Cinder Hill, North Chailey, Lewes, East Sussex, BN8

Superbly presented wing of a substantial Victorian country house, situated in a beautiful rural position.

Description

Roeheath was originally a substantial Victorian country house, forming part of a larger estate; in the 1950s, the principal house was divided into five impressive residences, each with its own section of outside space, and each retaining the red brick elevations, tall windows with cream stone surrounds and tiled roof in keeping with the original.

Number 4 is a substantial wing, offering approximately 2,102 sq ft of versatile living space arranged over two floors; it has been recently renovated and redecorated by the current owner, with works including the addition of underfloor heating throughout, replacement double glazed sash windows, new bathrooms, and a remodelled kitchen. The décor is stylish, and well suited to the grand proportions of the rooms.

The house is approached via an entrance porch, part of a modern single storey addition to the house; a glazed arch opens to the sitting / dining room, an impressive space which was originally the billiard room. It has a fireplace set with a wood burning stove and tall windows, featuring the original moulding and set with new plantation shutters, and a pair of interior glazed doors with arched glazed surrounds which open to the kitchen/breakfast room. The kitchen is beautifully fitted with quartz worktops, dark blue cabinets, and range of high-quality appliances including a Novy five burner gas hob (fired by LPG), with a Novy extractor over, an oil-fired Aga, Miele appliances including two ovens (one with microwave) a warming drawer, a wine fridge, a dishwasher, a washing machine and a fridge/freezer, a Qooker tap and a larder cupboard. It is open to the breakfast/family room, which has a roof light and sliding doors to the terrace, creating a great flow between inside and out. To the rear is a study, a cloakroom, and understairs storage.

All rooms on the first floor have soaring ceiling heights and are beautifully presented. The dual aspect principal bedroom enjoys far reaching views to the distinctive ridge of the South Downs, beyond the garden and countryside. There is a fitted dressing room, and a spacious en suite with walk-in shower. Bedrooms two and three are served by a bathroom.

The grounds are a particular feature of Roeheath, having a generous, open feel and extending to about 1.13 acres in all. from Cinder Hill via a long tree-lined private driveway, which is shared by all properties; a spur (wholly owned by number 4) leads to 3 and 4 Roeheath. There is a gravelled parking area in front of the house, and an oak framed car port with two open bays, a ground floor room and a first floor store (currently used as a gym). There is a further machinery store/workshop to the rear.

To the south of the house is an all-weather tennis court; the gardens are mainly laid to lawn with some established tress and shrubs planted. There is an enclosed side courtyard where the boiler and the LPG tanks serving the hob are sited.

Agent’s Notes
1. The shared driveway from Cinder Hill is owned by the Roeheath Residents Association, of which the owner of 4 Roeheath is a member. Each member contributes annually towards maintenance, number 4’s contribution is £600 in 2024.
2. There is a provision relating to boundary structures, that there should not be permanent fencing within the gardens (boundaries may be hedged). The stock fencing around the small lawn is not permanent and will be removed.

Location

Situated on a popular rural lane in North Chailey, close to the South Downs National Park. The village is rural yet not remote, with a gastro pub and village hall; the parish church is a pleasant walk along the lane and across a meadow. The nearby village of Newick’s thriving community includes a health centre, pharmacy, shops, bakery and a three pubs. Comprehensive shopping is available at Lewes (seven miles), Haywards Heath (7.5 miles) or Brighton (14.5 miles).

There are many leisure activities available in the area with bridle paths and footpaths across the surrounding countryside, including Chailey Common, Ashdown Forest and the South Downs. There is racing at Plumpton, sailing at Ardingly, golf across the county and the Bluebell Steam Railway at Sheffield Park. Sussex has a vibrant cultural and arts scene, with world-class opera at Glyndebourne, and the annual Brighton Festival presenting a huge programme of theatre, dance, classical music and literary events.

Transport links: there are frequent rail services to London from Haywards Heath (journey time to London Bridge/Victoria from 42 minutes) and Cooksbridge (four miles, from 65 minutes). The A23/M23 lies to the west, giving access to Gatwick airport (20 miles), the south coast and the M25.

Schools: There are many highly regarded schools in the area, both state and private, including St Peter’s CEP School, Newick CEP School, Chailey Secondary School, Lewes Old Grammar School, Cumnor House, Great Walstead, Ardingly College, Burgess Hill Girls and Hurstpierpoint College.

Square Footage: 2,102 sq ft


Acreage: 1.13 Acres

Directions

From the A272, take the A275 south towards Lewes, through Chailey Green. Pass the Five Bells on the right and immediately take the next left into Cinder Hill (signposted Cornwell’s Bank). Proceed for about 0.7 of a mile, over a small stream and bridge, and the driveway leading up to Roeheath is the next left; bear left on to the spur signposted 3 & 4 Roeheath.

Additional Info

Services: Oil fired central heating (underfloor). Mains electricity, water and drainage.

Outgoings: Lewes District Council, . Council tax band G.

Photographs taken: April 2024

Cladding: We have been told that this property has no cladding. Purchasers should make enquiries about the external wall system of the property, if it has cladding and if it is safe or if there are interim measures in place.

Tenure: Freehold

EPC rating: E