Located right on the beach and nestled in the heart of St. Leonards-on-Sea, the Grade II listed Clock House is a dream for those looking for a second home or perhaps somewhere to settle down for a peaceful retirement.
“A 30-year restoration and a labour of love - it’s time for her to be loved by a new owner;” thoughtful words from the current owners of The Clock House on Maze Hill in St. Leonard’s, a stunning gothic revival conversion recently put up for sale on the coast of East Sussex.
We sit down with Ayrton Earl from property agents Knight and Knoxley, who tells us about the benefits of living in the coastal town and what you can do in the area, as well giving us a tour of this majestic property.
Q: What makes St Leonards the perfect place for a healthier, stress-free life?
“There really are so many reasons,” Ayrton tells us. “St Leonards was built specifically as a seaside resort, designed as a rural escape for those looking for a quieter way of life or to explore its health benefits.”
"James Burton conceived the town as a brand-new seaside resort for the wealthy and it became instantly popular with royalty and aristocracy.”
He describes the area as being very secluded, and whilst busy throughout the year, a calming and relaxed location to re-discover your old hobbies or perhaps some new ones.
“The community is friendly, vibrant and filled with independent retailers, art galleries and local-run restaurants, particularly along Norman Road. It feels very bohemian and welcoming when you’re walking through, and the area is busy during the summer months with lots of scheduled events and activities, but remains populated throughout the winter, as there’s a wonderful local community that lives here all year-round.”
Q: What things can you get up to in and around Saint Leonards?
Whether you’re staying in St Leonards or looking to travel further afield for a day trip, East Sussex is steeped in great history - there are many places to visit, as well as lots of green spaces and country parks for long walks with the family.
The area is very accessible, with the train station just a 10-minute walk away, where you can hop on a train to London and get to anywhere in the country. Ayrton recommends Brighton’s South Downs, Hastings and The Old Town of Rye, the Seven Sister National Park, Dover Castle and Bewl Water. He also mentions kite surfing and sup boarding being a popular way for locals to enjoy the beach at St. Leonards.
There are countless eateries, many of them independent restaurants, to check out in St Leonards. “It’s really the best place if you’re looking for better food than the norm,” Ayrton says.
“Farmyard is without a doubt the best spot for food in my opinion. The restaurant pairs their wines with each meal on their menu to create that special and tailored dining experience for their customers.” The area’s restaurants are also renowned for their great service, and they’re situated in a hip and trendy neighbourhood too.
Q: What’s the story behind The Clock House in St. Leonard’s?
“It really is the most stunning property – designed in 1828, the now four-bedroom building was originally the clock house, a timekeeper for the town. It was designed by Decimus Burton, a renowned architect known for his work on the Glasshouse at Kew Gardens and Regent’s Square in London. The versatility of the building creates a lot of flexibility for its new owners - it’s set over three floors and they can design the layout however they wish,” Ayrton explains.
Ayrton explains how the house currently has two wonderful sitting rooms that make the perfect retreat spaces, either as an office, study, sitting room or morning rooms. “Although the rest of the house is up to interpretation and the spaces can be switched around to suit the needs of the new owners.”
Ayrton explains how the previous owners renovated the entire house, whilst retaining many of the original features that characterise the property to preserve its history and restore it to its former glory. Just a minute’s walk from the sea, the building is a breath of fresh air for anyone looking to escape the city and start a new life on the coast.
Q: What can potential buyers expect from The Clock House in St. Leonards?
“The ground floor begins with the fourth bedroom, equipped with its own kitchen and the formal dining room, with doors that open out onto the terrace,” Ayrton tells us. “You’ll also find a large laundry room and a suite of cellar rooms, perfect for storing wine.
“Moving onto the first floor, where the second and third bedrooms are located, both have been designed with fitted wardrobes and views of the park. The main family bathroom is also on this floor, but the drawing room is the real gem of this floor with its feature fireplace and decorations to entertain guests.”
The master bedroom suite is situated on the second floor with double arched stained-glass windows that look out over the sea, accompanied by its boudoir style en-suite bathroom. The bedroom has its own sitting room and a stunning entrance lobby with a grand staircase leading down into the rest of the house.
The kitchen is spacious and fitted with bespoke cream units, glazed display cabinets and a statement kitchen island to gather round at mealtimes. “The dining room is one of the most striking areas in the house, leading from the kitchen through a decorative archway and French doors which open onto the terrace, perfect for BBQs and outside dinners during the summer.
“There is a unique and original feel to this property that’s perfect for someone looking for something different which they can add their own style to and make their own,” he tells us.
For more information on The Clock House in St. Leonards, visit www.rightmove.co.uk/properties/127770401#/?channel=RES_BUY.
To make an enquiry with the team at Knight & Knoxley, contact 01273 109907.
