3 Bedroom House For Sale in Bathurst

Description

The Old Drostdy, one of Bathurst’s most significant heritage properties dating back to the 1820s, is now available for purchase. Originally intended to serve as the administrative centre of the Albany district for the newly arrived British Settlers, its foundation stone was laid with great ambition. However, when Lord Charles Somerset transferred the magistracy to Grahamstown on 8 February 1822, construction slowed, and the building remained incomplete for several years. By 1824, the partially finished structure had deteriorated, but once restored and completed, it became the residence of the Government Chaplain—considered grander than the pastorie of its time. The original 14-room building was constructed from locally fired brick and slate, and in 1827 its roof was rebuilt using imported Welsh slate—the first recorded use of this material in South Africa. Today, only one wing survives, now incorporated into a private residence. The current home retains its historic character with high ceilings, wooden floors, large sash windows, and generously proportioned rooms. It offers three bedrooms, three bathrooms , two lounges, a dining room, a spacious kitchen, and a wide wrap- around verandah that remains one of its most charming features. A modern library house stands to the right of the main residence, purpose-built to maintain a controlled temperature for book preservation. This double- volume structure includes a Roman bath, kitchenette, and an upstairs open-plan bedroom with two balconies overlooking the surrounding farmland. Floor-to-ceiling shelving lines the walls, creating a remarkable and versatile space that could easily be converted into an additional dwelling. A studio overlooks the swimming pool and fire pit, while behind the main house is a flatlet comprising a lounge/dining/kitchen area and an interleading en-suite bedroom. Additional storerooms and garaging for multiple vehicles provide excellent utility. To the east lies a separate cottage with its own road entrance—ideal for renovation into an income-generating unit. The property is serviced by Eskom as well as solar power and has a solar-equipped borehole. Set within expansive grounds that once formed a grand garden, the estate still exudes an unmistakable sense of history and elegance. Its scale and layout offer exceptional potential for a variety of uses—from a private homestead to a boutique hospitality venture, equestrian centre venture or heritage restoration project. For those who appreciate the craftsmanship of bygone eras and the stories held within historic walls, The Old Drostdy presents an extraordinary opportunity.