Sawbridgeworth · CM21
High Wych Road, Sawbridgeworth
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Live where horticultural history first flourished. This Grade II listed former home of the Rivers dynasty—pioneers of British pomology—combines timeless Georgian elegance with remarkable future potential. Set within 1.3 acres of established grounds, the property includes a self-contained two-bedroom annex and an outbuilding.
This is more than a home; it is a rare legacy, ready for its next custodian.
Own the story—arrange your viewing today.
The home, in the agent’s words
- Striking period features throughout
- Large double garage with electric door
- Underfloor heating
- Ideal for multi-generation living
- Prestigous location with a short walk to the town and train station
- 1.3 acres of historic grounds
- Planning approved for further enhancements
Read the full agent description
Set in the heart of Sawbridgeworth House is more than a residence; it is a living chapter of English history. Once home to Thomas Rivers, the pioneering horticulturist whose work reshaped fruit cultivation and brought him into correspondence with Charles Darwin, this distinguished Georgian house is steeped in over 300 years of botanical legacy.
Set within 1.3 acres of beautifully established heritage gardens, the main house offers four elegant bedrooms alongside a self-contained two-bedroom annex. presenting rare flexibility for multi-generational living or future investment. From refined reception rooms every space is designed to inspire and impress.
For those seeking a home with depth, character, and exceptional potential, Bonks Hill House represents a truly rare opportunity.
A refined Georgian home enriched with a contemporary artistic edge
The main house has four bright, beautifully proportioned bedrooms
Generous reception rooms with open fireplaces
Sleek, high-specification kitchen-diner overlooking the gardens with underfloor heating
A considered blend of period floors and fireplaces with elegant modern finishes
Adjoining annex with private living, kitchen & 2 bedrooms
Scope for multi-generational living or guest retreat
Sprawling 1.3-acre estate-style garden once part of the famed Rivers Nursery
Mature trees, historic plantings & open lawns
Large Double Garage with electric door
Shingle driveway with ample parking
Large Outbuilding/storage/office.
*All measurements are approximate and for guidance only. They should not be relied upon as statements of fact and buyers are advised to check measurements themselves.
House & garage: 4140 sq ft
Cellar: 90 sq ft
Barn: 1476 sq ft
4140 + 90 + 1476 = 5706 sq ft
🕰 Historical Legacy:
Home to the Rivers family, founders of Rivers Nursery (est. 1725)
Thomas Rivers pioneered new rose & fruit varieties—like the Early Rivers plum
His son, Thomas Francis Rivers, introduced the Conference pear
The family maintained a 400-acre nursery empire and published horticultural works still in use today
Direct ties to Charles Darwin through botanical collaboration
WWII: Requisitioned by the army; the house has stood through pivotal moments in British history
Now part of the Rivers Heritage Orchard movement
📍 Local Area:
Located in the picturesque Sawbridgeworth, steeped in agricultural and cultural heritage
Minutes to Sawbridgeworth train station with London Liverpool Street access
Excellent local schools, charming pubs, and independent shops
Walking distance to Rivers Heritage Orchard & community events
Quick access to Stansted Airport, M11, Bishop’s Stortford & Harlow
A feel for the area
Connected for everyday life
100%of homes in the postcode can access 100+ Mbps broadband.
Available speed bands
- 30+ Mbps
- 100%
- 100+ Mbps
- 100%
- 300+ Mbps
- 67%
- 1,000+ Mbps
- 33%
Getting about
0.9 milesto Sawbridgeworth Rail Station
Approximate straight-line distance · DfT NaPTAN · 13 Sept 2026Background air quality
- Fine particles · PM₂.₅
- 7.2 µg/m³ · Above the WHO guideline · well within the UK legal limit
- Nitrogen dioxide · NO₂
- 8.3 µg/m³ · Meets the WHO guideline
Annual background levels. For scale: the WHO 2021 guideline is 5 µg/m³ for PM₂.₅ and 10 for NO₂; the UK legal limit is 20 and 40. Lower is better; this is a 1 km model, not a reading at the door.
Defra · 2024 annual model · 1 km areaLocal information is approximate. Distances are straight-line estimates from the available location. Broadband describes postcode coverage, not the speed or service available at this home; check the address with a provider. Air quality is a modelled annual background estimate.
Picture your everyday
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The information provided in this listing is for general information purposes only and does not constitute property particulars. We make no warranties or guarantees, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, or availability of the information.
Property details are provided by the listing agent, developer, or other third parties, and we have no control over the content provided. Prospective buyers or tenants should make their own enquiries and verify all information directly with the agent or relevant party.
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