Rainthorpe Hall is a splendid Grade I listed late-16th century manor house, situated in the unspoilt countryside of Norfolk, with grounds that extend down to the River Tas.
It was originally owned by the Chapman family, who sold it to a local lawyer, Thomas Baxter, in 1579. Following Baxter's death in 1611, the house passed to a number of owners, including the Third Earl of Orford who bought it in 1762, before it came into the hands of his younger son, the Honourable Frederick Walpole, MP for North Norfolk.
The Walpoles spent a great deal of money on the embellishment of Rainthorpe, bringing in much of the decorative woodwork, including beautiful panelled doors and over mantles.
In 1867, the property was bought by Sir Charles Harvey Bt., who was responsible for adding the “nursery wing”. It is also thought Harvey introduced the collection of stained glass, the earliest examples of which date back to the 13th and 14th centuries.
Designed in a traditional Elizabethan E plan and arranged over three storeys, Rainthorpe Hall is a splendid construction of red sand faced brickwork. Unusual for a house of this kind in this area, the first floor is half timbered, with exposed studs under a tiled roof. The Elizabethan atmosphere is further enhanced by magnificent old fireplaces, oak panelling carvings and wonderful stained glass. Large stone mullioned windows ensure beautiful light floods the rooms at dusk and dawn.
The property is surrounded by attractive gardens and grounds of about 18.7 acres. A notable feature within the grounds is a beautiful coach house and stable yard which comprises of 7 original timber and cast iron stables around a central cobbled yard.
The surrounding area is predominantly agricultural, providing excellent walking and riding opportunities. There are further sporting opportunities in the form of golf (courses at Norwich, Diss, Swaffham and Thetford) and racing (Newmarket, Fakenham and Great Yarmouth).
The city of Norwich (8 miles) provides excellent shopping, cultural and educational facilities. The market towns of Diss (16 miles) and Wymondham (5 miles) also offer good local amenities.
The guide price is £2.95m. For further information please contact Strutt & Parker on 020 7629 7282.
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