Broomhill Walk, Woodford Green, IG8

Hurst House, affectionately nicknamed “The Naked Beauty,” was built in the early 18th century (circa 1711-1714) by East London brewer Henry Raine, intended as a peaceful rural retreat from his home in Wapping.

Believed to have been designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor, a prominent architect of the English Baroque period, the central portion of the house was later expanded with grand wings connecting to stables and outbuildings, all topped with domed cupolas. The property was designated a Grade II* listed building in 1954.

Its front façade is finished in stucco and adorned with Corinthian pilasters and ornate door surrounds, while the rear retains original brickwork and 18th-century bay windows. Architectural historian Nikolaus Pevsner once described it as “the best house of Woodford.”

Evolution & Usage By the 19th century, Hurst House had been subdivided. The north wing and adjoining stable block became known as Woodford House and briefly operated as Woodford House School, marking the only period the property wasn’t a private residence.

Just before the First World War, the estate returned to single-family use. In 1936, a major fire destroyed the roof, part of the south wing, and the top floor. Reconstruction was completed by 1937, scaling down the original wings but preserving the central structure. Architecture & Gardens Originally set on a three-acre plot, the estate included stables, coach houses, greenhouses, a grapery, fruit gardens, and landscaped grounds. An 1811 Times advertisement praised it as a countryside haven offering “delightful prospects.”

In the 20th century, the estate was reduced to about one acre, with 18 houses built on the surrounding land. In 1952, acclaimed garden designer Percy Cane restructured the grounds into three distinct areas: a croquet lawn, a classical garden with statues and urns, and a rose garden interplanted with fruit and vegetables. Rare trees such as a handkerchief tree and Acer negundo still grow on site. Community & Legacy To mark its 300th anniversary in 2014, then-owner Nicola Munday opened the house and gardens to the public during the Woodford Festival.

Over 1,000 visitors attended, celebrating the home’s rich local heritage and sharing stories.

Hurst House is now considered one of the last remaining examples of the once-grand estates that lined Woodford Row-a contrast to now-lost residences like Wanstead House and the Monkhams mansion.

Currently, the property offers elegant, spacious living throughout, with a large integrated kitchen, five first floor bedrooms, five receptions, three bathrooms and large basement with entertainment room.

Both the main house and coach house off secure gated off-street parking.

Due to the prestige of this property, all interest parties will be required to confirm the following information; Proof of ID & current address. We will also require detailed information regarding occupations and salary details.

Also available for short let.