Church Street Norwich, Norfolk, NR12

How do you begin to describe the allure of this captivating home? Tucked away in the charming village of Coltishall, this remarkable home is concealed behind a lush brick wall beautifully adorned with vibrant foliage, offering a sense of seclusion and tranquillity. This property stands as one of Norfolk's most prestigious homes, seamlessly blending the elegant characteristics of Georgian and Victorian architecture while playing a significant role in the rich tapestry of Coltishall's history that dates back to the 1700s. Don’t miss the chance to experience the good life in this captivating home.

A Homely Heritage

The Old House is a distinguished Georgian residence built in 1729, located along the main road through the charming village of Coltishall. Constructed from red brick, the property boasts an impressive fa硤e with three bays separated by rusticated pillars, all framed by high brick boundary walls that enclose a private front garden.

Coltishall was once a thriving industrial town home to prosperous industries like brewing, malting, and wherry construction. The Old House was likely built for one of the affluent families profiting from these enterprises.

Notably, the property has a rich brewing history, once owned by Siday Hawes, a leading brewer in Coltishall during the 18th century. Hawes’ brewery and network of malthouses were located around the house, and by 1820, he had become the region’s dominant brewer, producing more ale than even Lacons of Yarmouth. The Old House is a testament to the village’s industrial past and the wealth it generated, offering a glimpse into the historical significance of Coltishall.

Location

The Old House is located in the riverside village of Coltishall, which offers a vibrant community with a mix of tranquillity and liveliness. Local amenities include shops, a surgery, a pharmacy, tearooms, pubs, and a primary school.

Children can easily reach the nearby high school in Hoveton, with regular bus services to Norwich, just 20 minutes away by car. Coltishall maintains a serene atmosphere, ideal for paddleboarding and swimming at Horstead Mill.

Norwich, located about 8 miles away, provides excellent shopping, dining, cultural facilities, education options, and direct train links to London and Cambridge. The A11 road offers access to Cambridge, approximately 60 miles to the southwest. Directions to The Old House involve leaving Norwich via North Walsham Road, passing through Horstead, and turning onto Church Street/B1354.

Take a Look Inside

This distinguished residence, with a storied history dating back to 1727, has undergone a thoughtful expansion and restoration that beautifully integrates its rich heritage with modern amenities. Over the years, the home has evolved substantially, adding an elegant Victorian wing and a more contemporary frontage that enhances its aesthetic appeal.

Upon entering the home, you are greeted by the grandeur reminiscent of its original era. The high ceilings, large sash windows, and exquisite proportions create an atmosphere of spaciousness and elegance. A stunning central staircase serves as the focal point of the entrance hall, while period fireplaces, meticulously restored in nearly every room, add warmth and charm. The owners have taken great care in the restoration process, uncovering remarkable features such as original period fireplaces and an antique range oven in the kitchen. They have utilized traditional materials, including breathable plaster and restored windows fitted with secondary glazing, preserving architectural integrity and enhancing energy efficiency.

Collaborating with the acclaimed local designer Paula Gundry, the owners have curated interiors that exude elegance and global influences. The carefully selected decor includes bespoke Murano glass lighting fixtures that catch the eye and luxurious Italian marble accents in the bathrooms. The choice of Burlington sanitaryware, Fired Earth tiles, and Porcelanosa paints throughout the home further elevates the refined ambience.

At the forefront of the house, two beautifully appointed reception rooms provide distinct yet complementary spaces for relaxation and entertainment. The whisky room is particularly inviting, featuring a cosy log burner that adds to the inviting atmosphere and views of the meticulously maintained garden. The formal dining room, designed for both intimate dinners and more significant celebrations, has hosted many memorable gatherings, especially during the holiday season when it becomes a stunning centrepiece for Christmas festivities.

The kitchen is a masterpiece of both function and design, boasting generous storage and ample preparation space to accommodate any culinary endeavour. Thoughtful features, such as a double Butler sink, an additional sink prominently located on the island, and a stable door that opens directly into the garden, enhance the kitchen's usability. Adjoining this space is a cosy breakfast room, perfect for casual family meals and morning gatherings. Additionally, a spacious boot room with a dog shower, a separate utility room, and a storeroom cater to the owners' equestrian lifestyle, ensuring convenience and practicality.

The property also provides versatile accommodations, including a Victorian-style guest suite with a fully accessible bathroom, ensuring all visitors' comfort. A well-appointed study featuring French doors open to the garden creates a serene workspace. The covered garden room invites year-round enjoyment, offering a tranquil retreat surrounded by nature. Below ground, a dry cellar has been creatively transformed into a charming dining area, ideal for hosting tapas nights and enjoying exquisite wines.

On the first floor, the generously sized principal suite offers an oasis of relaxation, complete with a walk-in wardrobe and an opulent marble bathroom with a classic roll-top bath and a spacious shower. In addition to the principal suite, three tastefully designed double bedrooms share access to two stylish bathrooms, with one elegant bathroom showcasing a freestanding bath that invites long, leisurely soaks.

For entertainment, the family cinema room is popular for movie nights and games, creating a cosy retreat for family and friends. A further staircase leads to a dedicated games room, perfectly designed for children's play and sleepovers, ensuring everyone has space to unwind and enjoy.

This exceptional home reflects a thoughtful balance of historic charm and contemporary luxury in every aspect. It showcases the owners' commitment to preserving its legacy while providing a comfortable and stylish living environment.

The Great Outdoors

The journey around the impressive 4 acres (STMS) of land begins in a formal front garden with a low-maintenance design. It features manicured lawns and fragrant lavender, providing eye and nose treats while creating a peaceful retreat.

Behind the house, a sunken dining terrace offers delightful alfresco dining with a fully functional outdoor kitchen, barbecue, and pizza oven. A convenient door leads to a utility room with a dishwasher and fridge-freezer, making entertaining guests seamless. This area is elegantly covered for protection from the elements, with a stylish breakfast bar for interaction during meal prep.

Move to the central garden, which presents an enchanting edible landscape filled with herbs and vibrant flowers. This landscape complements your outdoor kitchen in the previous space, and the house's charming flint exterior provides a picturesque backdrop.

Beyond lies a spacious covered section, perfect for entertaining or parking vehicles. There are ample parking options along the charming vine-covered driveway. Wine lovers can cultivate vines as the current owners have done.

As you enter the property, a tranquil woodland area with majestic, mature trees sets the stage for an exquisite, heated pool complex. This space features a chic kitchen ideal for culinary gatherings, an inviting living area in natural light, and stylish bathrooms that exude spa-like elegance. For fitness enthusiasts, there's a well-equipped gym and a soothing sauna. A private tennis court enhances this entertainer's paradise, seamlessly combining vibrant social gatherings with serene relaxation amidst nature.

We’re Not Done Yet

The house features a flexible annexe that can be integrated into the primary residence or used as a standalone living space, much appreciated by friends, family, and guests alike.

The ground floor includes a spacious sitting room, a well-equipped kitchen, a utility room, and a convenient cloakroom. Upstairs, a sizable en-suite bedroom and an adjoining single room can serve as a study. This layout can quickly reconfigure the space into two comfortable double bedrooms.

Furthermore, the annexe presents excellent income potential, whether as a long-term rental or a holiday let. Located in a popular tourist area, this property will likely attract significant interest, making it a valuable investment opportunity.

A Word from the Current Owners…

“The house has hosted many memorable dinner parties, murder mysteries, and gatherings, making it the aspect I'll miss most. However, it also offers moments of solitude and relaxation. The glazed courtyard is my favourite spot, perfect for year-round afternoon tea or cosy readings.

The outdoor space has been a backdrop for unforgettable experiences like camping, cooking over a fire, and BBQs, thanks to the covered outdoor kitchen, which allows for enjoyment regardless of weather. The pool area, complete with a sauna and hot tub, feels like a private resort surrounded by a mature laurel hedge.

The village complements the house; four pubs are within a short walk, and the lovely Norfolk Mead Hotel, with a great restaurant and spa, is just five minutes away. It's a charming community with plenty to offer the new buyers.”

Tenure: Freehold

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Church Street, Norwich, Norfolk, NR12

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