College RoadArdingly, Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH17 6TU

Culpepers is a fine example of classic Arts and Crafts architecture, designed by Harold George Turner and dating from the early 1920s; it has an interesting history, being built for Viscountess Wolseley, the influential gardening author and founder of Glynde College for Lady Gardeners. In time, the property passed privately to Leonard Keir Hett, a renowned architect and local figure, and has remained in the same family since 1948.

Now coming to the open market for the first time, the property offers a superb opportunity, situated in a generous 1.8 acre plot and occupying an enviable position in the heart of a popular village. Culpepers holds immense potential and scope for modernisation and showcases an array of wonderful original features and period details, including open fireplaces, decorative plaster reliefs, beautiful wood panelled cupboards and doors, and the original wood framed, cast iron lattice windows which frame the breathtaking southerly views to the South Downs.

The property has a substantial footprint and occupies a desirable position within its plot, and offers an excellent opportunity for conversion and updating, subject to the necessary consents and permissions.

The full extent and layout of the house can be seen on the accompanying floorplans, but briefly comprises two reception rooms, breakfast room, kitchen, pantry, cloakroom, and a studio, which is a later single storey addition. The dining room is of particular note, with a large, inglenook fireplace with herringbone paved hearth and a quote from St Francis carved into the oak beam, in classic Arts and Crafts style; there is a door leading to the south facing loggia.

On the first floor are four bedrooms (one with en suite bathroom and one with a dressing room with basin), a family bathroom and separate WC. A ladder gives access to the generous, fully boarded attic space.

Outbuildings with planning permission
There are two substantial outbuildings: a timber framed barn and a brick and timber two storey workshop/apple store. These buildings have the benefit of full planning permission for the “erection of a link building between two existing barns and the conversion into a single residential dwelling” which would create further accommodation comprising open plan reception room, three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Plans can be viewed on the MSDC planning portal, ref DM/17/4117.

Gardens and Grounds
11 College Road is situated in a tucked away location at the end of a long drive, with open fields to the south. The gardens are of particular note; to the front is a substantial kitchen garden, with beds planted. An orchard and small paddock, currently used for sheep, lies to the west.

The formal gardens are fully enclosed, with a charming loggia and terrace, with the reminder mainly laid to lawn with some beds planted.

There is ample parking ahead of the house, and a single storey attached outbuilding offers open bay garaging and storage.

View payable Stamp Duty for this property