eyhorne manor, hollingbourne, kent

Eyhorne ManorEyhorne Street | Hollingbourne | Maidstone | Kent | ME17 1UU

Eyhorne Manor 8 pg_v3.indd 1 23/06/2015 09:53

Eyhorne ManorThis delightful Grade II Listed Wealden house, which is believed to date back to the early 15th Century, is set in gardens of a quarter of an acre on the outskirts of the village of Hollingbourne. Eyhorne Manor provides versatile accommodation, having up to seven bedrooms and providing the option of an annexe.

“Twenty years ago, we were looking for a lovely house, which also had accommodation for my mum within walking distance of amenities,” recalls David. “I just loved the Manor as soon as I saw it from the outside – it apparently dates back to 1410 and is noted for having a rare smoke loft, which is visible in the vaulted area of the main kitchen. However, the house was also in a great location and effectively offered mum a two-bedroom cottage with its own staircase, a study landing, a bathroom, a kitchen and two reception rooms; yet it was interconnected on two floors so it could also be part of the main house.”

“The house had stood empty for some years but had undergone major structural restoration before we bought it,” explains Jonathan. “However, it still needed timber treatment, re-wiring, re-plumbing and total refurbishment to make it comfortable. We didn’t know the top floor was there until we discovered a drop-down staircase with pulleys. It was just one big room with a dormer window, so we installed a permanent staircase and inserted another dormer, dividing the space into two bedrooms and a shower room.”

“The main dining room with the massive inglenook became the gathering place for the family – we’ve seated 20 there for Christmas,” continues David. “It’s a very happy, welcoming house. We’ve done lots of entertaining, especially in the summer when we’ve used the garden, which is private and secluded with its courtyard and sunken area. We held a masquerade party once, hosting 300 guests for a friend’s 50th birthday, which went on till about 5am! The Mercure Hotel down the road has proved handy for accommodating lots of people coming from a distance.”

“Other local amenities include Hollingbourne’s popular primary school, a village shop, a hairdresser and a number of pubs, including the Windmill Inn gastropub,” adds Jonathan. “Hollingbourne Station connects to London Victoria, or you can use Ebbsfleet or Ashford International. Gatwick is about 40 minutes, Dover half an hour, the Tunnel 20 minutes. The proximity of the M20 is incredibly convenient but, as it’s in a deep cutting, you’re not bothered by it; similarly, the high speed rail link bypasses Hollingbourne in a tunnel. Nearby Bearsted is good for larger shops and has a doctors’ surgery – it’s not necessary to go into Maidstone.”

“The land between the Manor and the railway tunnel had planning permission, so to prevent adverse building, we bought it and constructed our own small low-rise house, which isn’t visible from the Manor,” conclude David and Jonathan. “The Manor’s too large for us now but we’ll miss its special character and warm atmosphere.”*

David, Jonathan

* These comments are the personal views of the current owner and are included as an insight into life at the property. They have not been independently verified, should not be relied on without verification and do not necessarily reflect the views of the agent.


PROPERTY FEATURES

Seven Bedroom Residence

Incorporating an Internal Two Bedroom Annexe

Grade II Listed

Period Character Throughout

Edge of Village Location

M20 and Mainline Rail Station Nearby

MAIN DESCRIPTION

No Chain Sale This historic home is located on the fringes of one of North Kent’s most attractive villages. Hollingbourne abounds with character and enjoys country pubs, restaurants, village stores, a primary school and most importantly its own mainline rail station. In addition the village is handily placed to allow quick access to the motorway network. The mainstream amenities of Maidstone and its suburbs are all within a short drive. Schooling facilities are particularly plentiful, with a selection of secondary and selective Grammar schools being found within Maidstone. For those considering private education the renowned Sutton Valence school is easily reached as is its adjacent prep school.

The property itself is believed to have origins that date back to the 15th Century and was Grade II Listed in recognition of its beautiful structure - much of which is still evident throughout. Currently the property is configured with seven bedrooms served by three main reception rooms and two kitchens. Its internal layout clearly provides flexibility of use as a main dwelling with an internal annexe.

This unique home enjoys a balanced plot that amounts to approximately 0.25 acres. The gardens are well planned, mature and extend away from the driveway to the front and both sides of the home. At the rear is a large paved courtyard that provides an excellent space for outside dining and entertainment. An adjacent outbuilding with the benefit of power, light and plumbing serves as a laundry house. The property benefits from its own driveway which is well screened and can easily accommodate several parked vehicles.


Agents notes: All measurements are approximate and quoted in metric with imperial equivalents and for general guidance only and whilst every attempt has been made to ensure accuracy, they must not be relied on. The fixtures, fittings and appliances referred to have not been tested and therefore no guarantee can be given that they are in working order. Internal photographs are reproduced for general information and it must not be inferred that any item shown is included with the property. For a free valuation, contact the numbers listed on the brochure. Printed 23.06.2015

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EPC Exempt


Fine & Country West Malling 28 High Street, West Malling, Kent ME19 6QR

Tel 01732 222272


eyhorne manor, hollingbourne, kent

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