Somehow set both within the city of Chelmsford and its own naturally landscaped mature grounds (which extend to some four acres) Grade II-listed Barnes Mill and Mill House is that rare, yet oh-so-desired, thing: rus in urbe.
This beautifully converted property, consisting of the 4,360sq ft Barnes Mill and the adjoining 2,500sq ft Mill House, offers a total of eight bedrooms (four in each) in an exceptional riverside setting at the end of a quiet no-through road.
Originally dating from about 1700, the buildings have been sensibly restored and renovated by the current owners, who have lived in the property for the past 24 years, and now provides the comforts of modern living set in a property of immense period character.
The mill was converted into a house in 1975 with the great spur wheel and ‘shut’ visible within the property today.
The gardens and grounds are nice and private, featuring two mill ponds and double-bank fishing on the River Chelmer, plus very easy access to the surrounding countryside for walks — all within five minutes’ drive from Chelmsford railway station and London beyond.
Trains run to London Liverpool Street every 15 minutes whilst driving takes about 40-50 minutes.
With Chelmsford city centre just over a mile away, you have access to a huge variety of leisure and shopping facilities with big name department stores, cinemas and restaurants; but really, it’s the joy of retreating back to a property like this which makes it so appealing.
Barnes Mill and Mill House are currently on the market via Jackson-Stops with a guide price of £2.85 million — see more pictures or enquire with the agent for further details.
Credit: Strutt and Parker
Best country houses for sale this week
An irresistible West Country cottage and a magnificent Cumbrian country house make our pick of the finest country houses for
-
(Space) oddities: New David Bowie centre opens at V&A East StorehouseThe museum will house and display the largest collection of the artist's costumes, musical instruments, set models, props and more.
-
Interiors of excellence: all the events and inspiration you can't missOver the next month, events at the Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour and beyond will offer plenty of inspiration for design lovers
-
Medieval Italian? 19th century French? 16th century German? You're spoilt for choice if you're looking to buy a gorgeous continental castleFrom hills of Italy to a Bavarian palace, Toby Keel takes a look at three of the finest castles for sale across Europe today.
-
How to buy a house at auctionBuying at auction can mean you secure your dream property for a bargain price, but preparation is the key
-
The homes of two 1980s TV icons are both up for sale at the same timeThe houses where Bob Monkhouse and Sir Terry Wogan spent decades of their lives are currently on the market. Annabel Dixon takes a look.
-
Living on the edge? A lighthouse for sale on a clifftop on one of the most remote islands in BritainBressay Lighthouse was built by the father and uncle of the 'Treasure Island' author.
-
Alan Titchmarsh is selling his Hampshire home (and the garden that comes with it): Exclusive pictures and interviewAfter many happy years in Hampshire, the writer, broadcaster and national treasure Alan Titchmarsh is selling up and looking to move. He spoke to Penny Churchill about his years at Manor Farm House.
-
A Lake District escape with views that will make you feel like the king of all you can seeMellguards's many guest rooms and dual staircases make this property perfect for people who love to host, but tire of their guests quickly.
-
One of Yorkshire's great houses, burnt to the ground three generations ago, is back on its feet and on the market for the sixth time in a millenniumPenny Churchill looks at Riseborough Hall, a great house, rich with fascinating history and beautifully apportioned, which burnt to the ground but rose again.
-
Seven magnificent homes from Cumbria to Devon, as seen in Country LifeOur regular look at the best homes to come to the market via Country Life in the past few weeks takes in a breathtaking Lake District house and a superb home in Northamptonshire.
