4 bedroom detached bungalow for sale

Ref: EC0617
Guide Price: £750,000 - £800,000

Westknoll, Monks Eleigh – This substantial 4-bedroom detached bungalow is set on an elevated 1.5-acre plot of beautifully landscaped gardens, offering a private sanctuary of nature just a short walk from the historic village of Monks Eleigh. Surrounded by sweeping lawns, mature trees, and established hedgerows, the property provides peace, privacy, and stunning views. The versatile single-storey layout features four double bedrooms and bright, spacious living areas that connect seamlessly with the scenic surroundings. Offering the perfect blend of tranquillity and village charm, this rare opportunity is ideal for families, downsizers, or anyone seeking a serene countryside retreat.

Property Description:

APPROACH AND OUT BUILDINGS

Prepare to be captivated by this extraordinary home, where seclusion, space, and privacy combine to create a truly unique living experience. This substantial, detached single-storey residence is set on the edge of a historic and picturesque village, with roots dating back to 991 CE/AD. The village itself boasts a charming community, a popular public house, a local shop with a Post Office, and a well-used, modern village hall.
Upon arrival, you are greeted by a two-way driveway with two galvanised steel five-bar gates. The driveway leads to a large, open parking area that provides ample space for multiple vehicles. Adjacent to this space is a double cart lodge (21'10" x 21'1") with roof storage, lighting, and power connections, offering convenient covered parking.

For those with a passion for DIY or gardening, the workshop/garden store (21'7" x 10'2") is an invaluable addition. Fully insulated with power, lighting, and loft storage, it’s the perfect space for tools, equipment, or creative pursuits.
A notable feature of this property is the detached study/office (18'11" x 12'4"), a professionally designed workspace with loft storage, double glazing, power, and a reliable fibre internet connection. Heated by an eco-friendly FAR infrared heater, this space offers a tranquil setting with views of the picturesque grounds. Perfect for remote work or a private creative retreat.

LIVING ACCOMMODATION
The interior of the home is as impressive as its exterior, offering generous and versatile accommodation that blends style and comfort. The welcoming entrance hall (19'5" x 8'4") is an impressive introduction, with access to a unique loft artist’s studio via a dropdown ladder. This elevated, light-filled space benefits from a north facing double-glazed Velux window, making it an inspiring area for creative endeavours.
At the heart of the home is the expansive sitting room (30'11" x 14'2" max), a dual-aspect space that invites natural light and stunning views from all angles. French doors open onto an elevated terrace, offering a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living.

The open-plan kitchen/dining room (22'2" x 12'4") is a chef’s dream, with shaker-style cabinetry, wood-effect countertops, and tiled splashbacks. Cooking is a breeze with a four-ring ceramic hob, double oven, and an integrated Bosch dishwasher. The adjacent dining space overlooks the west-facing terrace—perfect for soaking in glorious sunsets. There’s also ample space for an American-style fridge/freezer and a large family dining table.
Practicality meets functionality in the utility/boot room, with tiled flooring, rear access to the garden, and ample space for additional appliances. This essential space ensures the main living areas remain clutter-free and organised.

BEDROOMS
This home offers four generously sized double bedrooms, each thoughtfully designed to provide comfort, style, and privacy.
•    Bedroom One (15'5" x 12'7") is a primary suite with large mirrored fitted wardrobes and a private en-suite. The en-suite features a WC, hand basin with storage, and a walk-in rainfall shower with fully tiled surround.
•    Bedroom Two (14'3" x 10'9") is a large, light-filled double bedroom with ample built-in wardrobe storage behind sliding doors.
•    Bedroom Three (14'2" x 11'5") is a beautifully presented dual-aspect room that also features stylish mirror-fronted sliding wardrobes, offering plentiful storage.
•    Bedroom Four (12'8" x 11'10") is a peaceful dual-aspect space, perfect for use as a guest room, an additional home office, or hobby room.
The family bathroom is spacious and well-appointed, featuring his-and-hers sinks, a corner bath with a shower attachment, and a WC. This area provides access to a further loft storage space, ensuring ample storage options.

GARDENS
Nestled within 1.5 acres (STS) of enchanting grounds, the outdoor areas are a haven of peace, beauty, and wildlife. This exceptional space has been lovingly maintained to offer an array of landscaped areas, wildlife habitats, and secluded retreats.
The gardens are a mix of expansive lawns, mature specimen trees (including oaks, maples, silver birch, and fruit-bearing apple and plum trees), and flourishing hedgerows. The property’s elevated position provides sweeping views over the surrounding countryside, with multiple seating areas for relaxation.

A sunken pond beneath a mature hawthorn tree, entwined with honeysuckle, adds a sense of tranquillity. Filtered water cascades over slate and stones, creating the gentle sound of flowing water—a true retreat for reflection and calm.

An elevated west-facing tiled terrace offers the perfect spot for evening drinks or family meals, capturing the best of the day’s light. To the front of the property, a charming south-facing loggia leads to a raised deck with solar lighting, offering yet another area to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The grounds are fully enclosed with secure fencing and lockable gates, making it safe and secure for children and pets. Additionally, power points and two outside water taps are strategically placed throughout the garden for ease of maintenance and gardening convenience.

For those interested in wildlife, the current owner has curated the grounds to attract and support local flora and fauna. Detailed species lists are available for potential buyers upon request.
This stunning home is not situated within a conservation area, and with south- and west-facing grounds, it presents an excellent opportunity for environmentally conscious buyers to install solar panels on one or both outbuildings (subject to relevant consents).

A Unique Opportunity
This remarkable home has been in the same family for two generations and is now available for the first time since 1952. The property underwent extensive enlargement and modernisation in 2004, including a total rewire, new plumbing, and a new roof. It is an exceptional opportunity to own a truly distinctive home with history, charm, and modern convenience.

Local Area Guide: Monks Eleigh, Suffolk

Nestled in the heart of the Suffolk countryside, Monks Eleigh is a quintessential English village known for its rich history, picturesque surroundings, and vibrant community. This charming village, with its traditional thatched cottages and medieval architecture, offers a perfect blend of rural tranquillity and modern convenience. Here’s a closer look at the nearby amenities, scenic walks, local pubs, shops, and transport links that make Monks Eleigh a sought-after place to live.

Local Amenities Monks Eleigh offers a range of essential amenities to support everyday life. At the heart of the village is the village shop and post office, a convenient hub for groceries, postal services, and daily essentials. Residents can also access a wide range of additional services, including local tradespeople, gardening services, and community support groups.

For healthcare needs, nearby towns such as Hadleigh (6 miles away), Lavenham (4 miles away) and Bildeston (2.5 miles away) offer GP surgeries, pharmacies, and dental practices. Larger medical facilities, including hospitals, are found in Sudbury (7 miles) and Ipswich (15 miles).

For families, the area is served by reputable local schools, including Bildeston Primary School and Thomas Gainsborough School in Sudbury for secondary education. The village itself has a strong community spirit with regular activities hosted at the Monks Eleigh Village Hall, which also serves as a venue for social events, classes, and private hire.
________________________________________

Shops & Supermarkets 

While Monks Eleigh’s village shop provides everyday essentials, more extensive shopping options are available in the nearby towns of Hadleigh and Sudbury. Both towns offer large supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Aldi, along with independent retailers, farmers’ markets, and boutique stores. For those seeking a more extensive shopping experience, the city of Ipswich is a short drive away, offering major high-street brands, shopping centres, and retail parks.
________________________________________

Pubs & Dining

The village’s local pub, The Swan Inn, is a traditional countryside pub offering a warm welcome, and a selection of ales, wines, and spirits. Its rustic charm, open fires, and outdoor seating area make it a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike.
Nearby villages such as Lavenham and Kersey boast several high-end dining options and charming pubs. The Swan at Lavenham is a renowned luxury hotel and restaurant, while The Bell Inn in Kersey is famed for its stunning location and classic British cuisine. Hadleigh also offers a range of dining options, from cafes and bakeries to international cuisine.
________________________________________

Scenic Walks & Outdoor Activities

Monks Eleigh is surrounded by rolling Suffolk countryside, offering an abundance of walking routes, cycling trails, and outdoor pursuits. The village lies on the Stour Valley Path, a long-distance walking route that passes through some of the most scenic parts of the region, including the nearby villages of Lavenham, Kersey, and Long Melford.

For those seeking a gentle stroll, the area’s quiet country lanes and public footpaths provide scenic routes past meadows, woodlands, and streams. The Brett Valley is a particularly picturesque area for nature lovers and birdwatchers, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy peaceful walks.
________________________________________

Nearby Villages & Towns

Monks Eleigh’s central location makes it a fantastic base for exploring the wider area. Lavenham, one of Britain’s best-preserved medieval villages, is just a 10-minute drive away and offers a wealth of history, beautiful timber-framed buildings, and independent shops. Kersey, known for its famous “Splash” (a shallow stream that crosses the village road), is another must-visit spot.

Other nearby towns include:
•    Hadleigh (5 miles) — A historic market town with a range of shops, restaurants, and community events.
•    Sudbury (8 miles) — A larger town with supermarkets, leisure facilities, and transport links.
•    Ipswich (15 miles) — Suffolk’s county town, offering a vast selection of shops, entertainment, and cultural attractions.
________________________________________

Transport Links

Monks Eleigh’s location ensures good access to the wider Suffolk area. The village is well connected by road, with the A1071 and A134 providing access to larger towns and cities. Sudbury railway station (8 miles away) offers direct services to London Liverpool Street, making it a viable option for commuters seeking a rural lifestyle with city access.
For those who drive, Ipswich (15 miles) and Bury St Edmunds (20 miles) are easily accessible, offering broader transport options and connections to the national road network. Local bus services link Monks Eleigh with surrounding villages and towns, though many residents choose to drive for greater flexibility.
________________________________________

Conclusion

Monks Eleigh is a village that offers the best of both worlds: a tranquil rural lifestyle with access to modern amenities and transport links. Surrounded by stunning countryside, with easy access to charming local pubs, historic towns, and scenic walking routes, it’s easy to see why this village remains a highly desirable place to live. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or a base from which to explore Suffolk’s rich heritage, Monks Eleigh is a place where you’ll feel right at home.

Additional Information
The expansive 1.5-acre (STS) grounds offer a surprising level of ease in maintenance. Thoughtfully designed for relaxation rather than laborious upkeep, the gardens are a haven of peace. To make garden care even more enjoyable, all essential ground care equipment is included, including a ride-on mulching 4WD mower—complete with a "beverage" holder for those warm summer afternoons.
Positioned on a raised knoll, the property’s driveways have a steeper incline, which could be a consideration for those with larger vehicles like "Winnebago"-style campers. 

As part of a comprehensive renovation and enlargement in 2004, the property underwent a full re-roofing, rewiring, and replumbing. All necessary building permissions, plans, and approvals are in place and available for review by prospective purchasers’ solicitors upon request.

Modern Utilities & Smart Features

• All mains electricity and telephone supply cables are buried underground, eliminating unsightly overhead wires and reducing the risk of damage.
• Each of the four bedrooms is equipped with both traditional radiators (with individual thermostatic controls) and discreet ceiling-mounted FAR “Smart” infrared heaters, which can be operated via a mobile app or remote control for convenience and energy efficiency.
• All external UPVC and heavy composite doors feature upgraded locking mechanisms for enhanced security and peace of mind when away from home.
• Both the house and outbuildings are equipped with mains-powered LED PIR security lighting, providing added visibility and safety—especially helpful for those late-night dog walks.
• Mains water supply with high water pressure ensures an exceptional showering experience, with the added benefit of reduced risk of frozen pipes.
• All outbuilding roof drainage is channelled directly into the pond, supporting the natural water system on the grounds.

SERVICES: Mains water and electricity. Private drainage. Oil-fired central heating via radiators. Discreet ceiling-mounted FAR Infrared “Smart” heaters in all bedrooms
Note: While none of these services have been tested by the agent, the current owner has confirmed that all are fully functional, regularly serviced, and backed by available service/maintenance records.
EPC RATING: Band D. A copy of the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is included within the property’s marketing particulars.

CONDITION OF SALE
A unique feature of this sale is the inclusion of a historic oak side cupboard known as “The Hutch”, along with its contents (four books, one battle dress tunic, and one balaclava). This piece is a significant part of the property’s history. The Hutch was handcrafted in 1930 as the apprentice piece of the master carpenter who built the original home, known as Westknoll. The current owner, his son, spearheaded the property's enlargement and modernisation in 2004. As a treasured part of the home’s legacy—and the broader village’s history—it is a condition of sale that The Hutch remains with the property to be cared for by future owners.

VIEWING: Strictly by prior appointment only through Edd Callegari – Your Personal Estate agent, selling beautiful homes across Essex and Suffolk.

ADDITIONAL IMAGES: Stunning photographs of the grounds, captured by the owner across all seasons in recent years, have been shared with us exclusively. These images offer you a genuine glimpse into the year-round beauty of the landscape. Please contact Edd Callegari directly to access these.