5 bed detached house for sale

Whelpley Hill, Chesham HP5

** Please quote SR0671 **

The Property:

Barton Colyers is an impressive Grade II listed Tudor Manor House, set within approximately 5 acres of picturesque grounds in the sought-after village of Whelpley Hill. Dating back to the mid-16th century, this historic property is brimming with period charm, offering equestrian facilities, formal gardens, a tennis court and a large paddock, making it a rare find in this desirable area.

The accommodation, arranged over three floors, showcases an abundance of character, with exposed beams, parquet and stone flag flooring, brace and latch doors, and open fireplaces. The generously sized drawing room features timber-panelled walls, an adjacent conservatory, and a red brick inglenook fireplace. The sitting room boasts a stunning herringbone parquet floor and a cosy cast iron multi-fuel burner. At the heart of the home is a remarkable 36ft kitchen/dining room with vaulted ceilings, exposed brick and timber features and French doors leading out to the garden patio. There is also a formal dining room with a minstrel gallery, a separate study, boot room and a ground-floor bedroom ideal for guests or flexible use as an office or playroom.

The first and second floors offer a versatile layout, with four additional bedrooms. The principal suite is a particular highlight, with exposed beams, wide plank timber flooring, a walk-in dressing room and an ensuite bathroom. There is also a family bathroom on the first floor, fitted to a high standard.

The property benefits from a range of outbuildings, including a substantial barn, a double garage and car port, a storeroom (perfect for a wine cellar), and four stables, ideal for equestrian use. There is also a potting shed that previously had planning permission for conversion into a self-contained annexe, offering further potential (subject to renewal of consent).

The extensive grounds are beautifully maintained and offer a mix of formal gardens, mature trees, an ancient pond and fruit orchards. The recently refurbished tennis court is an excellent addition, while the paddocks provide fantastic opportunities for equestrian activities or grazing. Access is via electrically operated gates, leading to a long driveway with ample parking.

Historical Note:

Extract taken from sales particulars in 1948, when the property was called Little Colyers: “Little Colyers is a property of considerable antiquity, and enquiries indicate that by the time of Henry VIII it had acquired status of a Manor House, whilst the discovery of the side of a Roman Camp close to the property shows that the property may have had historical connections of a much earlier date. The existence of a Priest Hole within the house suggest that importance of this residence both during the reign of Queen Elizabeth and during the later Civil Wars, when Roman Catholic priests, escaping to the West, would be afforded refuge. In this connection it is possible that the famous Father Campion, well known in local history, was given protection here. Ancient grazing rights on Boxmoor Common are still granted to the owner of “Little Colyers”.

The Location:

Whelpley Hill, a small rural village in the Chiltern Hills, Buckinghamshire, England, lies approximately 3 miles east of Chesham, 4 miles west of Hemel Hempstead, and around 5 miles southeast of Berkhamsted. The village forms part of the civil parish of Ashley Green and is situated within the stunning Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (aonb), offering scenic countryside and a tranquil atmosphere.

The village benefits from a strong community spirit and several local amenities, including a village hall that hosts community events and a recreation ground with a children's play area and open spaces for leisure. At the heart of the village is the historic public house, The White Hart, which dates back centuries and serves as a hub for social gatherings, offering food, drinks, and a warm atmosphere for both residents and visitors.

Barton Colyers enjoys excellent transport links. Chesham Underground Station is just an 8-minute drive away, providing access to London via the Metropolitan Line, while Hemel Hempstead Train Station is under 10 minutes away, offering a direct 30-minute service into London Euston. The M25 and M1 are both easily accessible within a 10-minute drive. The area also offers excellent schooling options, including Chesham Preparatory School, Chesham Grammar School and the Dr Challoner’s Grammar Schools.