Crepping Hall Road, Wakes Colne, Colchester, Essex, CO6

This outstanding piece of history is ready for the next chapter. Tucked away on circa 10 acres of private land sits this stunning historic Grade I listed family residence enjoying 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms and 6 reception rooms complete with Tennis court, pool and garaging. However, as impressive as it is, Crepping Hall is in need of an injection of energy, love and care to restore this county hall to its former glory. Contact us for further details.

Crepping Hall is a home with a remarkable story, shaped over centuries of careful additions and refinements. At its core lies the original 12th-century hall, the heart of the property for more than 800 years. In the Victorian era, this was enhanced with a handsome red brick extension to the north, while the Edwardian period brought the elegant west wing, complete with its signature double bay windows. More recently, a beautifully designed orangery has been added, linking the kitchen with the main drawing room to create a wonderfully light, open space that blends the old with the new.

From the outside, the house is just as impressive. The two-storey bay window of the west wing makes a striking focal point, while the medieval reception hall still forms part of the original open-aisled structure. Next to this is the timbered dining room, with its impressive inglenook fireplace and bressumer beam, a log burner set beneath, and warm herringbone parquet flooring underfoot.

The west wing offers three elegant reception rooms and a study on the ground floor, along with three of the seven bedrooms upstairs. The family room, with its window seat tucked into the bay, is a cosy space with an open fire, while the sitting room enjoys views over the rear garden, alongside original shutters, coving, picture rails and parquet flooring. Both the study and family room open directly onto a south-facing veranda.

The south-west cross wing, added in the 16th century, was originally home to the billiard room and extra bedrooms, but now houses a superb formal drawing room. Here, moulded beams, parquet flooring, and an Art Nouveau fireplace with a Norfolk seat create an exceptional setting, with French doors opening to the terrace.

The orangery serves as a bright breakfast room and informal living space, enjoying garden views. The kitchen, finished with Poggenpohl units in a smart black and white gloss, is designed around a central island with breakfast bar, a Neff cooker, and an Aga. To the rear, the Victorian extension provides a practical boot room and utility, both with direct garden access.

Outside
The gardens are just as thoughtfully planned, with large lawns, mature shrubs and ancient trees. To the south, a formal knot garden is planted with roses, while a wooden bridge crosses the pond, leading to the hard tennis court. A heated swimming pool is tucked away in a more secluded part of the garden. Alongside the hall there’s a double garage with studio above, and a five-bay L-shaped garage.

History
Crepping Hall’s history is woven into the fabric of the building. Once owned by the de Vere family, Earls of Oxford, the hall was home to Aubrey de Vere during Henry IV’s reign. In 1483, Richard III gifted the property to John Howard, Duke of Norfolk, before Henry VII returned it to the de Veres. John de Vere, the 13th Earl of Oxford, saw two of his grandchildren—both born at Crepping Hall—go on to serve as military commanders under Elizabeth I.

Location

Wakes Colne is a charming rural village nestled in the picturesque countryside of Essex, offering a serene and idyllic lifestyle for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. Situated along the River Colne, this village is known for its stunning landscapes, including rolling hills, lush meadows, and ancient woodlands, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The village itself exudes a timeless charm with its traditional cottages, historic buildings, and a welcoming community atmosphere. One of the village's highlights is The Swan, a quintessential English public house that serves as the heart of the community. This cozy, family-friendly pub offers a warm ambiance, delicious locally-sourced food, and a great selection of ales, making it the perfect spot to relax and unwind.
Adding to the village's scenic appeal is the picturesque Victorian viaduct, a remarkable piece of 19th-century engineering that gracefully spans the Colne Valley. The viaduct not only serves as a stunning visual landmark but also provides a unique backdrop for leisurely walks and photography, enhancing the village's tranquil and picturesque environment.
Despite its rural setting, Wakes Colne is conveniently located just a short drive from the bustling town of Colchester, providing easy access to a range of amenities, including shopping, dining, and excellent schools. The village is also well-connected, with good transport links to London and other major towns, making it an ideal location for commuters who desire a countryside retreat.
Wakes Colne offers a unique blend of rural charm, historical interest, and modern convenience, making it an attractive destination for families, retirees, and anyone looking for a peaceful place to call home on the verge of the Essex Suffolk borders.