Detached House for sale with 8 bedrooms, Upnor, Rochester

• Approached through impressive original gates with Elizabeth I lead plaques with planning permission in place for gate automation • Original features including sash windows, panelled doors, fireplaces, working shutters and a fully operational maid’s bell system • Includes an original cottage, various stores, outbuildings and a preserved WWII bomb shelter • Over 7,000 sq ft of accommodation with further conversion potential (subject to consents) • Gardens include an orchard, wildflower meadow and mature trees (including a mulberry traditionally linked to Elizabeth I) along with Swimming pool, grass tennis court and croquet lawn Set within approximately four acres of secluded, high-walled grounds, this remarkable 17th-century residence, offers the rare opportunity to become custodian of a distinguished piece of English heritage. Originally built to accommodate the senior officer in charge of Upnor Castle, the house has quietly witnessed centuries of history while evolving into an elegant and comfortable family home. Mid-17th-century origins were enlarged and re-fronted in the Georgian style (likely in the early 19th century under the direction of Edward Holl, an architect to the navy board), creating the graceful, symmetrical façade seen today. The principal house retains a wealth of original features, including sash windows, panelled doors, fireplaces, working shutters and the original maid’s bell system, which remains fully operational in all main rooms, a rare and evocative detail that connects past and present. There is a particular stillness to the approach. A sense, even before the gates open, that this is somewhere altogether different. Beyond them lies complete privacy and security within historic walled grounds, where centuries of English history are woven quietly into the fabric of everyday life. This is not simply a home you move into. It is one you step into, with all the weight, beauty and permanence that brings. The ground floor unfolds in a sequence of elegant reception rooms. A drawing room filled with light, a more intimate sitting room, a formal dining space and a garden room that opens gently onto the landscape beyond. There is a natural rhythm to the layout, allowing for both entertaining on a grand scale and quieter, more reflective moments. Grand reception rooms enjoy fine proportions and impressive ceiling heights. Four fully serviced operational stove fireplaces provide both warmth and character. At the centre of daily life sits the kitchen and breakfast room, practical, well equipped and perfectly positioned. Supporting spaces including a laundry/utility room and cloakroom ensure the house functions as effortlessly as any modern home. Upstairs, two magnificent principal suites enjoy elevated panoramic views across the gardens towards the River Medway, each with its own dressing room and en-suite bathroom. Four further bedrooms and a family bathroom occupy the upper floor, offering generous accommodation for family and guests. The central heating system allows each room to be controlled individually for maximum efficiency, while a lighting system (in selected rooms) offers timers and sensors. Underfloor heating is installed in every bathroom, and full fibre WiFi is provided throughout. Windows and doors have been completely refurbished with upgraded draft proofing, and the property benefits from a gold standard ADT alarm system with police response. Complementing the main house is a beautifully presented two-bedroom Stable Cottage, complete with kitchen, living space and bathroom. Set slightly apart, it offers independence without separation, ideal for guests, extended family, staff or a source of income. An original cottage (with restoration potential), extensive stores and a collection of outbuildings further enhance the estate. A particular outbuilding enjoys stunning views and offers exciting potential for conversion to a remarkable river-facing office or entertainment space (subject to the necessary consents). A preserved WWII bomb shelter adds to the sense of layered history and further development potential. In total the property provides over 7000 sq. ft of accommodation, delivering exceptional flexibility. Approached through impressive gates and a sweeping gravel driveway, the house enjoys complete privacy within its historic high-walled grounds. Each gate pillar is adorned with a lead plaque of Elizabeth I, marking her historic visit to the estate. Planning permission is also in place for gate automation. The gardens have been thoughtfully cultivated over many years and feel established and settled. Roses and wisteria soften the structure, while an impressive collection of mature specimen and fruit trees provide scale and seasonal change. Among them, a mulberry tree traditionally said to have been planted by Queen Elizabeth I anchors the space in both history and folklore. The grounds include a swimming pool, grass tennis court, croquet lawn, orchard, wildfl