Kettlebaston, Ipswich, IP7

The Old Rectory is an idyllic country house set within about 8 acres of beautifully maintained gardens and grounds, complete with a charming, detached annex and tennis court.

Description

Coming to the open market for the first time in over 90 years, this is a rare opportunity to acquire a truly special country house. Believed to date from the 17th century, The Old Rectory displays a wealth of elegant period features, including sash windows, deep skirting boards, decorative cornicing and open fireplaces. The house is not listed, offering both character and flexibility. The accommodation is beautifully presented, well-proportioned and filled with natural light throughout.

A welcoming reception hall sets the tone, with the principal reception rooms leading off. The drawing room is particularly elegant, featuring a large bay window and a marble fireplace, while the sitting room flows seamlessly through to the kitchen/breakfast room.

Designed by Orwells Furniture, the bespoke kitchen is both timeless and practical, with an AGA, integrated appliances, a double butler-style sink and a walk-in pantry. Both the kitchen/breakfast room and the sitting room enjoy French windows to the terrace, creating an effortless connection between indoor and outdoor living - ideal for both everyday family life and entertaining.

Additional ground floor accommodation includes a dining room with open fire and French doors, a dual-aspect study, a well-appointed boot room, cloakroom, and a cellar.

The first floor offers a generous master bedroom with a recently refurbished, high-specification en suite bathroom, both enjoying stunning south-facing views over the gardens and valley beyond. There are three further bedrooms (one en suite), a family bathroom, and a conveniently located laundry room. Off the main landing, a few stairs lead up to a charming dressing room/study. On the second floor there are two further double bedrooms, one with far-reaching views, along with an additional bathroom and a large attic room.

Approached via a quiet no-through lane that turns into a gravel driveway, The Old Rectory sits in an elevated position amidst beautiful gardens, expansive grounds and mature trees offering idyllic privacy.

A terrace extending the full width of the house provides an exceptional setting for al fresco dining and entertaining. To the north of the house lies extensive parking.

The grounds also include an all-weather tennis court, a productive kitchen garden with greenhouse, and a range of useful outbuildings including a workshop and tractor shed.

Positioned discreetly behind a yew hedge, approximately 30 feet from the house, is a charming cart lodge which has been converted and offers separate accommodation with kitchenette and shower room. Successfully used as a holiday let, it offers excellent potential for generating income or guest accommodation.

Location

The Old Rectory occupies a secluded setting in the heart of the Brett Valley, surrounded by gently undulating countryside on the edge of the picturesque hamlet of Kettlebaston. Nearby villages including Chelsworth, Monks Eleigh and Bildeston offer a strong sense of community.

The historic wool town of Lavenham, renowned for its medieval architecture and impressive church, provides an excellent selection of independent shops, cafés and pubs. Both Bildeston and Lavenham offer primary schools and medical facilities.

The area is well served by a range of highly regarded independent schools, including Old Buckenham Hall, Finborough School and South Lee, with Ipswich School, the Royal Hospital School, Culford and Framlingham also within reach.

Sudbury and Hadleigh provide a wider range of amenities, including regular markets and leisure facilities. Rail services to London are available from Sudbury (via Marks Tey), Stowmarket and Manningtree.

The property is conveniently located for Ipswich, Colchester and Bury St Edmunds, all offering excellent shopping, cultural and recreational facilities. Cambridge and Newmarket are also within easy reach.

Square Footage: 4,385 sq ft


Acreage: 8 Acres

Additional Info

Services: Private water (borehole) | Private drainage | Oil-fired central heating