Buy your own slice of NeoGothic grandeur

Neo-gothic architecture was traditionally the popular design of stately buildings, such as the Houses of Parliament and churches or cathedrals in the 18th and 19th centuries. Famed for its vaulted roofs, heraldic motif spires and bold paintwork, this distinctive and ornate architectural style was occasionally used to build bespoke homes.

The Old Mission in Ardleigh is one such property, with a rich and varied history.

This unique gem is thought to have originally been built in the mid-19th century as a schoolteacher’s house and school for the children of local agricultural workers by John Gurdon Rebow. Indeed, the colour scheme of the exterior paintwork still reflects the original estate livery.  In the late 1800’s the school was closed and the Church of England took over The Old Mission and used the building for baptisms, which continued until the late 1960’s.

Bringing us up to date, in 1977, the property was bought by the current vendors and has been sensitively restored into a striking five-bedroom family home. Being careful to retain many of the original features the current owners have also used the bold interior colour schemes which are similar to those which would have been used when the property was built.

Set within a mature garden of approximately half an acre, the house benefits from undisturbed views over the surrounding countryside. There is also a generous outbuilding that includes a studio, workshop, and single garage.

Equestrian lovers can also take advantage of a further 10 acres of pasture land, two stables, tack rooms and field shelter, available for separate lease.

To find out more about the Old Mission or to search for more houses with unusual histories, contact one of our branches.