In one of the historic market towns of Suffolk county, a building built in medieval cellars with stone arches is put up for sale. Annabelle Dixon is watching.
The striking Grade I listed townhouse that writer Nora Lofts once called “home” is up for sale for £2.75m.
Nestled in the heart of historic Suffolk market town Bury St Edmunds, Northgate House is steeped in history. The six bedroom property was built primarily in the 18th century. But it stands atop medieval cellars with stone arches, and some of the roof beams are believed to date from the 17th century or earlier.
Lofts is believed to have lived at Northgate House from 1955 until 1983, when she died. According to Great British Life, the writer has written more than 40 historical novels, as well as short stories, biographies, children’s books and other non-fiction. Her historical prose, which includes the Suffolk trilogy, was often inspired by the area.
Northgate House has been refurbished and updated in recent years, and its interiors are fresh and modern. But it still has plenty of vintage charm, including a three-story Georgian porch, full-height casement windows, detailed cornices, wood-paneled walls, and open fireplaces. The decorative ceiling in the living room is a real decoration.
On the ground floor, bright, well-proportioned rooms include a reception room, living room, dining room and kitchen. There is also a music room, a wardrobe, a cozy room, a storage room and a laundry room with all modern conveniences.
A grand staircase leads to the master bedroom and bathroom, as well as five more bedrooms, two walk-in closets, four bathrooms and a living room.
There are plenty of opportunities for the next owner of Northgate House to put their stamp on it. Two walk-in closets can easily be converted into bedrooms. And there is also a wing of the house, which used to be rented out as a separate apartment. It currently includes a living room, kitchen and shower room.
The sprawling property has a total area of nearly 10,000 square feet.
Peter Ogilvy, real estate agent for real estate brokerage Savills, says: “This is a truly amazing townhouse and definitely one of the best I have seen in my career. It has been refurbished and refurbished with exceptional taste, in which the old charm is perfectly combined with modern style.”
Northgate House is located on a 0.58 acre plot of land. Its mature, walled garden is meticulously landscaped, including paths, flower beds, a paved terrace and vegetable garden. There is also a very important storage shed and parking for four cars.
The house is located on Northgate Street, a stone’s throw from the award-winning 14-acre Abbey Gardens (on the site of a former Benedictine abbey, St Edmund’s Abbey) and St Edmundsbury Cathedral. It is also close to the A14 with easy access to places like Newmarket, home of horse racing, as well as Cambridge and Stowmarket.
Northgate House is currently listed for sale through Savills with an estimated price of £2.75m – see more photos or ask the agent for more information.
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