Bishops Stortford Road, Roxwell, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1

Historic country house and wedding venue, reputedly one of King Henry VIII's retreats, featuring an unconverted Essex barn and acreage.

Description

Newland Hall is a remarkable timber-framed and plastered house with Tudor origins, later extended and altered, set in a private location at the end of a 300m driveway.

A prominent landmark on the western edge of Chelmsford, Newland Hall has operated as a well-known wedding and events venue. Now offered to the market with no onward chain, it presents an exciting opportunity to be reinstated as a private country house with a moderate amount of work.

This wonderful property sits on approximately 3.45 acres of landscaped gardens and grounds.

In addition to the main house, there are several outbuildings, including an unconverted Essex barn, among other useful structures used for storage. Located just 4.5 miles west of Chelmsford, Newland Hall offers both historical charm and excellent potential in a picturesque setting.

History
The Manor of 'Newlanda' was once owned by King Harold before the Norman Conquest and was the only landholding in Roxwell specifically recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Its name originates from the fact that it was created from untamed forest on ‘newly won land.’ Following the conquest, the land was held by Eustace, Earl of Boulogne.

By the early 13th century, Newland was in the possession of Ralph de la Neweland, and it remained within his family for the next two centuries. The first recorded mention of 'Newland Hall' - as opposed to simply Newland - appears in 1447. Manor Court records for Newland Hall date back to 1448, providing a glimpse into its long-standing heritage.

There is strong evidence to suggest that Newland Hall served as one of the retreats for the infamous King Henry VIII during his reign.

House
The house retains many of its original features, with period architecture, internal carved ceiling beams and an external façade heightened by charming red brickwork and exposed timber framing.

The house offers well-balanced accommodation across three levels. The entrance lobby opens into a welcoming reception hall. To the front elevation, there are two rooms currently used as an office and staff room. The ground floor also includes a commercial kitchen, a cloakroom and a storeroom.

An impressive dual-aspect reception room, featuring period detailing and an open fireplace, opens out to the side terrace and lawn beyond. An inner hall provides access to a second cloakroom and an additional reception room, which includes an integrated bar and an open fireplace.

On the first floor, there are five bedrooms and a bathroom. A second bathroom has been configured with two separate WCs.

The top floor is subdivided into three sections, offering additional versatile space.

There is a basement providing storage facilities.

Outside
The garden wraps around the house, with a section of the former moat still intact along the southern boundary. Predominantly laid to lawn, the gardens are designed for privacy, featuring neatly planted hedging and trees. A terrace extends to the western lawn, leading to a sizeable marquee used for large-scale functions, complete with associated facilities. These include a kitchen, staff room, guest and staff WC’s, bar and utility area.

Set back at the end of a long driveway, the property features a sweeping approach to the front of the house. There is a double garage, a stable block and a storage building. Additionally, a detached Essex barn with a midstrey offers excellent potential for a variety of uses.

All in around 3.45 acres.

Services
Mains water and electricity. Private drainage (compliant sewage treatment plant).

Agent's note
(i) The local authority Wedding Ceremony Licence has been renewed and is valid until 9th February 2028. (ii) The sale can include the marquee, which offers kitchen and WC facilities, along with a range of equipment suited for large-scale events. (iii) The driveway also serves the adjacent fishing lakes and stables, which are under the seller's ownership.

Location

Nestled within the breathtaking Newland Hall country estate, this remarkable property is enveloped by idyllic landscapes, featuring enchanting woodlands, rolling meadows, and over 100 acres of pristine grassland interspersed with four serene lakes. The picturesque setting offers an oasis of tranquillity while providing ample opportunities for outdoor pursuits, from leisurely countryside walks to immersive nature experiences.

Perfectly positioned along the A1060, Newland Hall enjoys excellent connectivity to Chelmsford - a vibrant city just 4.5 miles to the east, renowned for its rich history, bustling shopping districts and cultural attractions. For those seeking a broader range of amenities, the charming market town of Bishop’s Stortford lies approximately 14 miles to the northwest, offering an array of boutique shops, restaurants and transport links, including direct rail services to London.

Families will appreciate the outstanding educational opportunities within easy reach. Chelmsford boasts a diverse selection of highly regarded schools, including leading primary and secondary institutions, as well as prestigious independent options. The city is home to two esteemed grammar schools - King Edward VI Grammar School (KEGS) and Chelmsford County High School for Girls - both renowned for their academic excellence. Additionally, New Hall School, a distinguished independent boarding and day school, is conveniently located just outside the city, providing exceptional educational facilities in a historic setting.

Combining historic charm, natural beauty, and superb accessibility, Newland Hall offers a unique blend of countryside serenity with easy access to urban conveniences, making it a truly desirable place to live.

Square Footage: 3,799 sq ft


Acreage: 3.44 Acres