Little Totham

Background & History

Believed to date from the 16th or 17th Century, this exceptional Grade II listed country residence has been sympathetically enhanced by the current owners to an outstanding standard. Every improvement has been carefully considered to preserve the property's rich heritage, period character and original charm, while seamlessly incorporating the comforts and conveniences of modern family living.

The property has been significantly extended and upgraded to an exceptionally high specification, including the addition of a heated outdoor swimming pool complete with its own dedicated Pool House. Occupying approximately 12.9 acres, the estate also benefits from an impressive collection of traditional outbuildings, garages, stabling and beautifully established grounds.

Setting & Location

Occupying an idyllic semi-rural position, the property enjoys the perfect balance of countryside tranquillity and excellent accessibility. The nearby towns of Maldon, Tiptree and Witham provide an excellent range of everyday amenities, whilst the A12 and mainline railway stations at Witham and Hatfield Peverel offer convenient connections to London and beyond.

To the south lies the picturesque River Blackwater, renowned for its sailing opportunities at Heybridge Basin, Tollesbury and West Mersea, together with scenic riverside walks and riding routes. The surrounding countryside offers an extensive network of footpaths and bridleways, making it ideal for equestrian enthusiasts, walkers and nature lovers alike. The area is also particularly popular with birdwatchers due to its rich wildlife and protected habitats.

The nearby village of Great Totham offers a well-regarded primary school, village shop and a selection of popular public houses, while more comprehensive shopping, leisure and dining facilities can be found in Maldon, Chelmsford and Colchester.

Families are exceptionally well catered for, with the property falling within the catchment area for Chelmsford's highly regarded Grammar Schools, whilst also offering convenient access to the grammar schools of Colchester. A selection of excellent independent schools, including Holmwood House, Elm Green Preparatory School, Maldon Court Preparatory School, New Hall and Felsted School, are all within comfortable reach.

Ground Floor Accommodation

Entering through the principal entrance, you are welcomed into a characterful reception hall where exposed timber beams immediately showcase the property's historic origins. A bespoke bar area creates an inviting space for entertaining and sets the tone for the accommodation beyond.

To the eastern side of the house lies the original reception room, centred around what is believed to be the property's original fireplace, creating a wonderfully atmospheric living space full of period charm. Beyond, a light-filled conservatory is currently arranged as an elegant formal dining room, enjoying uninterrupted views across the gardens.

The western wing of the property has been thoughtfully modelled to create an impressive open-plan kitchen and dining area. Designed for both everyday living and entertaining, the kitchen features a generous central breakfast island and flows effortlessly into a beautifully extended living room, where large glazed doors open directly onto the gardens and surrounding grounds.

Adjoining the living room is a practical utility room together with a cloakroom/WC, benefiting from direct external access to the gardens.

First Floor Accommodation

The property offers a thoughtfully arranged first floor, providing an excellent degree of flexibility whilst naturally separating family and principal accommodation.

To the eastern side of the house, a traditional staircase rises to a spacious landing serving three generous double bedrooms, each benefitting from fitted wardrobes and delightful views across the gardens, grounds and surrounding countryside.

The family bathroom has been beautifully appointed and comprises a freestanding bath with handheld shower attachment, a separate walk-in shower fitted with an Aquatreat shower unit, a wide vanity wash basin with mixer tap, heated towel rail, fully tiled walls and contrasting tiled flooring.

From the western side of the property, a separate staircase ascends from the living area to the impressive principal suite. This private wing comprises a fully fitted dressing room, a luxurious fully tiled en-suite bathroom with walk-in rainfall shower and a magnificent principal bedroom featuring a vaulted ceiling and Juliet balcony overlooking the spectacular grounds.

Outbuildings, Gardens & Grounds

Approached via a shared farm drive, the property is accessed through impressive electrically operated wooden entrance gates set within an attractive mellow red brick wall. A sweeping gravel driveway leads through the estate to an extensive parking area beside the house, passing an impressive collection of traditional outbuildings before arriving at a further set of automated gates serving the principal residence.

The outbuildings provide exceptional versatility. A magnificent traditional Essex Barn currently provides extensive storage, while an adjoining building has been converted into a comfortable home office.

Opposite the courtyard lies a further range of former stable buildings, now utilised for garden machinery and general storage, together with a substantial four-bay garage fitted with electrically operated roller shutter doors. Subject to individual requirements, the former stables could readily be reinstated for equestrian use with relatively minor alteration.

A separate branch of the driveway continues beyond the barn to provide access to the attractive tree-lined paddock.

The formal gardens are an outstanding feature of the property, extending around the house and predominantly laid to lawn with mature shrub borders and established planting. The gardens are beautifully enclosed on three sides by the property's picturesque moat, creating an exceptional sense of privacy and character.

A contemporary timber deck has been constructed over part of the southern section of the moat, providing an idyllic setting for outdoor entertaining whilst enjoying uninterrupted views across the landscape. A pathway continues around the far side of the moat, allowing full appreciation of this unique setting.

Further leisure facilities include a heated outdoor swimming pool complemented by a dedicated Pool House, incorporating WC, shower and changing facilities.

A substantial summerhouse, currently arranged as a private gym, is positioned within the grounds, while a sauna and hot tub are available by separate negotiation.

To the west of the house lies a mature orchard, adding further appeal to this remarkable country home.

The formal gardens extend to approximately 3.8 acres, with additional paddocks and surrounding land bringing the total site area to approximately 12.9 acres, offering exceptional lifestyle and equestrian potential.