Bardwell, Suffolk

Windmill, detached cottage, w hop and small retail unit, all in 0.24-acre within this well-regarded and highly sought-after village.

Situated within this enviable rural village, Bardwell Cottage and Windmill is a rare and exciting opportunity, being offered for sale for the first time since 1987. Much loved and owned by the Wheeler family, the Grade II* windmill dates back to 1823, and continues to be lovingly restored since the ‘87 storm damage with the help from the ‘Friends of the Barwell Windmill’, English Heritage and Suffolk Council.

The family-run mill and cottage provide a wonderful prospect for new ownership, with versatile opportunities in both retail and residential use or an altogether new project to maximise the variety of buildings and space available.

Windmill Cottage (1,200ft2)
The Victorian cottage is arranged over two floors, and whilst the property is in good repair it would no doubt benefit from updating in various areas, with accommodation comprising sitting room and dining room, both with fireplaces, a large kitchen/breakfast room with useful base and eye level storage units, worktop and sink with drainer, together with access to a ground floor shower room. On the first floor, accessed via two staircases but interconnected, are 4 bedrooms, enjoying views over the gardens and mill.

Retail barn (264ft2) and store (216ft2)
Adjoining the property is a brick-and-flint retail space, presently being used as an outlet for Wooster’s Bakery (the bakery would be pleased to remain leasing the premises) with adjoining store.

Workshop (592ft2)
Set to the back of the plot, behind the mill, is a large red-brick Victorian outbuilding, presently being used as a well-equipped workshop with high ceiling heights and the necessary electric supply to handle larger than typical domestica machinery.

Windmill (678ft2)
Partial listed building entry: “Tower mill. Circa 1830; a beam in the cap frame bears the date 1823. Ground floor and 3 upper floors. Tarred red brick tower with slight convex batter; metal-clad beehive roof with finial fitted over original cap frame in 1979”.

The windmill is now a fully working mill, and during the renovations the cap was renewed in 2000 complete with a new kerb. The sails and fan tail were renewed between 2010 – 2014, whilst all windows and doors were renewed over a similar period, in keeping with the original style.

All flour milling machinery has been overhauled, with both sets of stones being French Burr. The North Stones can be turned by wind, whilst the South Stones are turned by electric motor.

Outside
The grounds of the property extend to around 0.25-acre, with a parking area leading to an enclosed garden area, with a variety of mature trees and shrubs making a delightful place to enjoy, with a good deal of privacy. There is access to a ‘gardeners WC’ and further storage between the workshop and retail unit.

Services
Mains water, drainage and electricity • Gas-fired heating • Council Tax Band E

Location
Bardwell village is situated in the rural northwest of the county of Suffolk. The River Blackbourne passes through the Parish and the village lies on gently undulating land conveniently located between the towns of Bury St Edmunds and Diss.
The Parish of Bardwell extends over 4 miles north-south but averages only about one mile east-west. In 2005 there were 580 electors in 310 houses. Amenities include a well-supported public house, active Sports and Social Club with cricket and football teams, the Grumpy Goat bar and restaurant in the village. There is also the village school.

Bury St Edmunds is a unique and dazzling historic gem with a richly fascinating heritage - the striking combination of medieval architecture, elegant Georgian squares and glorious Cathedral and Abbey Gardens provide a distinctive visual charm.