School RoadSaxlingham, Holt, Norfolk, NR25 7JZ

Saxlingham Place (otherwise known as Heydon Hall) was built by Sir John Heydon of Baconsthorpe Castle in the 16th century. Having fallen into ruin, the current owners embarked on an extensive renovation in 1985. The house is Grade II listed, and a Scheduled Ancient Monument, thus all works were carried out in collaboration with English Heritage, Norfolk Archeology, the NNDC conservation architect and a structural engineer. The Hall's integrity and history was preserved whilst adding space, accommodation and facilities to provide for modern day living. The process included true craftmanship, from the joinery to the flint work, with the inclusion of new (in 1985) oak mullioned windows with stained glass, designed and installed by Lilian Shaw, stained glass artist, and stone and flintwork to tie in with the existing 16th century materials. The overall effect is visually impressive both inside and out, and one can be forgiven for thinking that the whole house is 16th century and original.

At the heart of it all is a wonderful Hall room. A double height and atmospheric room with vaulted ceilings, a huge gallery, and a striking fireplace with herringbone brickwork complete with woodburner to keep the Hall toasty on the coldest of winter days. It is an incredible room, with lovely light from south facing windows and glazed doors opening to the walled garden. It is a multi-functional space that can adapt to many lifestyles. A functional kitchen/breakfast room conveniently adjoins a spacious dining room, triple aspect, with central Aga providing that omnipresent meeting point. A living room, with floor to ceiling windows, has a more contemporary feel and is a very comfortable and relaxing space, whilst at the opposite end of the house is a study/library, a cosy room with fireplace and woodburner, fitted shelving and a fine view out over the garden. This room could also serve as a bedroom. Practicality is provided by a laundry/utility room with bespoke cabinetry.

A striking main staircase leads up to the gallery, where a bay window looks out over the walled garden. At the top of the stairs is a fun bunk room, above the entrance hall below and a great space for children. The gallery then leads round to a double bedroom with en suite shower room, tucked away from the main bedrooms. In the middle of the house is the capacious principal bedroom, a fine room, with vaulted ceilings and conveniently next to the family bathroom. This is again spacious, with large roll top bath and shower, and has a Jack and Jill arrangement as it also serves two bedrooms on the west side of the house. This part of the house is reached by a second staircase, and hosts two double bedrooms.

Throughout the house are constant reminders of the thought that went into the building, with oak flooring, bespoke ironmongery, and eye catching windows.

As soon as you arrive at Saxlingham Place, there is an immediate calming feel to the setting. A gravel drive leads up to the house, with two large ponds either side connected by a small channel which the drive passes over, before continuing up to the rear of the house, parking, turning areas and the barn.

The house sits centrally within its 3.8 acres, providing a high degree of privacy. The only neighbour within sight is the village church. A highlight of the grounds is the walled garden, perfectly positioned to the south of the house. This enclosed area is expansive, with sweeping lawns, well stocked shrubbed borders, and areas of flowerbeds. Running along the south of the house is a terraced area, with a pergola at one end, with these areas as a whole providing the ideal spot for al fresco dining, entertaining and relaxing, It is a sheltered sun trap, whilst also providing shade.

To the north of the house is a parterre originally of box and yew topiary designed by Leslie Smith Fine Artist (www.lesliesmithart.com) see "Garden Paintings". Sadly the box succumbed to box blight but has recently been replaced. Designed and laid out to complement the house, with paths and established forms of yew, including archways, it is a fitting backdrop to the house. The land then stretches out to an open area of meadow, ideal for a pony or two, or perhaps for further landscaping, football and rugby or simply to maintain as is. The boundaries are mature hedging and trees. Along all boundaries is an area of woodland to enjoy, with the combination of the woods and ponds creating a haven for local wildlife. and opportunity for messing about in boats.

The barn provides excellent storage, with two garages, and a three bay cart lodge. This area has its own courtyard behind flint walls, and works well for boat storage, vehicles, bikes and other lifestyle equipment. The building also presents an opportunity for other uses.

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