Little Canfield, Essex

An exceptional Grade II-style country residence of remarkable character and scale, extending to over 6,000 square feet set within landscaped grounds with a coach house, swimming pool, tennis court, woodland and ornamental moat.

Occupying an enchanting rural setting on the edge of the highly regarded village of Little Canfield, Canfield Moat is an impressive detached country house of considerable elegance and provenance. Originally constructed in 1839 for Reverend Charles Lesingham Smith of Cambridge University, the property has been thoughtfully enhanced and extended over the years to create a distinguished family home that seamlessly combines period charm with modern comfort.

Constructed of attractive Cambridge yellow brick beneath a slate roof, the house enjoys beautifully proportioned accommodation arranged over two floors, with an abundance of natural light and a superb balance of formal and informal living spaces ideal for both family life and entertaining.

A welcoming reception hall forms the heart of the home, featuring exposed timber flooring, an impressive fireplace with wood-burning stove and a sweeping staircase rising to the first floor. The principal reception rooms are particularly impressive and include a substantial drawing room, a formal dining room and a dual-aspect study, together with an outstanding 34 ft music room, providing an exceptional entertaining environment for larger gatherings and special occasions.

The kitchen and breakfast room is a superb family space, fitted with an extensive range of farmhouse-style cabinetry and integrated appliances, complemented by ample room for informal dining. Supporting accommodation includes a utility room, pantry and cellar, providing excellent practical storage. Further ground-floor highlights include a library and a dedicated gymnasium.

The first floor is accessed via two separate staircases and offers seven beautifully appointed double bedrooms. The luxurious principal suite features a substantial dressing room and an elegant en-suite bathroom complete with a central spa bath and walk-in rainfall shower. Two further bedrooms benefit from en-suite facilities, while a well-appointed family bathroom serves the remaining accommodation.

Guest Accommodation - The detached Coach House provides exceptional ancillary accommodation, perfectly suited for guests, extended family or staff. Arranged over two floors, it includes a sitting room, fully fitted kitchen and two en suite bedrooms on the ground floor, with a further double bedroom, bathroom and generous storage room on the upper level.

Outbuildings & Amenities - A notable feature of Canfield Moat is its extensive collection of ancillary buildings, offering remarkable versatility. These include a former triple garage now converted into a dance studio complete with kitchen and cloakroom facilities, together with a substantial workshop, wood store, garage and a range of additional stores ideal for machinery, equipment and general storage.

Gardens & Grounds - Canfield Moat is approached through electric gates onto a magnificent oak-lined driveway, which winds through the grounds before arriving at an expansive gravelled forecourt and parking area. The landscaped gardens and grounds are a particular triumph, extending to an exceptional parkland-style setting that blends formal gardens, mature woodland and open meadowland. Extensive York stone terraces provide superb spaces for outdoor entertaining and al fresco dining, whilst the heated swimming pool is surrounded by a generous sun terrace and complemented by an impressive pool house featuring a kitchen, hot tub, sauna and shower facilities. Beyond the formal gardens lie sweeping lawns punctuated by mature specimen trees, peaceful woodland walks and an enchanting circular entertaining area complete with fire pit and permanent bar. An established orchard produces a variety of apple, pear, plum, cherry and quince trees, while secluded meadows and a picturesque ornamental pond, created from the property’s original moat, further enhance the sense of tranquillity. A professionally installed tennis court by Doe Sport Ltd completes the estate’s outstanding leisure offering.

Situation - The property enjoys a peaceful countryside setting close to Canfield village and approximately two miles from the historic market town of Great Dunmow. The village offers a convenience store, public house and village hall, while Great Dunmow provides a comprehensive range of everyday amenities, independent shops and supermarkets. The area is renowned for its excellent educational provision, including the highly regarded Felsted School and Felsted Primary School, together with further state and independent schooling available in Bishop’s Stortford, Braintree and Chelmsford. Despite its rural setting, the property enjoys excellent connectivity. The A120 provides swift access to Stansted Airport and the M11, while Bishop’s Stortford station offers regular services to London Liverpool Street in approximately 43 minutes.