Clacton Road, Horsley Cross, Manningtree, Essex, CO11

Set within the peaceful rural landscape of Horsley Cross, this distinctive Grade II listed residence presents a rare opportunity to acquire a characterful home that blends heritage charm with contemporary design. Positioned on Clacton Road, the property enjoys far-reaching open aspects to both the front and rear, with uninterrupted countryside views providing a private and tranquil setting. Formerly a semi-detached period cottage, the home has been thoughtfully extended via a central hallway that now connects to a striking barn-style addition, resulting in a generous and well-balanced layout that caters to modern living.

The property is approached via a gated entrance onto a wide shingle driveway, which provides ample off-road parking and leads to a detached cart lodge. The grounds have been landscaped with care to complement the surrounding farmland, creating a setting that feels both private and connected to its rural environment.
Once inside, the ground floor of this charming home unfolds with a blend of historic charm and modern design, offering a well-considered layout that delivers both character and functionality. The original cottage opens into a welcoming sitting room where exposed beams and a large inglenook fireplace with wood-burning stove create an inviting atmosphere. Natural slate flooring underfoot complements the period features, while deep-set windows frame garden views and allow light to gently filter through the space.
From here, a door leads to a stylish ground floor bathroom finished with panelling, a freestanding roll-top bath, and French doors that open directly to the garden - adding both practicality and a sense of luxury. The adjacent utility room is discreetly positioned and provides additional space for domestic tasks, with access to the connecting hallway that links old and new.
The heart of the home lies in the striking kitchen/dining/family area, housed within the barn-style extension. This expansive open-plan space is designed for everyday living and entertaining, with a large central island, sleek surfaces, and bespoke cabinetry. Full-height glazing and a spiral staircase draw the eye upward and outward, creating a light-filled environment that connects beautifully with the surrounding landscape. With defined zones for cooking, dining, and relaxing, this versatile area brings a contemporary edge to the property while maintaining a warm, welcoming feel.
The first floor offers four comfortable bedrooms and a family bathroom, all arranged to make the most of the property’s distinctive blend of period character and modern design. Timber beams, vaulted ceilings, and exposed trusses feature throughout, creating a cohesive feel. Angled ceilings and deep window reveals add texture and charm, while thoughtful placement of windows ensures each room is bright and enjoys either garden or far-reaching rural views.
The family bathroom is fitted in a modern style with clean lines and contemporary tiling, set beneath a sloping ceiling that adds to the sense of character without compromising comfort.
Outside, to the rear, the garden opens onto fields with no immediate neighbours behind, giving a sense of openness that is rare. The grounds include lawns, established planting, and specimen trees, with a kitchen garden and further space ideal for families or those seeking a more self-sufficient lifestyle. A dedicated outbuilding currently serves as a games and entertaining room, complete with bar and WC, but could easily lend itself to use as a home office, studio or annexe, subject to the usual consents.
In addition to the main garden areas, the property also benefits from a boiler room and useful ancillary storage, all discreetly tucked away to maintain the clean lines and peaceful feel of the setting. Whether for entertaining, working from home, or simply enjoying the outdoors, the grounds are an extension of the home’s generous and adaptable character.