Floorplans (
Map5 bedroom detached house
Premium display
Study
Sold STC
Detached house
5 beds
3 baths
21.00 acre(s)
Key information
Tenure: Freehold
Service charge: £0 per annum
Council tax: Band H
Broadband: Super-fast 64Mbps *
Mobile signal:
EEO2ThreeVodafone
Features and description
- Fine Grade I listed medieval house
- Extensive collection of period buildings including former Abbots’ lodging
- Private guest house, chapel and cloister
- Excellent range of equestrian facilities
- Beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds extending to about 25 acres
- Discreetly set on the edge of the picturesque market town of Coggeshall
Small historic estate full of charm and character resting on the banks of the River Blackwater.
Description
Situated on the River Blackwater, Coggeshall Abbey is an outstanding Grade I listed Tudor country house with a vast range of period outbuildings, occupying a tranquil position on the edge of the picturesque market town of Coggeshall.
In total The Abbey has six bedrooms providing family and guest accommodation split across the main house and an adjoining one bedroom cottage; a former monk's lodgings. There are several other buildings including a delightful entertaining barn/guest house providing immense charm and character and a consecrated private chapel; one of the oldest buildings on site believed to date back to 1162. There are two substantial Essex barns and extensive stabling set around a central courtyard, with direct access to a manege. The gardens and grounds are truly stunning with structured formal gardens extending from the north of the house, nestled on the banks of the River Blackwater with a nature trail winding through extensive woodland and heathland.
History
Founded in 1162 by King Stephen of England and Matilda de Boulogne as a Savignac religious house, Coggeshall abbey has a fascinating history, with Edward II holding court at The Abbey in 1325. Although work commenced under the authority of the Savignacs, this order collapsed in 1147. The Abbey, however, continued to prosper and the site achieved a position of considerable influence in the region during the four centuries between its foundation and suppression, in the 16th century.
The Abbey reinstated its position within the community as a result of the local wool trade, acquiring various lands and rights through both royal and local grants.
In 1581 Anne Paycocke, granddaughter of Thomas Paycocke, a successful businessman who made his fortune through manufacture of woollen cloth, acquired a crown lease on the Abbey and set about restoring the building adding many fine period detailing. The property was then sold to the Guyon family, another successful wool merchants of the time; and the most recent owners were the Hanlee family who have lovingly continued restoring the buildings, revealing exceptionally rare period detailing which has been carefully preserved. Further information of the extensive works are available upon request.
About this property
The principal house still displays many of its earlier features, including 16th century chimney stacks, oriel windows and the west porch. Of particular importance is the sophisticated use of brick during all stages of the property's construction. It has been argued that the primary building phases represent the earliest use of purpose-made brick in medieval England, and are therefore of outstanding historical and archaeological interest, listed as Grade I.
The house is grand in scale and character, providing balanced accommodation designed over two levels. There is a magnificent Great Hall with access and views over the north-facing lawn. Ornate wood panelling features heavily and can be found throughout this exceptional building, alongside ornate stone arches and some remarkable timbers. There is a family room, dining room and library with access to a beautifully appointed kitchen enjoying picturesque waterside views. There is a practical utility room and cloakroom. The first floor accommodation is equally as charming with five bedrooms and three bathrooms. All of the rooms are orientated making the most of the delightful setting with panoramic rural views. To the south of the house is the most beautiful, light-filled study opening to the cloisters linking the former monks' dormitory, now configured as a one bedroom, self-contained cottage.
The upper floor of this part of the building is accessed externally, retains vestiges of painted wall plaster and provides an enchanting 'L' shaped entertaining space. A detached rectangular building stands a few metres south of the cottage, orientated northeast-southwest in line with the river. This is considered to be the Abbey guest house. The building is grand in scale and, although tall enough for two storeys, only contains one and provides a unique space for a variety of different uses.
The equestrian facilities are to the south and southwest comprising a collection of barns providing further scope for development, 18 stables, tack room and storage facilities.
Outside
The gardens provide a wonderful extension to the house, full of colour and interest, resting on the banks of the River Blackwater. The majority of the formal gardens extend from the north of the house and are principally laid to lawn with a manicured avenue of common yew trees. A variety of specimen trees scatter the lawn including eucalyptus, wild cherry, beech and lime providing a wonderful sense of peace and tranquility. There is also a swimming pool and changing facilities requiring restoration with part of the grounds planted as woodland, providing a haven for nature and wildlife. A path leads alongside the river and the monks' stew ponds which extend over a distance of approximately 140 metres, within the narrow strip of land between the canalised River Blackwater and a smaller channel called the 'Back Ditch'.A bridge connects the different areas of the gardens and grounds. To the west of the house, situated near the stables and manège, are several paddocks, ideal for those with an equestrian interest.
A more intimate garden can be found to the rear of the kitchen opening to the cloisters, providing a truly delightful space for entertaining and relaxing, with panoramic views over the river.
All in about 21 acres.
Location
A120 access: 0.5 miles; Kelvedon: 3 miles (Liverpool Street from 51 minutes); Colchester: 10 miles; Chelmsford: 17 miles. Stansted Airport: 22 miles; Central London: 60 miles. All distances approximate.
Local information
Coggeshall Abbey occupies a wonderful position at the end of a private 500 metre drive serving a small cluster of homes, and The Chapel of St. Nicholas, a rectangular-shaped building believed to have been originally constructed in perhaps the earliest post-Roman brick in England.
The property is situated 0.9 of a mile south of the centre of Coggeshall which is a picturesque medieval market town full of charm and character, nestled between the historic towns of Braintree and Colchester. Coggeshall has an attractive centre made up of many period and listed buildings, unspoilt with easy accessibility to London. The town has a super market, family butcher and a good selection of independent shops, coffee houses and restaurants. Coggeshall enjoys a strong and active local community, with a food market most weeks selling local produce.
The immediate area surrounding The Abbey provides miles of open countryside offering a broad range of leisure pursuits and a network of footpaths providing delightful countryside and river walks.
The town is well placed for excellent educational facilities, both private and state, with primary and secondary education and grammar schools in Chelmsford and Colchester, as well as Gosfield, New Hall and Felsted.
For the commuter there is a train station at Kelvedon (approx. 7 minute drive) and Witham (approx. 18 minute drive) providing a frequent service into London Liverpool Street. Further afield is Crossrail which can be accessed from Shenfield (approx. 45 minute drive) with access to 40 stations including Reading and Heathrow Airport. By road there are access points onto the A12 at Kelvedon and onto the A120 to the north of the town, which is a dual carriageway from Braintree linking to the M11/M25 and beyond.
Square Footage: 4,481 sq ft
Acreage: 21 Acres
Directions
From Chelmsford proceed north on the A12 turning off at junction 23 (Kelvedon). Continue through Kelvedon, turning left just before the bridge onto the B1024. Proceed through Coggeshall Hamlet and upon entering the village of Coggeshall, Abbey Lane can be seen on the right- hand side. The Abbey is discreetly set at the very end of the Lane.
Postcode: CO6 1RD
What3Words: adventure.objective.restore
Additional Info
Services: Mains electricity. Private drainage. Oil-fired heating. Private water source from underground water lakes.
Rights of Way: There is a public footpath which runs along the drive, through the courtyard farmyard.
Local authority: Braintree District Council. Council tax band = H.
Description
Situated on the River Blackwater, Coggeshall Abbey is an outstanding Grade I listed Tudor country house with a vast range of period outbuildings, occupying a tranquil position on the edge of the picturesque market town of Coggeshall.
In total The Abbey has six bedrooms providing family and guest accommodation split across the main house and an adjoining one bedroom cottage; a former monk's lodgings. There are several other buildings including a delightful entertaining barn/guest house providing immense charm and character and a consecrated private chapel; one of the oldest buildings on site believed to date back to 1162. There are two substantial Essex barns and extensive stabling set around a central courtyard, with direct access to a manege. The gardens and grounds are truly stunning with structured formal gardens extending from the north of the house, nestled on the banks of the River Blackwater with a nature trail winding through extensive woodland and heathland.
History
Founded in 1162 by King Stephen of England and Matilda de Boulogne as a Savignac religious house, Coggeshall abbey has a fascinating history, with Edward II holding court at The Abbey in 1325. Although work commenced under the authority of the Savignacs, this order collapsed in 1147. The Abbey, however, continued to prosper and the site achieved a position of considerable influence in the region during the four centuries between its foundation and suppression, in the 16th century.
The Abbey reinstated its position within the community as a result of the local wool trade, acquiring various lands and rights through both royal and local grants.
In 1581 Anne Paycocke, granddaughter of Thomas Paycocke, a successful businessman who made his fortune through manufacture of woollen cloth, acquired a crown lease on the Abbey and set about restoring the building adding many fine period detailing. The property was then sold to the Guyon family, another successful wool merchants of the time; and the most recent owners were the Hanlee family who have lovingly continued restoring the buildings, revealing exceptionally rare period detailing which has been carefully preserved. Further information of the extensive works are available upon request.
About this property
The principal house still displays many of its earlier features, including 16th century chimney stacks, oriel windows and the west porch. Of particular importance is the sophisticated use of brick during all stages of the property's construction. It has been argued that the primary building phases represent the earliest use of purpose-made brick in medieval England, and are therefore of outstanding historical and archaeological interest, listed as Grade I.
The house is grand in scale and character, providing balanced accommodation designed over two levels. There is a magnificent Great Hall with access and views over the north-facing lawn. Ornate wood panelling features heavily and can be found throughout this exceptional building, alongside ornate stone arches and some remarkable timbers. There is a family room, dining room and library with access to a beautifully appointed kitchen enjoying picturesque waterside views. There is a practical utility room and cloakroom. The first floor accommodation is equally as charming with five bedrooms and three bathrooms. All of the rooms are orientated making the most of the delightful setting with panoramic rural views. To the south of the house is the most beautiful, light-filled study opening to the cloisters linking the former monks' dormitory, now configured as a one bedroom, self-contained cottage.
The upper floor of this part of the building is accessed externally, retains vestiges of painted wall plaster and provides an enchanting 'L' shaped entertaining space. A detached rectangular building stands a few metres south of the cottage, orientated northeast-southwest in line with the river. This is considered to be the Abbey guest house. The building is grand in scale and, although tall enough for two storeys, only contains one and provides a unique space for a variety of different uses.
The equestrian facilities are to the south and southwest comprising a collection of barns providing further scope for development, 18 stables, tack room and storage facilities.
Outside
The gardens provide a wonderful extension to the house, full of colour and interest, resting on the banks of the River Blackwater. The majority of the formal gardens extend from the north of the house and are principally laid to lawn with a manicured avenue of common yew trees. A variety of specimen trees scatter the lawn including eucalyptus, wild cherry, beech and lime providing a wonderful sense of peace and tranquility. There is also a swimming pool and changing facilities requiring restoration with part of the grounds planted as woodland, providing a haven for nature and wildlife. A path leads alongside the river and the monks' stew ponds which extend over a distance of approximately 140 metres, within the narrow strip of land between the canalised River Blackwater and a smaller channel called the 'Back Ditch'.A bridge connects the different areas of the gardens and grounds. To the west of the house, situated near the stables and manège, are several paddocks, ideal for those with an equestrian interest.
A more intimate garden can be found to the rear of the kitchen opening to the cloisters, providing a truly delightful space for entertaining and relaxing, with panoramic views over the river.
All in about 21 acres.
Location
A120 access: 0.5 miles; Kelvedon: 3 miles (Liverpool Street from 51 minutes); Colchester: 10 miles; Chelmsford: 17 miles. Stansted Airport: 22 miles; Central London: 60 miles. All distances approximate.
Local information
Coggeshall Abbey occupies a wonderful position at the end of a private 500 metre drive serving a small cluster of homes, and The Chapel of St. Nicholas, a rectangular-shaped building believed to have been originally constructed in perhaps the earliest post-Roman brick in England.
The property is situated 0.9 of a mile south of the centre of Coggeshall which is a picturesque medieval market town full of charm and character, nestled between the historic towns of Braintree and Colchester. Coggeshall has an attractive centre made up of many period and listed buildings, unspoilt with easy accessibility to London. The town has a super market, family butcher and a good selection of independent shops, coffee houses and restaurants. Coggeshall enjoys a strong and active local community, with a food market most weeks selling local produce.
The immediate area surrounding The Abbey provides miles of open countryside offering a broad range of leisure pursuits and a network of footpaths providing delightful countryside and river walks.
The town is well placed for excellent educational facilities, both private and state, with primary and secondary education and grammar schools in Chelmsford and Colchester, as well as Gosfield, New Hall and Felsted.
For the commuter there is a train station at Kelvedon (approx. 7 minute drive) and Witham (approx. 18 minute drive) providing a frequent service into London Liverpool Street. Further afield is Crossrail which can be accessed from Shenfield (approx. 45 minute drive) with access to 40 stations including Reading and Heathrow Airport. By road there are access points onto the A12 at Kelvedon and onto the A120 to the north of the town, which is a dual carriageway from Braintree linking to the M11/M25 and beyond.
Square Footage: 4,481 sq ft
Acreage: 21 Acres
Directions
From Chelmsford proceed north on the A12 turning off at junction 23 (Kelvedon). Continue through Kelvedon, turning left just before the bridge onto the B1024. Proceed through Coggeshall Hamlet and upon entering the village of Coggeshall, Abbey Lane can be seen on the right- hand side. The Abbey is discreetly set at the very end of the Lane.
Postcode: CO6 1RD
What3Words: adventure.objective.restore
Additional Info
Services: Mains electricity. Private drainage. Oil-fired heating. Private water source from underground water lakes.
Rights of Way: There is a public footpath which runs along the drive, through the courtyard farmyard.
Local authority: Braintree District Council. Council tax band = H.
About this agent
Savills has been a trusted part of the Chelmsford community since our predecessors began trading locally in 1957. Many members of our team of estate agents have been based here for many years, with each offering thoughtful, honest and creative advice, backed by industry-leading research teams. Much of our work involves buying and selling residential, agricultural and commercial property, in which our team has more than a century of combined experience. We work with Savills London offices to smooth the transition of clients from the capital to pastures new across Essex, as families look for an increased quality of life. Most visited website Savills.co.uk is the most visited UK national estate agency website, averaging over 2.4 million visits a month in 2020, and recording over 3.1 million visits in January 2021. Global exposure Our site is available in 22 languages including English, Chinese, Spanish and Russian. This guarantees your property will have the global exposure it deserves as well as providing access to more buyers via our website. Put simply, because we get more qualified visits, you get more opportunities to sell.