Hunworth, Melton Constable, Norfolk, NR24

An enchanting Grade II* listed Mill House with authenticity and charm.

Description

Hunworth Mill is a beguiling home in a timeless setting. Set in the Glaven Valley, with the River Glaven passing through the grounds and Mill race of the house, there is an unmistakably magic aura to it all and one that can only be understood when visiting, or indeed living there.

The history of the Mill dates back to Saxon times, with milling dues paid to Edward the Confessor. Despite standing unused for 80 years leading up the 1970’s, the machinery remained intact and were retained when the building was converted in the early 1980’s. The house subsequently evolved, as too the gardens which were remodelled by the Chelsea Award winning garden designer Arne Maynard. The current custodians have focused on making the house fit for modern living. A sympathetic programme of renovations, extension and modernisation have resulted in a house with practicality and style, a commendable feat within a Grade II* listed building. The result is a home that works, whether for a family or couple, whether full of guests or simply a peaceful summers evening beside the river, with a glass of something.

The tone of the house soon becomes apparent, with the wonderful open plan kitchen/dining/living area. A vibrant space, with kitchen by Naked Kitchens with clever design points such as Cemble concrete worktops that reflect the light of the dual aspect room, a bi-fold drinks cabinet, and the large central island that becomes the hub of the house. An Aga is a reminder of the country setting, with a breakfast bar at the island, whilst in one corner of the room is a dining area, another corner a comfy seating area, and the added bonus of French doors out to a south facing terrace beside the river. A cosy dining room is off the kitchen, as is the obligatory utility room, whilst a refined living room is at the end of the house with bespoke shelving, and impressive open fireplace with stone surround. This room, and the dining room, has glazed doors opening to the most recent addition to the house. Designed by renowned architect, Thomas Faire, a sun/garden room was added to stunning effect, with tall vaulted ceilings, plenty of glazing both in the roof structure and at various heights in the room, and oak floors, it is highly usable and connects the house to the outside. This room has underfloor heating, as does the kitchen and dining room.

The bedrooms are over the first and second floor, with the first floor reached by a staircase within the former working area of the mill, providing a daily reminder of how important the house once was. A spacious dual aspect principal bedroom, an equally spacious family bathroom, a guest bedroom with en suite bathroom, are all highlights, with a light and airy second floor in the eaves providing three bedrooms and shower room. Furthermore, a hatch through to the gantry creates a tantalising opportunity of creating further habitable space if required, and subject to planning.

Cottage and outbuildings
A major asset to the property is a detached and self-contained cottage. Of similar vintage to the Mill, with pretty brick and flint, this has been used for guests & family, with a sitting room, bedroom and bathroom on the ground floor and a studio above. There is planning consent to create a kitchen, an internal staircase, and two first floor bedrooms and shower room. It is a brilliant asset for the house, for multi gen living, or a staying nanny, or perhaps as an amazing Airbnb. The cottage is set away from the house so enjoys its own privacy.

Forming part of the same building is a storage barn and garage, housing essential kit. As part of the cottage planning consent, there is consent for a three bay car port located in the parking area to the north of the house. This arrangement would add value to the property.

Location

Hunworth Mill is conveniently placed to make the most of the North Norfolk lifestyle. Both the Georgian town of Holt and the coastline of Blakeney are easy drives, a pleasant cycle or a lovely walk along footpaths through open countryside and woodland. The village of Hunworth is a pretty one, centred around a green, with the popular public house, The Hunworth Bell, due to reopen. The surrounding countryside to the village hosting a network of walking routes to enjoy, taking in the Stody Estate which provides some 15 kilometres of rural footpaths and bridleways, whilst also being well known for its open gardens. The neighbouring village of Edgefield hosts the well regarded public house ‘The Pigs’ alongside a garage and excellent garden Nursery, and Briston with one of the top butchers in the county, Graves, a village store and co-op.

Holt continues to thrive. The bustling Georgian town is famous for its boutique shopping including Bakers & Larners, Byfords restaurant and many independent retailers alongside art galleries, antiques shops and jewellers. The town has a thriving café scene, notably the Cross Street Union coffee shop, restaurants including the Michelin starred ‘Meadowsweet’, The Feathers pub, The Kings Head, and others. The award winning Erics pizza is a quick option, whilst a supermarket provides everyday essentials and more.

The renowned Gresham’s Preparatory and senior schools are within the town, with further preparatory education is at Beeston Hall School near Sheringham.

The North Norfolk coast, much of which is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is deservedly popular with sailing enthusiasts and ornithologists. There are regular seal trips from both Morston and Blakeney and a plethora of renowned restaurants and pubs along the coastline. There are golf courses at Sheringham, Cromer and Brancaster, with padel courts at both Fakenham and Holt.

Square Footage: 4,418 sq ft


Acreage: 1.55 Acres

Additional Info

Gardens and Grounds
An enchanting feature of Hunworth Mill is its surroundings, both the immediate gardens and countryside around it. The setting is delightfully unspoilt, with the gardens expertly curated to blend in, whilst also enhancing the living experience at the Mill.

A typically understated electric five bar gate opens to the drive that sweeps down to the Mill and river, branching off to a gravelled parking and turning area for many cars. The drive continues through the river and over to the Cottage, barn and garage.

The gardens have now had time to mature and become established, since its remodel by Arne Maynard, with the landscaping now in its pomp and to be enjoyed. Maynard designed and implemented a knot garden of spiral yew topiary and box hedging, dividing beech hedging, an orchard avenue, an assortment of espaliered fruit trees, and kitchen garden where Maynard commissioned soft fruit cages with lead pineapple finials. A statement feature is to the east of the house, where an arrangement of flower beds surround a scarlet oak, and established hornbeam and holm oak creating the effect of a hedge on stilts, an impressive structural form. Areas of lawn provide an openness, particularly to the south and south west of the house, with a lawn to the east of the river sweeping away to the River House. This is a cedar summerhouse, nestled on the banks of the river, with veranda and jetty on the rivers edge. It makes for an idyllic, calm and captivating spot to enjoy the rivers wildlife, with an extensive species list including Kingfisher, otters and egrets. The peace of the setting also allows for just sitting and listening to the river.

Adjoining the house are terraces, to follow the sun, with the most extensive area fittingly to the south-west. This is a place to enjoy al fresco dining or to simply relax, with the sound of the river in the background and looking out over lawns to woodland.

Meadows to the north of the house sit either side of the river, with Alder trees and willow, with a allweather tennis court set beside the river creating a unique backdrop to long summer evenings games. It all adds to the lifestyle of the grounds.

Services
Mains water, electricity and private drainage (Septic tank). Oil fired central heating.
Please ask the agent for further details on the private drainage.

Local Authority
North Norfolk District Council
Council Tax band G

Fixtures & Fittings
All fixtures and fittings including fitted carpets are included in the sale.

Viewings
Strictly by appointment with Savills. If there is any point which is of particular importance to you, we invite you to discuss this with us, especially before you travel to view the property.