Bolton's Old Ale House: A 16th-Century Restoration Journey
Bolton's Old Ale House, a 16th-century Grade II listed detached property in Tonge Fold, is undergoing a meticulous restoration. The Bolton News spoke with Sophie Stew and Marc Gough, who embarked on this ambitious project after purchasing the property in 2020. Sophie, originally from Kent, shared their love story with the house, which they discovered while searching for a home together.
The couple was captivated by the house's historical significance, despite limited information about its past. They learned that the Old Ale House, believed to have been built around 1580, was once the original Bowling Green pub. Sophie revealed that old maps indicated its use as a small public house and a potential passageway for animals to the abattoir.
Upon their initial viewing, the property was habitable, but the previous renovation didn't align with its historical essence. Sophie explained that the house was listed as a three-bedroom home, but the small size of one room made it unsuitable for family living. The couple's first step was to construct a summer house in the garden, collaborating with Neil Pike Architects from Bolton.
Sophie, a self-proclaimed perfectionist, designed the summer house, initially finding it challenging to find an architect who could bring her vision to life. She worked closely with the architect and the council to gain approval for the summer house, providing a habitable space while they planned the main house's renovation.
The summer house, completed in 2023, showcases eco-friendly materials, seamlessly blending modern living with the historic home. Designed in an L-shape, Sophie's goal was to maximize the garden's potential, featuring an outdoor deck area for enjoyment.
The main house underwent a double-storey extension, approved by the council with conditions, to enhance its functionality. The entire house was repointed using lime mortar, a meticulous process agreed upon with the council. This restoration allowed the house to 'breathe again,' as Sophie described it.
Sophie and Marc sought guidance from Alan McEwen, a local builder who had constructed his own home and was connected to Bolton through his friendship with Frederick Dibnah. Alan shared fascinating stories about the house's brickwork, including its historical significance as a resting place for witches.
The couple also acquired reclaimed iron radiators from a church, adding a unique touch to the Old Ale House. Alan provided valuable insights into the house's history, explaining the wear and tear of the stone and the presence of former right-footed residents wearing clogs.
Sophie expressed her love for the property, highlighting its stone staircase leading to the cellar, where beer was once brewed. They even uncovered an old cellar window, bringing it back to life as they strive to understand the house's history.
As the renovation progressed, Sophie and Marc moved out of the house, entering the 'strip-back' phase. Sophie explained that they were removing the gypsum plaster and returning the main house to its original brick structure. Marc, a dedicated worker, is currently stripping everything back, leaving the property with brick walls.
The couple has also removed the flooring, uncovering the original York stone floor. They discovered an additional fireplace in one of the main bedrooms and found some amusing DIY additions. The renovation work is expected to be completed soon, followed by the installation of wiring, plastering, and plumbing.
Sophie emphasized that the house will retain its original features while incorporating modern décor. They aim to embrace the house's history, including the original flooring, and create a harmonious living space.
The extension will be connected to the original building with a glass link, providing a seamless transition between the old and new. The downstairs area will feature an open-plan kitchen with garden access, promoting indoor-outdoor living. The upstairs extension will become a new master bedroom, enhancing the property's bedrooms.
The final renovation will result in three bedrooms, all with en-suites, and two reception rooms downstairs. Sophie envisions one of the reception rooms as a 'gentleman's lounge,' adorned with Chesterfield sofas and bookcases.
Sophie and Marc aim to return to the property within the next 24 months, eager to enjoy the space they've created. Their dedication to using skilled tradespeople and allowing ample time for proper renovation is commendable, as they continue to uncover the house's secrets room by room.
Sophie believes that the house will stand the test of time, serving Bolton long after them. She emphasizes the importance of enjoying, respecting, and preserving such historical properties, inviting readers to share any additional information about the Old Ale House via email.
