Legge Lodge 48 Legge Lane | Birling | West Malling | Kent | ME19 5JH
Seller Insight Located at the base of the North Downs just north of historic West Malling, Legge Lodge sits in a quiet lane in the pretty Kent village of Birling. The old game keepers lodge to the former Birling Manor House, Legge Lodge originates from 1880 with the original part built of Kentish ragstone, however it has been extended in brick and sympathetically renovated throughout. ‘When we bought the property all the old original charm had been taken out, but we loved the house and knew we could bring it back to its former glory by reinstating period features. The rooms didn’t flow well, so we rearranged the configuration by moving doors, walls and unused chimney breasts to create a more spacious home. We were hugely attracted to the far-reaching views and peaceful location on a no through lane and the large plot and garden which offer total peace and privacy – the house sits in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so it really is very lovely. Its proximity to West Malling makes it convenient, as do excellent local transport links – one can jump on a train at West Malling or Snodland and be in London’s Victoria in just under an hour. Living here gives you the best of both worlds.’ ‘We love the spaciousness of the house, the peace and the lovely views.The garden is an interesting plot which offers lovely views from various aspects. With a bit of imagination and someone with green fingers it could be amazing.’ ‘The well-equipped and spacious kitchen is a real cook’s kitchen – I can happily spend hours baking and cooking here. The layout means that when we have guests one can still be sociable whilst preparing food. We’ve created an air of luxury with the bathrooms, the main one having a large bath perfect for unwinding in after a busy day.’ ‘There are 10 houses in the lane and the neighbours are all very friendly. Birling hosts a Montessori pre-school whilst nearby Ryarsh has a primary school, community centre and sports field.Trottiscliffe, Offham and West Malling also offer a range of schooling for all ages.’ ‘There are numerous walks from the property which end up at country pubs, either the Duke of Wellington in Ryarsh or the hugely popular George in Trottiscliffe. West Malling High Street is a very pleasant 40-minute walk away where there are excellent shops, pubs and restaurants.’*
* These comments are the personal views of the current owner and are included as an insight into life at the property. They have not been independently verified, should not be relied on without verification and do not necessarily reflect the views of the agent.
Fine & Country are delighted to present this imposing 19th century residence, occupying an enviable position within parkland style gardens of approximately 0.8 of an acre with stunning far reaching elevated views over neighbouring farmland. This unique four/five bedroom family home blends original period features with elegant contemporary excellence, nestled within the quintessential Kentish village of Birling. Step Inside Legge Lodge affords the opportunity to enjoy idyllic, semi-rural living within one of Kent’s most desirable regions. This unique, characterful home provides well appointed and versatile living accommodation with many well considered, modern conveniences enhancing it perfectly. The principle residence is currently configured over two floors with well proportioned, light and spacious rooms with a number of quite striking fire places, wood panelling to walls, Parquet flooring, luxurious carpets and imposing bay windows. The ground floor is comprised of - contemporary bespoke crafted kitchen/breakfast room with beautiful grey marbled work surfaces, a comprehensive range of base and eye level storage cupboards, butler style sink and a range of integrated appliances to include - oven, induction hob, coffee machine, larder style fridge freezer and dishwasher. A dedicated utility area and substantial dining room compliment the kitchen perfectly.There are two further reception rooms - a formal lounge with stunning double aspect views, open fireplace inset with a log burner and direct access on to a sun terrace. A snug offers a less formal option in which to relax whilst a downstairs cloakroom provides convenience and complete the ground floor. A wonderful Victorian wooden staircase rises to the first floor. The master bedroom offers duel aspect views of the gardens/neighbouring countryside and is complimented by a luxurious en-suite wet room. Bedroom two also with the benefits of dual aspect light, is also served by an equally impressive en-suite wet room.The most elegant and beautifully presented family bath/wet room with a metal roll top freestanding bathtub, ornate marble topped wash hand basin and contemporary Victorian inspired tiling serves the two remaining bedrooms. The Annexe A well presented and perfectly formed one bedroom detached annexe provides versatile auxiliary accommodation with an open-plan lounge/ kitchen with French doors, a ground floor shower room and generously sized bedroom on the first floor with inbuilt storage.
Step Outside The property stands proudly within a parkland style garden of approximately 0.8 of an acre with rolling lawns interspersed with mature shrubberies and imposing specimen trees making up its boarders. A grass bank rises to an elevated lawn that provides exceptional elevated views of the house and Kentish countryside off into the distance. A perfectly positioned sun terrace to the rear of the residence offers an ideal position in which to enjoy al fresco dining and again offers wonderful views over the neighbouring rolling hills and grazing farm animals. A large brick built outbuilding provides useful storage for garden tools and sit-on lawnmower. Parking A five bar wooden gate to the front of the home gives way to a driveway dressed in fine shingle, large enough to park several vehicles. An overflow parking area is conveniently located at the end of the rear garden. Location The village of Birling is considered to be very well positioned. At its heart is a beautiful ragstone church surrounded by equally appealing homes built of the same mellow material.The award winning market town of West Malling is just minutes away with an eclectic range of boutique shops, Gastro pubs, restaurants and coffee shops.The region is well served by schooling with the local village primary schools retaining their long standing high reputation. Senior schools are within easy reach, as are selective Grammar schools. For those wishing to commute to London or the Continent it should be noted that this area is superbly blessed with transport links.The M20 & M25 are but a short drive, with train times to London of approximately 50 minutes from the nearby station. Continental travel by rail is accessible via either Ebbsfleet or Ashford International stations and cross channel services via The Channel Tunnel or coastal ferry terminals all within very easy reach.
Agents notes: All measurements are approximate and for general guidance only and whilst every attempt has been made to ensure accuracy, they must not be relied on. The fixtures, fittings and appliances referred to have not been tested and therefore no guarantee can be given that they are in working order. Internal photographs are reproduced for general information and it must not be inferred that any item shown is included with the property. For a free valuation, contact the numbers listed on the brochure. Copyright Š 2020 Fine & Country Ltd. Registered in England and Wales. Company Reg No. 06959315. Registered Office: Morgan Alexander Kent Ltd (formerly Fine & Country Kent Ltd.) 36 King Street, Maidstone, Kent ME14 1BS. Printed 29.09.2020
Fine & Country Tel: +44 (0)1732 222272 westmalling@fineandcountry.com 28 High Street, West Malling, Kent ME19 6QR