Brook House is a striking and historic Arts & Crafts mansion on the rural outskirts of Ardingly. Originally believed to be a shooting lodge, the property was substantially extended during the late 1800s, creating a magnificent house drawing inspiration from classic Tudor architecture, with beam and plasterwork gables and impressive stone mullioned windows. Brook House was subsequently divided into 12 select leasehold apartments, each with a share of the freehold.

Flat 5, also known as The Belfry, is a superb second floor, two bedroom split-level apartment, comprising the south western corner of the mansion and offering approximately 1,413 square feet of accommodation, the full layout of which can be seen on the accompanying floorplans. Original period features include high ceilings, mullioned masonry casement windows (with secondary glazing overlaid), fireplaces in both the sitting room (feature) and bedroom one, and a stunning stained glass window of historic interest in bedroom one.

The property would be well suited as a second home or lock up and leave, as well as a primary residence.

The entrance is via an impressive communal reception hall. A turned staircase rises to The Belfry's private front door, which opens directly to a further staircase leading to the hall; the hall is fitted with a series of very useful eaves storage cupboards with automatic lights. The spacious dual aspect sitting room has a modern feature fireplace set on a slate hearth, and has space for both sofas and a dining table. The kitchen is fitted with a range of modern white gloss units, with dark wood worktops, a central island with breakfast bar and feature pendant lighting over, and a range of high-end integrated appliances.

There are two bedrooms: bedroom one is dual-aspect with a stained glass window, a fireplace set with a BD&Co woodburner and a range of fitted bookshelving with a desk; the bedroom is served by a separate bathroom with white suite and could be used as a second reception room. Bedroom two has fitted wardrobes with mirrored doors and an en suite shower room, the shower having a steam function.

In addition to the generous eaves storage in the apartment, the property benefits from a further good-sized storage area, accessed just off the short flight of stairs leading to the front door.

Outside
Brook House is approached via a sweeping driveway, leading through the park-like communal grounds to the parking circle ahead of the house.

The beautiful gardens extend to about 13 acres and have been landscaped to provide distinct points of interest, including undulating lawns set with established flowering shrubs, a paved raised terrace with space for table and chairs, and a lovely series of ponds throughout the grounds. The property has the benefit of a private garden shed.

To the west of the communal gardens is Brook House Cricket Ground, one of the oldest cricket pitches in Britain.

Agent's Note
The 12 properties in the main house are held on 125 year leases from 1 April 2004.

To facilitate the management of the buildings and communal areas, the Freehold interest is vested in a holding company of which each owner is a Director holding one twelfth share.

The annual service charge is reviewed regularly. The current charge is £4,154.50 per annum, which includes maintenance of the house, gardens and road, and the private drainage.

The red outline on the main photo is to identify the position of the apartment only, it does not indicate ownership of all parts of the building outlined.

View payable Stamp Duty for this property