Loughton, England

An impressive five-bedroom detached house situated in one of Loughtons most prestigious neighbourhoods. Originally built in 1996, this well-maintained home occupies one of the largest plots in a highly regarded, architect-designed gated development. It enjoys a prime position overlooking the central green and pond, with open fields beyond, offering privacy and seclusion. The house has considerable kerb appeal, with its striking rooflines, chimney, soft brickwork with decorative quoins, ornate corbelling and Palladian-style columned entrance. It is approached via a driveway leading to the double garage, bordered by a front lawn and tall hedges. The front door opens into a welcoming hallway with a storage cupboard, cloakroom and stairs to the first floor. Just off the entrance is a conveniently located study, ideal for anyone working from home as it offers easy access for business visitors. Opposite is a sophisticated bespoke library by Clive Christian, which could also make an excellent dining room for more formal occasions. There is an elegant, bright, dual-aspect living room with full-height windows and a cast-iron fireplace as an attractive focal point. The dual-aspect family room has French doors opening onto the terrace and is an ideal place to relax or play with the children. A large kitchen/breakfast room provides access to the garage and utility room. It features tiled flooring, panelled walls and Shaker-style units housing a cupboard hob, fridge and freezer, with space for a dishwasher and a large dining table. The first-floor gallery landing has a large airing cupboard and leads to the bathroom, which has a bath, separate shower and washbasin with half-height storage cabinets. There are five double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes, two of which have wooden flooring. Three bedrooms enjoy splendid views over the surrounding fields and countryside, while the other two overlook the green and pond. The spacious double-aspect bedroom has an en-suite bathroom, and the well-proportioned principal bedroom also has an en-suite bathroom with a bath, separate shower and washbasin. The attractive, secluded rear garden includes a terrace for alfresco dining and an especially large lawn, ideal for a game of cricket or football. Trees and shrubs are dotted throughout, with views over farmland. What the owner says: We bought this property as a new-build about 30 years ago because we loved this particular house and its surroundings, designed to reflect the character of a traditional English village, with individually styled homes arranged around landscaped greens and communal spaces, creating a unique and established setting. Also, as it is in a cul-de-sac and a gated community, it is very secure, while being safe for children and pets. Security has been particularly important as we are often away, which may suit those with a lock up and go lifestyle. It is also wonderful to be so close to the 6,000 acres of Epping Forest, where you can walk or cycle and feel as though you are in the countryside, while still being within easy reach of the town centre. Loughton is a charming town with many pubs, restaurants and independent shops, as well as sports and leisure facilities, including golf courses and Loughton Leisure Centre with an indoor swimming pool. There is a wide choice of schools in the area, including Hereward Primary and Debden Park High School, both rated Outstanding by Ofsted, as well as good independent schools. The town is on the Central line, which can take you to Stratford in 20 minutes and Liverpool Street in around half an hour, making it ideal for commuters travelling to the City or the West End. For road travel, it is only a short distance to the M11 for the M25, as well as routes to Stansted, Heathrow and Cambridge. Room sizes: Hallway: 14'7 x 9'11 (4.45 m x 3.02 m) Cloakroom Study: 10'4 x 9'8 (3.15 m x 2.95 m) Library: 14'8 x 10'9 (4.47 m x 3.28 m) Living room: 21'1 x 12'10 (6.43 m x 3.91 m) Kitchen/Breakfast room: 14'9