A thatched, pink cottage that was once the love nest of a Lord Mayor of London
James Fisher takes a look at a thatched home in Suffolk with a past as colourful as its paintwork.


Amid the topsy-turvy nature of the property market — and everything else — in 2020, one major trend emerged. That, of course, was the major rise in people looking to swap the city for the country.
Yet the instinct isn't really anything new; swapping an urban setting for a rural one has long been part of the British dream. Even as far back as the 15th century, the Lord Mayor of London fancied getting out of the capital: Sir Henry Barton built the Lord Mayor’s Cottage in Barton Mills, Suffolk. It's now for sale at £760,000 via Cheffins.
One thing Sir Henry didn't want to do, however, was bring his wife: the house was originally a love nest for the Mayor and his mistress — and with its pink walls and thatched roof, its romantic appeal is plain to see even half a millennium on.
The property is now a four-bedroom home with large landscaped gardens and river frontage (completed with fishing rights) on the River Lark.
The Grade II-listed semi-thatched building offers plenty of rural charm for those looking to escape the steel and concrete of the city, with a modern oak-framed conservatory being one of many contemporary comforts on offer.
Furthermore, the property is within distance of London — and you won't have to spend a couple of days on the stagecoach to get there, like Sir Henry. Liverpool Street and King’s Cross are both less than two hours away by train.
What else could you get nearby? Well, equally charming, in the nearby town of Cavenham, is this four-bedroom house that's been stripped back, restored and is now a blank canvas for someone looking to get out of London. It's on the market with Belvoir at £650,000.
Exquisite houses, the beauty of Nature, and how to get the most from your life, straight to your inbox.
If you're looking for an occasional bolthole rather than a family home, then something where the maintenance headaches will be taken care of for you might fit better. This two-bedroom apartment within Herringswell Manor, for sale with Pocock & Shaw at £425,000, is just such a place — though you'll have to factor in a £5,332 annual service charge.
The 50 best places to live near London
Where are the best villages, towns and small cities which are a pleasure to live in, but still offer a

James Fisher is the Deputy Digital Editor of Country Life. He writes about property, travel, motoring and things that upset him. He lives in London.
-
A one-of-a-kind waterfront estate with two private beaches is for sale on the same storied American island that Jackie Kennedy, the Obamas and Princess Diana have all visited
Beach Farm on Martha’s Vineyard — a favourite summertime holiday destination with prominent American families — is a perfect melding of New England and Scandinavian design styles.
By Rosie Paterson Published
-
Snakes alive! Country Life Quiz of the Day, July 15, 2025
Napoleon's downfall and two of James Bond's most memorable villains in Tuesday's quiz.
By Country Life Published
-
A one-of-a-kind waterfront estate with two private beaches is for sale on the same storied American island that Jackie Kennedy, the Obamas and Princess Diana have all visited
Beach Farm on Martha’s Vineyard — a favourite summertime holiday destination with prominent American families — is a perfect melding of New England and Scandinavian design styles.
By Rosie Paterson Published
-
The architect who created the MI6 building only designed a tiny handful of houses — and one of them is now up for sale in one of London's most bucolic spots
Sir Terry Farrell designed the beautiful, light-filled, T-shaped Drum House in Petersham, with gardens laid out by John Sallis Chandler, who has won multiple RHS Chelsea Flower Show gold medals.
By Toby Keel Last updated
-
'True waterfront homes are finite... miss one and it could be years before you see another like it again': Why the best waterfront property always hits the spot
There’s no denying the appeal of waterfront property, which now sells for some 51% more than its inland equivalent, finds Knight Frank. Annabel Dixon explores the shore.
By Annabel Dixon Published
-
19 charming homes for sale, from picture-perfect cottages to beachside retreats, as seen in Country Life
This week's selection of some of the best homes to come to the market via Country Life this week.
By Toby Keel Published
-
Tim Burton is selling the house he shared with Helena Bonham-Carter, a sublime home on the Thames that comes with three private islands
Mill House in Sutton Courtenay, Oxfordshire, might just be the perfect English country home.
By Rosie Paterson Last updated
-
A spectacular tower for sale that's a blend of Victorian folly, architectural marvel and 21st century family home
Hadlow Tower has space, and a back story of love, jealousy and intrigue.
By Toby Keel Published
-
A spectacular, light-filled home on the Isle of Wight where you can see the water from practically every window
Penny Churchill takes a look at the grand and impressive Fishbourne Quay House.
By Penny Churchill Last updated
-
The former stables — and recording studio for the Pet Shop Boys — transformed with a magical blend of city and country aesthetic, now seeking a new owner
In the heart of Clerkenwell, what was once a Victorian industrial unit is now a beautiful home.
By Toby Keel Last updated