Upper Hartfield, East Sussex, TN7

A rare opportunity to restore a handsome unlisted home enjoying an unrivalled position at the end of a long private track.

Description

Nestled on its own at the end of a long private track off Cotchford Lane in this highly sought-after area on the edge of the famous Ashdown Forest, is Jessups, a detached unlisted period home dating back to circa 1930.

Now in need of complete restoration throughout, the bare bones of the property are standing, and suggest what a lovely family home this could be, being built in a classical style with attractive brick-work and a handsome symmetrical facade.

The site enjoys a fine rural position in about 9.7 acres with the land stretching from the property to the south, away from neighbours and potentially promising views to the Ashdown Forest, although it will need to be cleared to be able to fully appreciate the situation.

The approach to the property is most impressive; a long private track of approximately 1.4 miles from Newtons Hill in Upper Hartfield and then a gated driveway to the front door.

The property has been stripped internally and offers potential, but buyers will need to make their own enquires about what improvements will be possible to fulfill their vision, subject to any necessary planning consents, although our clients have taken advice, and made Pre-app enquiries to Wealden District Council.

Of particular mention is the gate on the southern-most boundary enabling direct access to the Forest via a bridleway on Cotchford Lane to Pooh Sticks Bridge Car Park.

Location

Jessups is located on the edge of the historic Ashdown Forest in a very secluded spot at the end of a long private track in Upper Hartfield in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There is direct access to the Forest for riding (by permit), and Pooh Sticks Bridge made famous by A A Milne's Winnie the Pooh stores is a walk of approximately 0.5 miles.

The Forest is an ancient area of heathland and the highest sandy ridge within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Originally a deer hunting forest in Norman times, it is now one of the largest public spaces in the South East.

The popular village of Hartfield is approximately 1.4 miles and offers a general store, butchers/farm shop, the Anchor pub, church, gift shop, tennis, cricket and football clubs, a medical centre and the historic Hatch Inn, whilst Forest Row (approx 3.7 miles,) has many independent shops, cafes, galleries and services.

The nearest towns are Tunbridge Wells (approx 9.6 miles), East Grinstead (approx 8 miles) and Sevenoaks (approx 18 miles). Gatwick airport is approx 17.5 miles.

Private and State schools: There are primary schools in Hartfield, Forest Row, Withyham and Groombridge and preparatory schools including Holmewood House, (Langton Green), Brambletye (East Grinstead) and Cumnor House (Danehill). At secondary level The Beacon Academy in Crowborough and Uckfield Community College. Privately, the Michael Hall Steiner school in Forest Row, Bedes in Upper Dicker, Eastbourne College, Mayfield School for Girls, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Ardingly, Worth and Hurstpierpoint Colleges.

Mainline rail: Commuter services to London Bridge, Cannon Street, Charing Cross and London Victoria are available from Cowden (approximately 4.5 miles), Dormansland and East Grinstead (approximately 8 miles), Hildenborough (approximately 13 miles).

There are many public footpaths in the vicinity and sporting options include horse riding by permit on the Ashdown Forest, racing at Lingfield Park, the Royal Ashdown Forest Golf Club, Holtye Golf Club and Crowborough Beacon Golf Club are amongst the many in the area.

Square Footage: 2,657 sq ft


Acreage: 9.7 Acres

Directions

Postcode TN7 4DL: From Tunbridge Wells, head west on A264, travelling through Langton Green and Groombridge, following signs for Hartfield on the B2110. Travel through the village of Hartfield, keeping right as you leave the village to merge onto Newtons Hill (B2110). After approximately 0.8 miles, you will see Central Garage on your right; the private track (Cotchford Lane) to Jessups will be found immediately opposite the garage on the left. Continue on the track, passing the first spur on the left and take the next one which is signed as the private access to serving eight properties including Jessups, which will be found where the track bears right at the very end.

Additional Info

Services: Oil tank in situ for central heating, mains water & electricity, private drainage system will require replacement.

Agent's Note:
1) Please be aware that this is a building site and suitable footwear should be worn.
2) There was a flood in 2011/2012 before our clients purchased due to a burst hot water tank. The plaster has been replaced and electrics attended to.
3) Cotchford Lane Association: Shared voluntary costs for the road of £200.00 for 2023. Works have been agreed, to be discussed in November.
4) Ashdown Forest Tariff to be confirmed.
5) Council tax payable currently at a 300% premium, meaning £16,320.76, to the current sellers, reflecting its empty/unfurnished state for more than 10 years.