17-05-2025
Bank of England founder's 10-bed mansion on the market for £2.5m
The former house of a Bank of England co-founder is on the market for £2,500,000.
The Old Hall, near Rutland Water, was built for Sir Gilbert Heathcote, who developed the property for members of his family to reside in until the late 1880s.
Later on, Caroline Beresford, the Duchess of Montrose, an eccentric aristocrat, socialite and racehorse breeder, lived in the property.
The Duchess of Montrose used the pseudonym of Mr Manton in Newmarket records to circumvent rules at the races.
At the time, cottages surrounding The Old Hall were used for grooms' quarters and the now converted stables for the horses.
During the post-war years, an author and Master of the Cottesmore Hunt, Lieutenant Colonel Cyril Heber-Percy, resided in The Old Hall.
The current owners of the estate have lived in it for 20 years.
The Old Hall, which is located in the village of Manton, close to the southern shores of Rutland Water, is Grade-II listed and Georgian and Jacobean in style.
The three-storey stone property has 10 bedroom, four bathrooms and eight reception rooms.
Internally, there is a large entrance hall, a drawing room with original panelling, a dining room with mahogany pannelling fitted 18 years ago by Members of the Guild of Craftsman, a snug, a large fitted kitchen and a garden room.
Elsewhere downstairs, there is a library, print room, games room, an orangery and a study, with the latter benefiting from almost an entire wall of glazing overlooking the garden.
Some of the rooms on the second floor are currently used for storage, but could be turned into further bedrooms by the new buyer.
Throughout the property, there are high ceilings and large windows, ensuring light fills each room.
The interior is packed full of designer wallpapers, bespoke curtains, blinds and swags, plus high-end fittings, all from Design Centre at Chelsea Harbour.
So relaxing: The Old Hall has an orangery and serene outdoor space
At the back, privacy is maintained by a collection of mature trees. The property comes with a summerhouse and heated outdoor swimming pool.
A pergola in the garden is laden with climbers and leads to a tiered fountain at the end of the garden. A shower and sauna are situated near the pool area.
The property also comes with various outbuildings. Including the cellar, The Old Hall spans 7,921 sq. ft.
It is located close to the A1 and has decent train links. A selection of highly-rated private schools are also nearby.
Ildi Toth, a manager at Fine & Country, told This is Money: 'The Old Hall is a rare gem indeed - a Grade II listed Georgian and Jacobean residence that seamlessly blends historic grandeur with modern luxury.
'This exceptional home will appeal to discerning buyers seeking a unique combination of architectural heritage, refined interiors and a peaceful countryside setting.
'For example, The Old Hall offers London buyers the perfect escape - a grand and historic home with all the luxury of city living, set within the peaceful surroundings of Rutland's most desirable village.
'With 10 bedrooms, elegant entertaining spaces and beautiful walled gardens, it's ideal for those seeking a slower pace without compromising on style, space or connectivity.
'For multi-generational families, this exceptional property offers the ideal set-up, with ten beautifully appointed bedrooms, generous reception rooms and separate spaces that allow privacy and independence.
'Whilst for buyers seeking a lifestyle or hospitality business The Old Hall presents a rare opportunity to combine elegant living with income potential. It's perfectly suited for use as a boutique guesthouse or luxury retreat.
'This is also an ideal location for families who are looking for quality education for their children as Uppingham School, Oakham School and Stamford School are all within easy reach.'
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