What brought you initially to the Cotswolds? 

I was born and bred in London, but my sister and I came to the Cotswolds whenever we could to spend weekends and holidays with my grandmother and aunt in Bourton-on-the-Hill who were both legendary women where we grew up with dogs, chickens and horses. It was a very different place, a lot quieter with a shop in most villages, no supermarkets and very traditional pubs. I then returned later in life and never left. 

How did you become involved in the property industry?

Quite by accident!  I had spent a lot of time abroad during my formative years and was eventually working in a completely different industry at the outset of the Internet in the 90’s. When I was deciding what to do next in life, I started showing houses. The rest is history…..

What aspect of your job do you enjoy the most?              

We are enormously fortunate to meet some wonderful people, who trust us with the sale of their beautiful properties. From cottages to village houses big and small, farmhouses to rectories, no day is ever the same. The closure of what has normally been a much-loved chapter for our clients and the start of a new and exciting one for the buyers, having done a good job, comes with the greatest satisfaction. 

 What has been your favourite house sale?

I think probably Mill Hill Farm in Sherborne possibly because it reminded me of my childhood in the Cotswolds. Originally owned by a fascinating family for over 40 years, it was one of the last untouched Cotswold houses with enormous character. A classic farmhouse full of colour and life with beautiful barns, all located in a romantic setting with water meadows and an ancient orchard. I spent hours there at every time of day and never grew tired of showing people round. Not everyone had the appetite to take it on, but they all fell in love with it. A complete gem. 

What do you like most about the Cotswolds, and which are your favourite places and why?

The Cotswolds is one of the most glorious parts of this country and one of reasons why this area has become so popular. I am always out with our dogs in every season either revisiting much loved corners of the countryside or discovering new vistas. I have loved walking in the Coln Valley recently which has a unique and beautiful landscape. Good food is a big part of my life, and we are spoilt for choice with places to eat. Just when you think you have had the best meal in the best pub, a new chef appears. The Lamb at Crawley, which has been renovated by Sebastian and Lana Snow offers an impressive menu which delivers, in a great atmosphere with a lovely team. Arguably the Cotswolds has changed dramatically even in the last 10 years but with change has come diversity. Local theatres, exhibitions, spas, festivals, opera and the iconic Giffords Circus, we are also lucky to have thriving towns including Cirencester, Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon within easy reach and if that’s not enough, I can be back in central London in an hour and a half.

For a free Market Appraisal, or any property advice, call Elizabeth D'Allemagne 01451 830731 elizabeth@butlersherborn.co.uk