Copperfields, Clamhunger Lane, Mere

After two decades of calling Clamhunger Lane home, Wayne Shillito, his wife Debi, and their two sons are bidding farewell to a home that has been a labour of love. Nestled in one of Mere’s most tranquil and private spots, this property is a blend of original 1950s charm and modern luxury.

Wayne says: 'The central section of the house is original, but we’ve carried out numerous extensions and refurbishments over the past 20 years, with our final one completed a few months ago.'

Copperfields is located in Mere's most sought after location (Image: Thornley Groves) These thoughtful upgrades reflect not only the growth of their family but the changing needs and desires of modern living. The result? A bright, contemporary home in mature grounds, ideal for a new family to enjoy.

One of the unique highlights of this property is its proximity to The Mere Golf Resort & Spa. 'We back onto the 16th hole and due to its dog-legged layout you can watch golfers play the entire hole,' says Wayne, who has spent countless afternoons watching golfers tee off and putt out from the comfort of the property’s first-floor balcony. ‘It’s one of the quietest, most secluded spots in Mere; perfect for enjoying a coffee or glass of wine.’

Wayne has added underfloor heated Porcelanosa tiling throughout the ground floorWayne has added underfloor heated Porcelanosa tiling throughout the ground floor (Image: Thornley Groves) For Wayne and his family, all keen golfers and club members, the convenience of living just steps from the course and spa was priceless. ‘I never had to drive to the club. It’s a five-minute walk from the garden, and my wife and I would stroll over to events, parties and dinners there. The boys too could walk to the gym and spa in the evenings with no safety concerns.’

Although the Shillito family have now moved to a new property nearby, they look back on their time at Copperfields with fond memories. ‘We loved living here – just a couple of miles from Knutsford and only five miles to Hale – yet it feels completely private and rural, which is why we have never moved from Mere since we arrived 30 years ago.'

Every room has beautiful proportionsEvery room has beautiful proportions (Image: Thornley Groves) Wayne, who has had a career in hotel and commercial space refurbishments across the UK, has transformed Copperfields into a luxury home. ‘We've done all the work we would have wanted if we were staying. Everything’s been modernised, from Lutron smart lighting and sound systems to upgraded aluminium windows along with sliding and bi-fold doors.'

In addition to practical updates such as rewiring and new carpeting throughout, Wayne has added carefully considered touches such as a resin driveway and re-laid rear lawn, which along with a sunken fire pit seating area and pergola make the outdoor space as inviting as the interior. ‘We went for the soft grey décor throughout so the new owners could move in without worrying about immediately redecorating. The bathrooms are relatively new, and I am aware people like to choose their own style. The maple kitchen, handcrafted by Britten Interiors, has been newly painted to complement the fresh décor, while Porcelanosa tiles now cover the ground floor.'

The solid wood maple kitchen has been hand painted to suit contemporary tastesThe solid wood maple kitchen has been hand painted to suit contemporary tastes (Image: Thornley Groves) With six bedrooms, four of which are en suite, and an annexe with two en suite bedrooms, a living area, gym, and games room, the property offers ample space for multi-generational living or visiting guests. The annexe, accessible via the main landing and a spiral staircase, provides privacy and flexibility, making it ideal for a nanny, housekeeper, or extended family members.

'It gave our boys a sense of independence in their teenage years,' Wayne says.

Wayne’s favourite addition, after they bought the property in 2002, was the staircase from the drawing room to the first-floor landing, which grants access to the expansive balcony without passing through any of the bedrooms.

The view from the balcony, across the golf course, is quite beautifulThe view from the balcony, across the golf course, is quite beautiful (Image: Thornley Groves) 'It’s just another thoughtful feature that enhances the home’s flow and functionality,’ he explains.

As the Shillito family move on, they leave behind a property that’s ready for its next chapter.

'It’s like a brand-new home but with none of the risks of settling or the snagging issues you get. If you want to live in Mere, backing onto the new luxury Mere Resort and Spa currently undergoing a £100m refurbishment, here it is; a beautiful blank canvas,' Wayne says proudly. ‘All the hard work has been done, whoever moves in can just make it their own.’

For those seeking a serene yet connected lifestyle, in the heart of Mere, this beautifully refurbished home could be the perfect fit.

Copperfields is for sale for £3.625m through Thornley Groves, thornleygroves.co.uk.

A new sunken social space and pergola has been added to the rear gardenA new sunken social space and pergola has been added to the rear garden (Image: Thornley Groves) Be entertained by play on the 16th holeBe entertained by play on the 16th hole (Image: Thornley Groves) The house backs on to 50 acres of one of the best golf courses in the countryThe house backs on to 50 acres of one of the best golf courses in the country (Image: Thornley Groves)