is its location.
While the professional advertisements give the impression that the mansion is nestled in sprawling countryside, the reality is a bit different.
The house is situated on the High Street, behind a stone wall, and although the gardens are expansive, they have a public footpath running along their edge.
This footpath allows passersby an unobstructed view of the grounds, which could be less than ideal for someone seeking privacy.
Additionally, the property faces a busy road where heavy vehicles and buses frequently rumble past, creating vibrations that could shake items off shelves.
This may not be the idyllic, peaceful retreat that some prospective buyers might envision.
Flooding Risks and Running Costs
Another factor to consider is the potential for flooding.
Recent storms, including Storm Bert, have caused nearby fields to flood, and parts of the footpath near the house were submerged during our visit.
While the house is undeniably beautiful, this is something that future owners might want to keep in mind when evaluating the property.
There’s also the matter of the running costs.
Experts estimate that maintaining Batheaston House could cost as much as £50,000 a year.
This includes regular maintenance, such as repairs to the roof or the upkeep of the grounds, and essential services like heating and cleaning.
For anyone considering making this mansion their own, these ongoing expenses could add significant pressure to the financial commitment.
Omaze’s Prize Draw – Is It Too Good to Be True?
This grand property could soon be yours if you enter Omaze’s prize draw.
Since its UK launch in 2020, Omaze has gained attention by giving away luxurious homes through a sweepstake model.
Each month, Omaze offers a stunning home as its grand prize, and Batheaston House is the latest on offer.
The draw benefits the British Heart Foundation, with Omaze pledging to raise at least £1 million for the charity.
While the house itself may be a dream come true, some entrants have raised concerns about the risks of winning a property through Omaze.
The so-called “curse of Omaze” has become a talking point online, with some questioning the state of the houses once they are handed over to the winners.
Issues such as poor building work, flood risks, and properties that may not live up to the promotional materials have been cited by some past winners.
A Rich History Behind Batheaston House
Built in 1712, Batheaston House is steeped in history.
Originally owned by Sir John Harington, the inventor of the flushing toilet, it was later passed through the hands of various royal connections, including Princess Beatrice, Queen Victoria’s daughter.
The house was restored in the 1960s and, after several owners, it became available for purchase again in 2023.
Unlike some modern properties given away by Omaze, Batheaston House is filled with character, from its baroque-style windows to the intricate details throughout the building.
However, it’s important to note that this historical charm also comes with some limitations.
The property is a Grade II-listed building, meaning any renovations or repairs must adhere to strict regulations, potentially adding extra costs and complications.
Community Concerns and Property Challenges
While the house itself is undoubtedly impressive, the surrounding community has mixed feelings about the potential winner.
Some, like retired businessman John Lawrence, hope the new owner will become an active part of the village.
Others, however, fear that the mansion may end up as another short-term rental or even back on the market if the new owner sees it as a quick profit rather than a long-term home.
Omaze winners have historically faced challenges when it comes to maintaining such a grand home.
Many winners end up selling or renting out their properties, as the costs associated with upkeep can be daunting.
Moreover, some experts warn that renting out a mansion like Batheaston House could impact the local community, with an influx of short-term visitors potentially disrupting the area’s close-knit atmosphere.
What Are the Odds?
If you’re considering entering the Omaze draw, you might wonder what your chances are of winning Batheaston House.
While Omaze doesn’t officially disclose the odds, estimates based on the entry costs suggest that they range between 1 in 8.9 million and 1 in 12.5 million.
While these numbers may seem slim, they’re still far better than the odds of winning the UK National Lottery or EuroMillions.
For just £10, you could potentially walk away with a multi-million-pound property.
However, keep in mind that owning such a property comes with its own set of challenges.
The glamour of living in a mansion can quickly fade when faced with hefty maintenance bills and the realities of managing a historic property.
Final Thoughts on Batheaston House
Batheaston House is a stunning property with a rich history, but it’s not without its challenges.
From the potential for flooding to the significant running costs, prospective owners will need to carefully consider whether they’re ready to take on the financial and practical responsibilities that come with such a grand home.
While Omaze offers a rare opportunity to win this dream home, it’s important to understand the potential drawbacks and hidden costs that could make maintaining the property a far more difficult task than it first appears.
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