Dover Road, Sandwich, Kent

Hidden away within a private gated setting in the heart of the historic town of Sandwich, The Willows is an exceptional newly constructed detached residence, representing a rare fusion of contemporary craftsmanship and traditional Kentish architectural influence. Inspired by the surrounding vernacular farmhouses and historic period homes that characterise the local area, the property has been thoughtfully designed and individually constructed by the current owners in collaboration with award-winning oak frame specialists Norton Timber. Drawing upon the proportions, materials and warmth of traditional country homes while delivering the efficiency, versatility and finish expected of a modern bespoke build, the result is a home of genuine distinction. Occupying a plot of approximately 0.75 acres, concealed behind electric gates and mature boundaries, this remarkable home offers an extraordinary level of privacy and tranquillity despite being within short walking distance of Sandwich town centre and railway station.

Approached beneath an oak-framed entrance canopy, the property immediately establishes its architectural identity and attention to detail. The main entrance opens into a breathtaking reception hall where a striking central oak staircase rises beneath vaulted ceilings, framed by exposed oak timbers that continue throughout the home. A continuous sandstone tiled floor flows seamlessly across the ground floor accommodation, while extensive glazing and carefully positioned oak-framed panels flood the interior with natural light and create a strong visual connection with the surrounding grounds. Positioned from the entrance hall is a beautifully appointed shower room accessed via a sliding oak door, complete with a walk-in shower, WC and wash hand basin.

The principal living accommodation has been designed with both entertaining and day-to-day family life in mind, centred around an impressive open-plan arrangement that forms the true heart of the home. The living area is anchored by a contemporary inglenook-style fireplace incorporating a feature log burner, offering a refined homage to the historic properties that inspired the architecture of the house. From here, the space flows effortlessly into the bespoke kitchen, fitted with handcrafted shaker-style cabinetry, quartz stone work surfaces, a substantial central island and a range of integrated premium appliances alongside space for a traditional range cooker. Separate from the kitchen is a fully fitted utility and plant room finished to the same exacting standard, incorporating a Belfast sink, extensive larder storage and housing the systems controlling the underfloor heating and mechanical infrastructure throughout the property.

To the rear, the dining area has been carefully designed to maximise both light and outlook, featuring exposed oak detailing, panoramic glazing, a roof lantern and bifold doors opening directly onto the garden terrace. The result is a beautifully balanced living environment combining warmth, texture and contemporary open-plan design in a manner rarely achieved within newly constructed homes.

The first floor is equally impressive, centred around a dramatic gallery landing with cathedral-style vaulted ceilings and exposed oak framing in every direction, creating an architectural feature of genuine distinction. Designed with flexibility in mind, this expansive landing currently accommodates both a relaxed snug area and a homeworking space, while offering clear potential for adaptation into additional bedroom accommodation if required.

The bedroom arrangement comprises three generous double bedrooms, all enjoying elevated views over the gardens and grounds. Bedroom two benefits from a Juliet balcony and a private en-suite shower room, creating an ideal guest suite, while bedroom three incorporates fitted storage. The principal bedroom suite is particularly impressive, featuring a vaulted ceiling, Juliet balcony overlooking the rear gardens, a concealed dressing area with fitted storage and a luxurious en-suite bathroom finished to an exceptional standard. Throughout the first floor, the quality of finish remains consistently high, with soft neutral décor tones complemented by the exposed oak frame, creating an atmosphere that is both elegant and inviting.

Externally, The Willows continues to distinguish itself through the scale, privacy and versatility of its grounds and outbuildings. Accessed via electric gates from Fordwich Place, a sweeping driveway leads through the mature grounds towards the principal residence and extensive ancillary buildings. Immediately adjacent to the house is a substantial triple garage with oak-clad elevations and a pitched clay-tiled roof, designed specifically for vehicle storage and further benefitting from a mezzanine level within the roof void. A separate double garage provides additional secure parking and storage capacity.

Positioned within the gardens is a timber-clad summer house currently utilised as a garden reception room and home gym, featuring extensive glazing and dual access points through patio and sliding doors. In addition, a brick-built store believed to form part of the original waterworks structure remains within the grounds and now serves as a useful powered storage building, subtly reflecting the site’s heritage and history.

The gardens themselves are a remarkable feature, particularly given the property’s central Sandwich position. Extending to approximately 0.75 acres, the grounds are predominantly laid to lawn and framed by mature trees, established planting and enclosed boundaries that provide an exceptional sense of seclusion. Meandering pathways lead through the gardens towards a striking willow tree positioned above a private stream and water feature, creating a peaceful natural setting that attracts wildlife and enhances the atmosphere of the grounds throughout the seasons.

Situation - Sandwich remains one of Kent’s most desirable and architecturally significant towns, renowned for its medieval character, excellent amenities and exceptional connectivity. The Willows occupies a uniquely convenient yet private position within walking distance of the town centre and Sandwich railway station, offering direct access towards Canterbury and high-speed services to London. The surrounding area is particularly well regarded for its selection of respected schools, championship golf courses including Royal St George's Golf Club and Prince's Golf Club, and the nearby coastline and protected landscapes surrounding Sandwich Bay. This rare combination of architectural quality, privacy, grounds and central convenience creates a highly versatile home equally suited to growing families, lifestyle purchasers and those downsizing from larger country homes while wishing to remain connected to amenities and transport links.

Ground Floor -

Entrance Hall -

Shower Room -

Living Area (L-Shaped) - 6.22 x 7.77 (20'4" x 25'5") -

Dining Room - 3.39 x 6.28 (11'1" x 20'7") -

Kitchen - 3.42 x 4.29 (11'2" x 14'0") -

Utility Room - 3.22 x 3.45 (10'6" x 11'3") -

First Floor -

Landing - 4.39 x 9.84 (14'4" x 32'3") -

Snug/ Bedroom 4 -

Bedroom 1 - 5.15 x 7.00 (16'10" x 22'11") -

Dressing Room -

En-Suite Bathroom -

Bedroom 2 - 3.21 x 5.72 (10'6" x 18'9") -

En-Suite Shower -

Bedroom 3 - 2.96 x 4.25 (9'8" x 13'11") -

External -

Triple Garage (Double) - 5.96 x 6.24 (19'6" x 20'5") -

Triple Garage (Single) - 2.68 x 5.96 (8'9" x 19'6") -

Double Garage - 5.03 x 5.39 (16'6" x 17'8") -

Summer House - 3.44 x 7.14 (11'3" x 23'5") -

Brick Store/ Workshop (1) - 2.47 x 2.74 (8'1" x 8'11") -

Brick Store/ Workshop (2) - 2.45 x 2.87 (8'0" x 9'4") -

Agents Notes - This property will be sold with an existing New-Build Structural Warranty.