Oak Hill Lane, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2

The property

Dating back to 1862 and set within beautiful gardens, this stunning Gothic mansion is situated to the South of Ipswich and enjoys an elevated position affording wonderful outlook over Ipswich and out towards the River Orwell. Previously a preparatory school from 1937 to 1996, Oak Hill is steeped in history and character and is constructed of Gault and white bricks, with gable ends, clustered chimney flues and characteristic Victorian windows, and is set beneath predominately Westmorland slate roofs. The property also enjoys a host of attractive internal period features including an impressive galleried staircase hall, intricate cornicing, moulded ceilings and skirting boards, and open fireplaces throughout.

This Suffolk mansion offers substantial and flexible accommodation that is arranged over three floors, with the added benefit of a 3 bedroom self-contained annexe. Key features of the ground floor are the large central hall that features a magnificent wooden staircase leading to the galleried first floor landing, and the impressive Victorian orangery with pitched glazed roof that offers stunning views of the garden and grounds. The ground floor living space also includes an elegant dining room, drawing room and morning room, all of which offering large French doors that provide access to the veranda and grounds and serve to flood the areas with natural light. The kitchen is comprehensively fitted with an excellent range of stylish units with patterned marble and wooden work surfaces, an Aga, and a central island. Beneath the ground floor there is also a cellar and wine cellar.

The first floor is arranged to provide 7 of the property's 8 bedrooms, all of which are of a good size and offer pleasant aspect, and a number of well-appointed bathroom facilities. The final bedroom is found on the second floor, whilst above that on the third floor lies a largely glazed observatory that offers spectacular 360 degree views over Ipswich and beyond. This room features a gabled roof with a large square lantern that emerges from the tower and is topped by an ogee copper dome with a finial.

General
Local Authority: Ipswich Borough Council
Services: Mains water, gas, electricity and drainage. Gas fired central heating.

Oak Hill is set within the affluent town of Ipswich that is set on the estuary of the River Orwell and close by to the popular Suffolk Heritage Coast. The property is conveniently located for Ipswich town centre and its comprehensive range of retail and leisure facilities, including a host of sports clubs, eateries and high street stores. Ipswich has become a popular 'commuting town' owing to its excellent road and rail links, with Ipswich railway station offering fast and frequent services to London's Liverpool Street and the M25 easily accessible via the nearby A12. The area also benefits from an excellent choice of schooling within both the state and private sectors, including the high performing Ipswich High School for Girls and Copleston High School.

Oakhill is approached via a communal entrance with remote controlled wrought iron gates. The property's own wooden double gates open out into a gravelled entrance courtyard and driveway that provides ample off-street parking and a turning circle. The property is set within a substantial plot of gardens and grounds that are primarily laid to lawn and terrace, interspersed with numerous mature trees and herbaceous beds to the borders. The main terrace is laid to formal lawn with rose clad pathways and a stunning veranda that wraps around two sides of the house and provides an excellent extension of the inside living space. Beyond the main terrace steps lead down into a lightly wooded terrace area, with delightful
meandering walkways. The grounds also enjoy far-reaching views out over the Orwell valley, as well as the extended hours of sunlight afforded by the property's southerly aspect.