The Hollies, Ash Street, Semer, Ipswich, IP7 6QZ

Summary:  Discreetly positioned in the heart of the Suffolk countryside, The Hollies is an individual detached bungalow built in 1987, set within grounds of approximately 2.2 acres. The property enjoys an enviable rural position on the edge of the sought-after parish of Semer, with commanding views across its own gardens and paddock towards the rolling farmland surrounding Whatfield. The house is cleverly set back within its plot, creating a sense of privacy and tranquility, while maximising the outlook to the south. With versatile accommodation of three/ four bedrooms and expansive gardens perfect for equestrian facilities or a small holding. 

Planning Permission: The Hollies benefits from approved planning consent for significant enlargement into a modern and striking barn style property with vaulted kitchen windows and 5-bedrroms. Please refer to the last images in the listings for the approved layout and images. The Hollies offers both immediate comfort and considerable future potential.

Accommodation: The interior has been extensively updated by the current owners. At the centre of the home, the original kitchen and dining room have been opened into a single, free-flowing kitchen/breakfast/dining space. This light-filled area, now the hub of the house, combines contemporary finishes with practical design – ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen and adjoining utility room have been fully refitted with modern cabinetry, integrated appliances, and quality work surfaces, while all bathrooms have been remodelled to a stylish, high specification.

The original central hallway has been reconfigured to provide additional accommodation in the form of a study or optional fourth bedroom, perfect for home working or guest use. A new oil-fired heating system has also been installed, ensuring reliable efficiency throughout the year.

The floor plan naturally divides the living and sleeping areas. Three well-proportioned double bedrooms are positioned to one side of the bungalow, while the reception spaces are arranged to the rear, overlooking the principal gardens. The sitting room is a particularly inviting space, with triple-aspect windows, an open fireplace, and French doors that frame far-reaching views over the grounds.

Gardens & Grounds:
The external setting of The Hollies is a true highlight. Formal gardens wrap around the property on all sides, incorporating expansive lawns, specimen trees, and a feature brick and flint wall along the western boundary, running parallel with the quiet country lane of Ash Street. A private driveway to the north provides ample parking and leads to a detached double garage, fitted with power and lighting.

To the south, the formal gardens give way to an established orchard and a level paddock of around 1.2 acres, well suited for equestrian use, small-scale grazing, or hobby farming. The land is accompanied by a block-built stable and an adjacent tack room/store, making the property ideal for those with countryside or equestrian interests.

Opportunities:
Beyond the existing layout, planning permission has been granted for a substantial extension and remodeling, offering the incoming buyer scope to create a significantly larger residence tailored to individual requirements (further details available on request).

Additional Information:

• Freehold property
• Detached 2036sqft property.
• Land approximately 2.2 acres.
• Oil central Heating.
• Mains electric and water. Private sewerage.
• Local Authority: Suffolk
• Council Tax:  E (estimated £2,729 pa)
• Energy Performance Rating: E, with a potential rating of B
• Low-energy lighting in 20% outlets
• Mobile Phone Signal: O2, EE
• Cable Satellite TV: BT and Sky
• High spend internet: estimated speeds of up to 1800 mbps
• Flood Risk: Very Low (rivers and seas) High (Surface Water)
• Kitchen appliances to be included in the sale: All integrated appliances 

Local Area Guide: 

Location & Setting
Semer is a small village and civil parish in the district of Babergh, Suffolk, in the East of England. It lies adjacent to a bridge over the River Brett on the B1115 road, between Hadleigh and Stowmarket. The parish includes the hamlets of Ash Street and Drakestone Green. With a population of around 130 as of 2011, Semer is very rural and tranquil. 

 
History & Heritage
The name & settlement appear in historical records; its small size and riverside setting give it a long-standing agricultural character. Semer’s church, All Saints, is a focal point, set by the River Brett. 
The rural lanes, hamlets and the river contribute to a heritage of small-scale farming, woodland, and pastoral landscape typical of this part of Suffolk.
 
Neighbouring Villages & Local Area

• Whatfield, Kersey, Bildeston are nearby villages that provide more services, small shops or primary schools.
• Hadleigh is the nearest market town, offering more comprehensive amenities, shops, medical services, and secondary schooling.
• The countryside around Semer is scenic, with walks, riverside paths, meadows, woodlands, typical of Suffolk’s quiet rural charm.

 
Amenities, Pubs & Dining
There are no pubs or shops within Semer village itself. A nearby café at Hollow Trees Farm offers farm-shop produce, café food and local fare.  For more extensive dining or social amenities one travels to villages or towns like Hadleigh.
 
Schools & Education

• Nearest primary schools include Whatfield Church of England VC Primary , Kersey CE Primary , Beaumont Community Primary, Bildeston Primary.
• The nearest secondary school is Hadleigh High School, around 2.5-3.5 miles away, depending on location in Semer.
• School catchment and transport are managed by Suffolk County Council; parents may need to check exact postcode for catchment eligibility and travel options.

 
Transport & Connectivity

• The nearest railway stations are Needham Market (about 7-8 miles), Sudbury, Stowmarket, and Ipswich – all within approx. 8-10+ miles depending on the route.
• The B1115 road running through Semer connects to Hadleigh and Stowmarket, so road access is straightforward though rural.
• Bus services are limited; public transport is sparse and often based on community or local routes. Local stops at Semer Bridge or nearby points
• Walking, cycling and country lanes are part of life here; for daily errands or commuting one almost always uses a vehicle.
   

Character & Appeal
Semer offers a rare combination of peace, natural beauty, and a sense of escaping to the countryside, while remaining relatively accessible to larger service towns. Its setting by the River Brett, scattered hamlets, quiet roads, farm shops and woodland make it ideal for those seeking rural retreat, privacy, and authenticity. Proximity to Hadleigh ensures that essentials aren’t too far away, but life in Semer runs on a slower, more pastoral pace.