Pound Lane, Ugley, Bishop's Stortford, Essex, CM22

A magnificent Grade II* listed William & Mary manor house in 3.5 acres of landscaped grounds.

Description

Orford Hall is a truly exceptional country residence, steeped in history and architectural grandeur. Originally built in the early 18th century during the William and Mary period, this distinguished manor has been thoughtfully extended and meticulously restored over the centuries.

Today, it stands as a remarkable fusion of period elegance and contemporary refinement, offering approximately 10,000 sq ft of living space. Set within 3.5 acres of beautifully landscaped and private grounds, the estate is approached via a sweeping drive with dual access from both the B1383 and Pound Lane. The grounds provide a tranquil and secluded setting, ideal for both grand entertaining and peaceful retreat.

The main house features nine bedrooms, including four luxurious suites, each with its own unique character. Four additional standalone bedrooms offer flexibility for family or guests, while a separate, self-contained annex provides a further suite with its own kitchen, living room, and utility area perfect for staff, extended family, or private guest accommodation.

The reception spaces are equally impressive, with eight oak-floored rooms that exude warmth and sophistication. Among these are an office, a richly appointed library and a period drawing room that showcases the home’s heritage. Interiors have been enhanced with a bespoke hand-made kitchen, state-of-the-art wet rooms and the use of natural, carefully matched materials throughout, ensuring a seamless blend of old and new.

The property also includes a double garage and car port, providing ample space for vehicles and storage.

Throughout the home, original period features have been lovingly preserved and restored. Highlights include early 18th-century Adams fireplaces, intricate wood panelling, and other architectural details that speak to the estate’s distinguished past.

Orford Hall is not only a residence of rare beauty and scale but also a piece of English heritage. Its Grade II* listing underscores its historical and architectural significance, making it a truly unique offering in the heart of the Essex countryside.

This is a rare opportunity to own a landmark estate perfectly suited as a grand private residence, a boutique retreat, or a prestigious corporate headquarters.

Location

Orford Hall is ideally situated on the edge of the traditional hamlet of Ugley, offering a rare blend of rural tranquillity and exceptional connectivity. Just 4 miles north of Bishop’s Stortford and 1.5 miles from Stansted Mountfitchet, the property enjoys a peaceful countryside setting while remaining close to vibrant towns, international transport hubs and world-class innovation centres.

Access is via a private drive from the B1383, with an additional approach from a drive off Pound Lane. The property is just 8 miles from Junction 8 of the M11, providing fast road links to London, Cambridge and Stansted Airport.

Bishop’s Stortford is a thriving market town with a wide range of amenities including boutique shops, national retailers, restaurants, cafés and leisure facilities. It also offers a direct rail service to London Liverpool Street in around 45 minutes. The town is home to several excellent schools, including Bishop’s Stortford College and Hockerill Anglo-European College.

For even closer rail access, Stansted Mountfitchet Station is just 1.8 miles away, with up to 48 trains daily to London and Elsenham Station is less than a mile away, both offering direct services to the capital.

To the northeast, the historic market town of Saffron Walden (9 miles) offers a rich cultural experience with independent shops, art galleries, fine dining and the grand Audley End House and Gardens.

For international buyers or those seeking a UK base for business, Stansted Airport is just 8 miles away, offering direct flights to over 150 European destinations. London City Airport is also easily accessible via the M11, providing fast links to Europe’s financial centres. Just 30 miles to the north lies Cambridge, one of the world’s leading centres for science, technology and innovation.

Orford Hall presents a compelling opportunity for those seeking a prestigious residence or headquarters within reach of Europe’s most dynamic research and development corridor.

Square Footage: 10,639 sq ft


Acreage: 3.5 Acres

Directions

Postcode: CM22 6HP

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Additional Info

Orford Hall was commissioned in 1705 by Admiral Edward Russell, a prominent naval commander in the War of the English Succession. As Commander-in-Chief of the Anglo-Dutch fleet, he led victories at Barfleur and La Hogue, securing the throne for William III. His success earned him the titles Viscount Barfleur, Baron Shingay, and Earl of Orford from which the estate takes its name, despite being 60 miles west of Orford in Suffolk.

In tribute to its noble origins, Orford Hall has been restored to reflect its original grandeur. Care was taken to preserve the historic character of the building, especially within the core structure believed to be part of the original house. Over time, partitions had obscured the scale and elegance of the rooms; these have now been removed, revealing their full proportions.

Original 18th-century coving has been repaired, wood panelling restored, and interiors returned to their former glory. The restoration used natural materials—English and French oak, Travertine, marble, and basalt tiles, laid with precision. Granite and limestone worktops and quality sanitary ware have been installed to match the property’s timeless style.

Today, Orford Hall stands as a magnificent residence and a tribute to its historic past where heritage and craftsmanship meet in harmony.