Exceptional Georgian country house in village setting offering substantial, characterful accommodation over four levels in magnificent mature gardens of around 4 acres.
Amwell Grove dates to circa 1794. Surrounded by gardens, the three storey, T shaped house is built of yellow brick with stucco bands. The front north garden overlooks the New River and meadow land below.
This Grade II listed family home is approached from Cautherly Lane via white wooden painted gates flanked by curved screen flint walls.
Accommodation
A classical pillared loggia porch marks the front entrance and doors open to a fine reception hall which includes a Robert Mylne initialled plaque. From here there is access to the principal reception rooms. The ground floor includes a library with vaulted ceiling, gas stove and doors opening to a sunny terrace. The sitting room overlooks the garden and features a large bay window, an original fireplace, and double doors opening onto the gardens. The dining room has dual aspect and links with the eat-in kitchen.
The first floor comprises of a master suite, with dressing room and en-suite bathroom. There are 4 further bedrooms on the first floor and 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), a linen cupboard and laundry.
The second floor provides 3 additional bedrooms and a family bathroom.
The lower ground floor / cellar is accessed via the inner hallway and from the garden. There are various storage rooms, a wine cellar and an annexe with kitchen and shower room.
History
In 1794-7 Robert Mylne, architect, civil engineer and Chief Engineer to the New River Company, designed and built Amwell Grove as a weekend residence, overlooking the New River, landscaping much of the surrounding ground.
Robert Mylne particularly remembered for his design of Blackfriars Bridge in London. Born and raised in Edinburgh, he travelled to Europe as a young man, studying architecture in Rome under Piranesi.
On his return to Britain, Mylne won the competition to design the new Blackfriars Bridge over the Thames in London, his design being chosen over those of established engineers, such as John Smeaton. He was appointed surveyor to the New River Company, which supplied drinking water to London, and to St Paul's Cathedral, where he was responsible for maintaining the building designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Both positions he held for life. Mylne designed a number of country houses and city buildings, as well as bridges. As his career progressed he concentrated more on engineering, writing reports on harbours and advising on canals, and appearing as an expert witness in lawsuits and trials.
Outside
The house and grounds are approached through painted double gates which open onto a gravel driveway. The drive continues to the front of the house while providing access to the double garage.
The grounds at Amwell Grove include lawns to the north east bordered by mature trees and a terrace which extends the full width of the house and is ideal for al fresco entertaining. Beyond, there is potential for reinstatement of disused tennis court, Victorian kitchen garden , flint stone potting shed and paddock.
View payable Stamp Duty for this property
A magnificent "home for life" in a lovely spot close to river walks and open parkland
Justin Godfrey