Steeped in history and architectural significance, Crown House is an exceptional Grade II* listed village residence, occupying a prominent and picturesque position on Bridge End, in the heart of the historic Essex village of Newport. Dating from the late 16th and 17th centuries, this remarkable home is widely regarded as one of the village’s most important period properties, celebrated for both its beautifully preserved façade and its captivating royal connections.

Legend has it that King Charles II passed through Newport on his way to the Newmarket races, and it is believed that his mistress, Nell Gwynn, a famous actress at the time, may have resided at Crown House during this time, a story that adds a compelling layer of romance and provenance to an already extraordinary home. Historic England records describe the property as a late C16 and C17 timber-framed and plastered house, with a particularly rare and striking frontage. The upper storey is adorned with decorative pargetted plaster panels, featuring floral garlands and roses, while a distinctive crown motif in high relief sits proudly above the central doorway. The date 1692, set above the entrance, further anchors the house within England’s architectural narrative.

Behind its handsome and symmetrical façade lies over 4,500 sq ft of accommodation, arranged across three principal floors and complemented by a substantial detached outbuilding and a wonderfully private rear garden that belies the home’s central village setting.

The ground floor is rich in character and atmosphere, offering a series of elegant reception rooms that speak to the home’s heritage and craftsmanship. Original exposed timber beams, wide plank flooring and beautifully detailed wall panelling are evident throughout, while a number of inglenook and open fireplaces provide natural focal points. The principal reception rooms offer both grandeur and intimacy, equally suited to formal entertaining or relaxed family living. A particularly impressive dining room that features a classic fireplace, while the main sitting rooms showcase exceptional ceiling timbers and proportions rarely found in such complete form.

At the heart of the home sits the kitchen, a wonderfully atmospheric space that balances historic charm with everyday practicality. Set beneath a canopy of exposed beams, the kitchen is centred around an AGA, complemented by bespoke cabinetry, generous preparation space and room for a large farmhouse table. Adjoining utility, pantry and laundry rooms ensure the working areas of the house are discreet yet highly functional, ideal for modern family life within a period setting.

The first floor provides five beautifully proportioned bedrooms, each retaining the character expected of a house of this calibre. Exposed timbers, original fireplaces, leaded casement windows and historic panelling are recurring features, while outlooks extend across both the mature gardens and the historic street scene to the front. The principal bedroom suite is a particularly impressive space, offering generous proportions, a wealth of character and an adjoining stylish en-suite bathroom with a freestanding bath and a separate shower leading to a dressing area. Additional bathrooms and shower rooms serve the remaining bedrooms, combining traditional fittings with modern convenience.

Rising to the second floor, the sixth bedroom occupies a charming and atmospheric position beneath the roofline. Here, the historic character of Crown House is perhaps at its most evocative, with exposed timber framing, gently sloping ceilings and a leaded window set within the original structure. The room offers excellent versatility, lending itself equally well as a guest bedroom, teenager’s retreat, studio or quiet home office, and provides a peaceful sense of separation from the principal accommodation below.

Set to the rear of the property, a substantial detached outbuilding, which was a former stables, further enhances the versatility of Crown House. Finished in traditional black weatherboarding and arranged over two levels, this characterful structure provides a range of highly adaptable spaces, currently including a snug, gym and additional storage, along with a charming mezzanine-level studio or study reached via a timber staircase. With exposed beams, brick and flint detailing and excellent natural light, the outbuilding lends itself perfectly to home working, creative pursuits, a private retreat or ancillary accommodation, subject to any necessary consents.

The gardens are a particular delight. To the rear, a large, mature lawned garden stretches approximately. 0.5 acres from the house, bordered by established trees and planting to create a genuine sense of seclusion and calm. Stone terraces provide ideal spaces for outdoor dining and entertaining, while the scale and privacy of the garden are remarkable for such a central village location. There is also another 0.8 acres of garden land opposite Crown House.

Crown House sits just moments from Newport’s amenities, schooling and transport links, including the mainline station offering direct services to London Liverpool Street and Cambridge, yet enjoys an atmosphere of tranquillity and privacy rarely found in such a convenient setting.

A home of genuine historical importance, architectural beauty and enduring romance, Crown House represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of Newport’s most significant and enchanting period residences.

Agents Notes:
Tenure: Freehold
EPC Band: Exempt (Grade II*-Listed)
Uttlesford District Council - Tax Band H - £4,470.84pa
All Mains Services Connected
Mobile Coverage: Good Indoor & Outdoor Coverage Across All Major Networks (Ofcom)
Broadband Coverage: Ultrafast Available, 1,000 Mbps (Ofcom)

Location:
Newport is a highly sought-after village located just a short distance from the historic market town of Saffron Walden. The village offers a peaceful, rural setting while remaining within easy reach of local amenities, schools, and excellent transport links, including access to nearby Cambridge and London. Residents enjoy a strong sense of community, picturesque surroundings, and convenient access to countryside walks. The area is ideal for families, professionals, and anyone looking for a combination of village charm with modern convenience.

Parking - Garage

Parking - Driveway

With listed buildings consent, you could add an electric car charger to the outbuilding and charge off-road.

Parking - On street

Disclaimer

Every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of these details, however they do not form part of any offer or contract. All measurements, distances and areas are approximate and for guidance only. Prospective purchasers should not rely on these particulars and must satisfy themselves by inspection or otherwise.