A substantial listed Georgian house set in extensive grounds, paddocks and private woodland.

Description

Tofts is situated in the village of Little Baddow, which is surrounded by Essex Wildlife Trust woods and heathland. It is a thriving village, with a very highly thought of preparatory school (Elm Green), a village hall, two long established churches and two public houses (The Generals Arms and The Rodney). It also has its own sports ground and clubhouse which is home to a local cricket club in the summer months.

Significant and architecturally distinguished, Grade II listed country house surrounded by its own gardens, grounds, paddocks, and woodland. The house dates back to 1815 with earlier origins and an extract from its listing states: "An early C19 grey gault brick house. 3 storeys. 3 window range on the west front. The north front has a large brink splayed bay rising through storeys. The windows are double-hung sashes with glazing bars in plain reveals. The windows in the bay are without glazing bars and the ground storey has French casements. A central 'Tuscan' porch projects on the west front with plain columns, ornamental frieze and cornice."

The house is mentioned in the Doomsday Book and was owned by the Tuftes family up until the middle of the 15th century. It was substantially rebuilt by General Strutt circa 1815 after being one of the last manorial courts. The rear of the house is part of the older building dating back to Tudor times with a peg-tiled roof and exposed beams and studwork. The house is notable architecturally and dominates its elevated situation rising some three storeys in height.

Enjoying beautifully proportioned reception rooms with high ceilings and fireplaces associated with the Georgian period which also includes deep windows with French casements and wooden shutters. This also contrasts with the older part of the house to the rear with attractive exposed beams typical of the Tudor period. Overlooking the gardens and paddocks is the custom-built Aga kitchen by Mark Wilkinson. The older part lies to the rear of the house and provides for a cosy sitting room with fireplace and log burner. A more recent addition is an orangery which overlooks the swimming pool. There are four first floor bedrooms with a spacious landing lit by a cupola, providing an interesting focal point at the centre of the house. On the second floor are four further bedrooms all serviced by four bathrooms, three of which are en suite.

The house is approached over a long drive passing the paddocks and woodland. Behind the house are good parking facilities in front of the detached two-bay cart lodge garage with adjoining double lockup secure garage or tractor store. Immediately adjacent is a fenced dog compound and the other side the oil storage tank. There are fine views from the front gardens over the paddocks. Continuing to the south are the formal gardens with gently sloping lawns which include a line of mature oak trees. Immediately behind the house is a sunken paved garden ideal for al fresco dining and this immediately adjoins the in-ground swimming pool and octagonal summer house. On the opposite side of the house lies a further area of gently sloping lawns incorporating mature island beds, a dell and a natural pond. Beyond lie the vegetable plots and composting area. In front of the house are the post and rail paddocks which extend right the way down to Tofts Chase having a field gate from the lane directly into the paddocks. They include a large field shelter and are serviced by a detached stable block with four stables and a hard surfaced courtyard in front. The property has its own private woodland ituated to the west, containing many broadleaf trees, a carpet of spring bulbs and a stream. Immediately adjoining the grounds are bridleways that take you into Woodham Walter Common and Blakes Wood and beyond, offering miles of bridleways for the horse rider to enjoy.

The land in all extends to about 17.03 acres.

Services: Mains water, electricity. Private drainage. Oil-fired central heating.

Agents Notes
(1) There are two title deeds that form the sale EX608318 (house) EX699054 (land). There is an overage clause on the land. Please request details of the titles which also contain some historic and factual information.

(2) The septic tank drainage is located (with easements) on the neighbouring property. It will require updating to comply with the 2020 regulations.

(3) There is a public footpath crossing part of the paddock land.

Location

Tofts is situated in the village of Little Baddow, which is surrounded by Essex Wildlife Trust woods and heathland. It is a thriving village, with a very highly thought of preparatory school (Elm Green), a village hall, two long established churches and two public houses (The Generals Arms and The Rodney). It also has its own sports ground and clubhouse which is home to a local cricket club in the summer months.

Nearby Danbury village offers an extensive range of local shops, amenities and schools (including the Heathcote Preparatory School and nursery) and there is good road access to the Sandon Park and Ride for direct bus routes into Chelmsford city centre and beyond. Chelmsford City provides an excellent choice of facilities including a bustling shopping centre, access onto the A12 and a station on the main line into Liverpool Street. The village of Hatfield Peverel (2.5 miles away) is also on the main line and offers commuters an alternative choice of station. To the south, Shenfield and Brentwood have Elizabeth Line rail services. Tofts Chase is designated a protected lane and provides a beautiful approach. The area is crossed with footpaths and bridleways linking the National Trust wood and heathlands within the surrounding countryside. One of the most scenic walks in the area runs from Tofts Chase to Papermill Lock, a picturesque inland waterway on the Chelmer and Blackwater navigation. There is a great choice of highly regarded schools at Chelmsford and beyond including New Hall, CCHS, KEGS and Felsted.

Square Footage: 7,125 sq ft


Acreage: 17.03 Acres

Directions

From Chelmsford Army & Navy roundabout, proceed east on the A414 taking the first exit signposted to Danbury. Continue on the A414 until the centre of Danbury village. At the roundabout turn left passing the village green on the right hand side towards Little Baddow. Continue through Little Baddow and proceed down North Hill taking the turning on the right hand side into Tofts Chase. Proceed for 0.25 of a mile turning right into the drive which leads to the front of the house and garaging.

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Postcode: CM3 4BX