Back to News
29 May 2003
'The Hall', the much talked about country estate created by Countryside Properties in Wickham Bishops, Essex, has finally been completed and made available to view in its full 26-acre glory. Now, this magnificent new property has just been awarded the coveted prize of 'Best Luxury House' at the Evening Standard Awards, which was held at The Savoy in London.
"The timing has been fantastic," said Chris Crook, Managing Director of Countryside Properties' North Thames division. "This was a very special project for us, as we had a unique opportunity to create something quite spectacular set in 26 acres of private land. Detail was the key to the success of this significant project, so to win this award for our efforts, particularly in recognition of its quality, is very satisfying."
The Hall is an imposing residence which displays all the traditional credentials of an old historic country estate, including a gated entrance with a sweeping driveway up through the grounds to a spectacular Georgian style house. Its wings and triple garage have been designed in such a way to look as though it has evolved and been extended over the years.
Internally, the house is impressive yet understated. A grand entrance hall creates a powerful first impression, with a double height ceiling, open stone fireplace and a sweeping, handmade stone staircase leading up to a minstrel's gallery. Ten formal entertaining rooms and informal living rooms on the ground floor open onto courtyards and terraces to the front and rear of the house.
Maintaining authenticity and variety throughout, The Hall is full of surprises, with features such as a spiral stone staircase leading from the study down to a wine cellar below and numerous nooks and crannies leading to unexpected rooms, such as a dog room, a dry room and a library.
The Hall is exceptional, combining authentic classical features such as timber sash windows and high ceilings with modern luxuries. The separate leisure wing comprises an indoor swimming pool and also includes a spa pool and steam room, sauna and a substantial gym / function room with its own small kitchen for entertaining.
The master bedroom suite affords privacy and luxury, with its own sitting room and balcony overlooking the grounds, as well as its own separate dressing room and extravagant en-suite bathroom. A further four generously proportioned bedrooms all feature en-suite bathrooms, while the spacious self-contained flat above the leisure wing provides further living accommodation for staff or independent family members.
The Hall is the newest addition to the attractive village of Wickham Bishops in Essex, and is situated adjacent to the prestigious Benton Hall golf course. It is within three miles of the A12 between Chelmsford and Colchester, with direct road and rail links to the M25 and London, which is less than 50 miles away. Direct trains run from Witham BR station to London Liverpool Street (journey time approx. 45 minutes) and London Stansted airport is only 23 miles away (approx).
The Hall is available for sale through Hawksley Pearce, telephone: 01621 893 589 and Strutt and Parker, telephone: 01245 258 201 who are looking for offers in excess of £3.5 million.
Back to News
Information correct as at 29/05/2003