A house has sat on the same site as Hales Hall, near Loddon, for more than a thousand years. Even the present property, which includes a Grade I listed house and the largest brick-built Tudor barn in England, dates back to 1478 - making it one of the oldest and best restored in the county.
Nestled in nine acres, the barn and hall at Hales are the surviving remains of the wing of Sir James Hobart’s once great house. He served as attorney general to Henry VII and his great grandson, Sir Henry Hobart, later built Blickling Hall.
The estate was acquired from Sir Roger de Hales, whose daughter married the Duke of Norfolk. Sir James created a unique triple-moated complex with defensive walls and a massive hall, barn with windows to defend it, a gatehouse and cottages.
'The surviving wing was restored in 1971 and refurbished more recently by previous owners,' says property agent Natalie Howlett-Clarke, joint head of residential sales at Savills in Norfolk, which is marketing the property with the Blue Book Agency.
Over the years, the renovations have included the total overhaul and restoration of the main roof, which dated back to 1601. As part of the works, it was completely re-tiled and had 13 dormer windows reinstated to the north and south sides.
Its original Tudor chimneys were also rebuilt, seven new windows put in – complete with leaded lights to match the originals – and the building completely rewired, insulated and re-plastered.
Other work has included the installation of a custom-built kitchen, complete with an Aga, seven new bathrooms and a new oak staircase to connect the three floors. In the past few years, it has also been completely redecorate and the current owners have installed a stunning external lighting scheme to show off the buildings and gardens to dramatic effect.
In recent years, the estate has been used as an events venue and high end holiday let. The hall itself has seven bedrooms and the gatehouse, cottage and garden rooms offer more accommodation.
'The Great Barn was restored and re-roofed in 1996 – deservedly becoming a wonderful venue for events, with permission for up to 48 weddings per year,' says Natalie.
'Whether enjoying the property as a home or deriving an income from it, Hales Hall offers great flexibility,' she continues. 'It is a truly wonderful property.'
Hales Hall is on the market for £3.9m with Savills Norfolk and Blue Book Agency. savills.co.uk
