Enchanted 400-year-old countryside residence, muse for a renowned 20th-century children's storybook
Willow End, a charming house dating back four centuries, is now available for purchase at £1.75m through Redmayne Arnold & Harris. Located in the picturesque village of Great Shelford, Cambridgeshire, this property is a much-sought-after home due to its period character and proximity to Cambridge.
The house boasts three distinct wings, housing five bedrooms, a minstrels gallery, drawing room, conservatory, and a wonderful breakfast kitchen. The 'thatched end' wing of the house has three bedrooms and its own entrance, while the master suite is located at the far end of the modern wing, with another door leading to the drawing room. The 'yellow room', offering the best views of the river, overlooks the weir, patio, and river, and the rose-framed garden.
The main accommodation consists of a vaulted double reception room, kitchen and conservatory, and a guest bedroom beyond. The modern wing adds a shower room, cloaks, a butler's pantry, and a side door to the property.
The gardens of Willow End cover approximately 1/3 of an acre and are largely informal and pretty. The water in the gardens provides a relaxing backdrop and is home to various wildlife, including brown trout, kingfishers, herons, swans, ducks, pheasants, and occasional otters. However, canoeing down to Grantchester from Willow End can be challenging due to the shallow river in some parts.
Walking in the river on a hot day is a possibility, and the owner mentioned that they have done so with a small child on their shoulders. The location of Willow End is a cul-de-sac in the village, offering privacy and tranquillity.
The house at Willow End inspired the setting for the children's classic book Tom's Midnight Garden by Philippa Pearce. Philippa Pearce grew up in King's Mill House, the working mill in Great Shelford, Cambridgeshire in the 1950s. The last manager of the mill in Kings Mill House, featured in Philippa Pearce's book, was Mrs. Nettle.
Toby Keel, the Digital Director of the platform running this article, has been responsible for the website and social media channels since 2016. He writes about property, cars, lifestyle, travel, and nature.
The present owners initially put Willow End up for sale in 2016 but took it off the market when their chain fell through and ended up staying another nine years. Willow End is now back on the market, offering a unique opportunity to own a piece of history and a beautiful home in a sought-after location.
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