Historic church on Burford High Street goes on sale

Burford Methodist Church is for sale for offers above £650,000.

The Grade II listed building is in a prominent position on Burford High Street "and offers a unique development opportunity in the heart of the town", said property consultancy Fisher German.

Dating back to the 1700s, it was originally built as a grand mansion house in the Baroque style before being converted into a chapel in 1849.

The interior was redesigned in 1949 by well-known Oxford architect Thomas Rayson, with inspiration taken from London-based church St Stephen Walbrook.

The main internal space comprises of four Corinthian columns supporting a canopy with a chandelier and significant attic space above.

There are also two additional rooms at the rear of the building as well as a large basement floor containing a hall and further rooms.

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The small cemetery at the back of the property can either be made available via a 999-year lease with a peppercorn rent or can be retained by West Oxfordshire Methodist Circuit.

The property "has the potential for a number of alternative uses including conversion to residential or commercial uses including hospitality, education and healthcare, subject to obtaining the necessary planning approval", said the agents.

Partner at Fisher German Matthew Allen said: “Burford Methodist Church is unique in that it was a former manor house that was converted into a church later in its life.

"It has a striking façade that truly makes it stand out on Burford’s high street.

“Subject to planning permission, there are all sorts of possibilities for redevelopment.

"The property could be turned into a stunning single dwelling, high-end apartments, or a stylish bar or restaurant.

“It has a wealth of potential and opportunities to buy a property like this in the Cotswolds are incredibly rare, so we would encourage anyone interested to get in touch soon.”