A stunning former rectory situated in the delightful village of Birch.

Description

The Old Rectory is a stunning family home providing beautifully presented interiors and a meticulously landscaped garden situated in the conservation area of this attractive north Essex village. It commands a delightful position within its plot, set back from the lane, with a garden bustling with colour and interest, totalling around 0.5 of an acre.

The house, which enjoys well balanced and light-filled accommodation, has undergone a thorough programme of restoration and enlargement incorporating high quality fittings and bespoke features. The accommodation has been thoughtfully designed for family living with five first floor bedrooms and four generous reception rooms to the ground floor. A modern kitchen/family room of open-plan design leads to the garden providing a wonderful extension of this special home.

The property is entered from the front into a small lobby opening to a bright and welcoming reception hall with a turning staircase leading to the first floor, and storage below. To the front corner of the house is a delightful snug with a cast-iron wood-burning stove and light oak parquet flooring which features throughout the ground floor accommodation.

There are two further reception rooms which extend across the rear of the house, enjoying an easterly aspect with views over the stunning gardens and countryside beyond. Both rooms have feature fireplaces and bespoke timber folding doors which connect the rooms allowing a wonderful social space for family life and entertaining.

The kitchen/breakfast room is simply stunning and forms the heart of the house, situated on the easterly aspect, overlooking the garden. It is extensively fitted with a range of light-coloured units and composite worktops, and has a large island unit with a breakfast bar. There is a range of integral appliances and attractive porcelain floor tiles with underfloor heating. Beside the kitchen is a separate and fitted pantry to match the kitchen. Beyond the kitchen is a good sized utility and boot room with separate access to the front and rear of the property.

The remainder of the ground floor comprises a cloakroom and a charming study of 'L' shaped design with a vaulted ceiling and access to the garden, making this a superb work-from-home space.

The first floor is equally as charming offering five bedrooms and a family bathroom accessed from a central landing. All of the bedrooms enjoy fitted wardrobes with two of the rooms providing en suite facilities. Three of the rooms are situated on the eastern side benefitting from far-reaching countryside views.

Outside
The gardens are an exceptional feature of the property being laid principally to lawn with established borders comprising a wide variety of plants and shrubs, creating colour and all-year-round interest.

A wide terrace extends across the entire back of the house with a delightful stream-effect water feature and neatly cut paths lead to several other private seating areas. To the side of the garden is a bespoke, traditional, brick and flint built wall and an area of shingle opening to a herb garden. The walls are a beautiful feature at night as they are lit - digital and app controlled. Beyond is a Victorian-style summer house offering a wonderful place to sit with views over the entire garden.

To the front, a sweeping gated drive leads to a detached double garage of pitched roof design, and a further expanse of lawn with established borders providing a natural barrier from the lane. To the corner is a Victorian-style Alitex greenhouse maximising the full potential of the plot, along with a bespoke garden shed.

Services
Mains water, electricity and drainage. Solid fuel heating. Radiators and underfloor heating.

Location

Marks Tey Train Station: 4.2 miles, Colchester: 6.1 miles, Kelvedon train station: 7.4 miles, Chelmsford: 21.2 miles, Ipswich: 23.3 miles, Stansted Airport: 30.5 miles. All distances approximate.

The property is located in a conservation area on the north side of the village of Birch.

Birch is a pretty village benefiting from a strong local community, general store, primary school and public house. The village is surrounded by open countryside providing a network of footpaths with access to miles of delightful walks. The property is located close to the former Norman motte and bailey castle and parish church.

Excellent schools for all age groups are available in Colchester - Colchester Royal Grammar School, Colchester County High School for Girls, Holmwood House, Colchester High School and St Mary’s girls’ school.

This location is ideal for the A12, mainline railway station at Marks Tey, Colchester or Kelvedon and out-of-town shopping facilities at Tollgate, Colchester.

Square Footage: 2,810 sq ft



Directions

From Colchester proceed on the B1022 towards Maldon and take the turning signposted to Birch and Layer Breton on the left-hand side. Proceed for approximately 0.5 of a mile passing St Peter’s Church on the left and primary school directly opposite on the right. Continue to the top of the hill where The Old Rectory is located on the left.

Postcode: CO2 0NA

Additional Info

Local authority: Colchester Borough Council. Council tax band = G (with improvement indicator).