Chenies, Rickmansworth, Buckinghamshire, WD3

Steeped in history and architectural significance, Chenies Place is a distinguished Grade II Listed residence of exceptional heritage.

Description

Steeped in history and architectural significance, Chenies Place is a distinguished Grade II Listed residence of exceptional heritage. Formerly part of a larger late 19th century residence known as Woodside, it became home to the Dowager Duchess of Bedford in 1893. Later enhanced by the architect Charles Eamer Kempe, the house retains a wealth of period character.

As befits this impressive Victorian residence, the home makes a striking first impression with its characterful brick façade, enhanced by exceptional landscaping and a mature wisteria adorning the front elevation. The property enters into a spacious entrance hall, where an open fireplace, elegant staircase and bespoke cabinetry set a refined tone. The principal drawing room is particularly generous, enjoying a triple aspect, with two marble fireplaces creating distinct seating areas. French doors open onto the garden, and architectural columns frame a striking window beyond, enhancing the room’s sense of scale and light. The formal dining room features an original fireplace and has a unique history as a former chapel. To the rear, the kitchen/breakfast room is fitted with decorative tiled flooring, gloss cabinetry and integrated appliances, with space for informal dining. A separate utility room adds practicality, while the cellars below provide excellent storage, including a wine store.

Upstairs, the first floor is arranged around a split-level landing. The principal suite includes a generous dressing room and en suite bathroom. There are three additional bedrooms, one with en suite facilities, alongside a well-appointed family bathroom. A charming side room with a curved bay window and window seat offers a delightful reading nook.

Outside
The property is embraced on three sides by its spectacular landscaped gardens, commissioned by the Duchess of Bedford and designed by the renowned partnership of Edwin Lutyens and Gertrude Jekyll. The gardens are quintessentially characteristic of their collaboration, featuring elegant formal brick landscaping with carefully structured terraces, geometric pathways and thoughtfully positioned steps that guide the eye through the space. Rich herbaceous borders soften the architecture, planted with seasonal perennials. A particularly striking feature is the Grade II listed pergola, octagonal in shape and featuring climbing roses, it forms a focal point within a formal courtyard garden bordered by clipped hedging.

Within the wider grounds are further Grade II* listed features, including a charming sundial and a brick bridge that crosses the River Chess as it meanders gently through the landscape. Sweeping lawns are bordered by crisp hedging, offering both openness and privacy. There is also an attractive water garden. A generous brick terrace provides the perfect setting for al fresco dining and entertaining, surrounded by established shrubbery that ensures a high degree of seclusion. The property also benefits from a private driveway providing parking and a brick-built garage, completing this exceptional and beautifully composed outdoor setting.

Location

Chenies is a highly sought-after and picturesque village, set within the Chess Valley on the edge of the Chiltern Hills National Landscape, with Chenies Place located to the north of the village. The village itself benefits from a close-knit community, a parish church and traditional country pubs, The Bedford Arms Hotel and The Red Lion. Everyday amenities are available in nearby Rickmansworth, Chorleywood and Amersham, all of which offer a wide range of shops, restaurants and supermarkets. Schooling in the area is well regarded, with Chenies School in the village and a number of excellent state and independent schools nearby.

Communications are convenient, with the Metropolitan and Chiltern lines providing direct access to Baker Street and Marylebone from Chorleywood and Rickmansworth stations. The M25 is easily accessible at Junction 18, offering links to the wider motorway network.

The surrounding area offers excellent leisure facilities, including golf at Moor Park Golf Club, alongside a variety of tennis, cricket, rugby and football clubs locally. The surrounding countryside provides a wealth of scenic walks, bridle paths and riding opportunities.

Square Footage: 3,754 sq ft


Acreage: 1 Acres