09:30AM, Monday 18 August 2025
OAKDENE, a bright and generously proportioned detached chalet home in the heart of Upper Basildon, has served Charles and Stephanie Crosbie well for more than a decade.
The couple moved in back in 2014, drawn by the property’s well-thought-out layout, its south-facing garden and its proximity to both local amenities and surrounding countryside.
As they prepare to downsize to a new build in Wallingford for health-related reasons, Oakdene is ready to begin its next chapter — one that could suit a growing family, remote-working professionals, or downsizers seeking comfort and flexibility.
Originally a modest two-bedroom cottage set within farmland, Oakdene was significantly extended by previous owners into a
four- or five-bedroom detached property, now offering more than 2,000 sq ft of living space, including a detached garage.
The Crosbies made their own improvements after moving in, including redecorating throughout and re-laying the patio to make the most of the garden’s sunny aspect.
Oakdene is approached via a spacious paved driveway capable of accommodating four to five vehicles, leading to a detached garage. Inside, the entrance hall opens into a bright ground floor where the family room and a fourth bedroom or study benefit from large bay windows and front garden views.
Also on the ground floor is a shower-equipped cloakroom, providing ideal accommodation for guests or elderly family members who may prefer to avoid stairs.
There is an extended kitchen and breakfast room, complete with fitted units and integrated appliances, leading into a dining area with French doors opening on to the garden terrace. The sitting and dining room also features a fireplace and a second set of French doors, creating an easy indoor-outdoor flow and lovely views of the garden.
Upstairs, the main bedroom spans almost 20ft and includes three windows that frame open views across neighbouring fields. Fitted Sharps wardrobes and an en suite with dual sinks complete the master suite.
Two additional bedrooms also feature built-in storage and are served by a family bathroom with both bath and separate shower. There is also loft access from the landing via a pull-down ladder — the space is boarded, providing useful extra storage. Outside, the garden is level and enclosed, designed with both children and dogs in mind. It has been dog-proofed and planted with established shrubs and flower borders to create a colourful, private retreat that can be enjoyed throughout the seasons.
The setting is another of Oakdene’s strengths. Located just off Pangbourne Road, the house sits within easy reach of Upper Basildon’s key amenities. These include a parish church, a community Post Office and a highly-regarded primary school.
The village’s rebuilt village hall offers sports facilities and social events for residents of all ages, while a limited bus service connects Upper Basildon with Pangbourne. From there, London Paddington can be reached in under an hour by rail.
Bradfield College, located just a few miles away, has leisure facilities, including a pool, squash and tennis courts and a golf course, open to members of the public. Families considering schooling options will find Upper Basildon particularly appealing thanks to its access to a number of renowned institutions including Pangbourne College, Downe House, and The Downs School in Compton.
l Oakdene has a guide price of £795,000, freehold. For more information and to arrange a viewing, call Warmingham & Co on (01491) 874144.
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