Spring Lane, Lexden Bridge Hamlet

Purchased by the current owners in 2015 as a modest three-bedroom property in a state of disrepair, The Grist Mill has since undergone an extensive and sympathetic programme of refurbishment and extension. The result is an exceptional home extending to approximately 4,570 sq ft, including the outbuildings, combining the character and heritage of the original property with superb contemporary finishes and highly considered modern design.

History

The history of the site is particularly fascinating. Records trace milling here back to 1455, when two mills stood on opposite sides of the River Colne: a substantial corn, or ‘grist’, mill and a smaller fulling mill. The setting also has an intriguing connection with the Siege of Colchester in 1648, when Lord Fairfax and his Parliamentary forces are understood to have crossed the river at the ford beside the mill during their approach to the town.

For centuries, milling shaped the character of this riverside setting. The Grist Mill remained in industrial use through successive generations, initially as a corn mill and subsequently as an oil mill, before the surviving building was converted into a private residence in 1975.

The current owners’ vision has been to preserve the spirit and character of this remarkable property while creating a highly individual contemporary home. Natural light, carefully frame views of the river and a strong connection with the surrounding landscape have been central to the design. Modern sustainability has also been integral, with solar generation, 17kW battery storage, EV charging, underfloor heating and a Thermia water-to-water heat pump, which harnesses renewable energy from the River Colne. The property has achieved an impressive EPC rating of A.

Accommodation

Ground floor

Inside, the accommodation is exceptionally spacious and thoughtfully arranged, with capacious open-plan living forming the heart of the home. An impressive reception hall immediately sets the tone, with high ceilings and polished concrete flooring extending throughout the ground floor, complemented by underfloor heating. Underfloor heating is also provided on the first floor.

The hugely impressive open-plan living space has been cleverly zoned to create distinct yet connected areas for relaxing and entertaining, incorporating a sitting room, living area and dining space. The bespoke Shaker-style kitchen is a particular highlight, featuring two substantial islands and a superb level of specification.
Bi-fold doors and three sets of French doors open directly onto a wraparound balcony, creating a wonderful connection between the interior and the riverside setting and providing an exceptional space for entertaining or simply enjoying the tranquillity of the River Colne.

Off the kitchen is a large and highly practical utility room, which in turn provides access to a shower room with WC. A separate dual-aspect family room provides a more intimate and cosy space for evenings at home, while the ground floor is completed by a well-appointed home office.

First floor

A striking galleried landing leads to four bedrooms and the family bathroom. The principal bedroom suite is particularly impressive, featuring a partly vaulted bedroom, generous dressing room and stylish en-suite shower room. Bedroom two is equally well appointed, with its own dressing room and en-suite shower room.

The result is a rare and compelling combination of centuries-old heritage, exceptional riverside tranquillity, architectural design and sophisticated, energy-efficient modern living.

Outside

Occupying grounds approx 2.25 acres.

The Grist Mill is approached through electric gates, opening onto an expansive driveway providing excellent parking and access to the detached double garage. The garage incorporates a WC, while the first floor provides a versatile additional room with its own bathroom. Arranged over two storeys, the building offers considerable flexibility and could lend itself to use as ancillary accommodation, subject to the necessary planning consents.

The beautifully landscaped grounds provide a wonderfully private and tranquil setting, with the River Colne forming an important part of the property's character and sense of place.
A particular feature is the elegant 33ft greenhouse, which was formerly attached to the main house and provides a charming reminder of the property's historic character. Set within the landscaped gardens, it offers considerable scope for gardening enthusiasts, entertaining or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

The combination of extensive parking, versatile outbuildings, landscaped gardens, and the unique riverside setting make the outside space an exceptional complement to the main residence.

What's nearby

Colchester is a thriving ‘new’ city set in North Essex, bordering Suffolk which is only a few miles away. The town boasts nationally acclaimed Grammar schools, fast and speedy links to London in less than an hour, and a thriving town centre, as well as first class out of town retail centres. The lovely Colne valley is within 15 minutes’ drive of the centre, and the pink towns of Suffolk are a mere twenty minutes’ drive from the town. Mersea Island, Brightlingsea, and Frinton, all stunning coastal destinations are within half an hour’s drive of the town, and Suffolk’s resorts of Aldeburgh and Southwold within an hour.

Schools

• Colchester Royal Grammar School, Colchester Girls High, St Mary’s, Philip Morant, St Benedicts, Oxford House, Colchester High School, Hamilton Road Primary, Prettygate Primary – all walking distance.
• Holmwood House
• Bus stop to Ipswich school, Gosfield, Royal Hospital, St Joseph’s College and Ipswich School -

Colchester North and Town Stations - (London Liverpool Street 50 mins)

Mercury Theatre and cinemas

Hilly Fields Nature Reserve – walking distance

Lexden Park Nature Reserve – walking distance