Description
Willow Lodge, The Common, Mellis, IP23 8EF A substantial and beautifully improved single-storey residence with annexe accommodation, business-ready outbuildings, landscaped south-facing gardens and exceptional privacy, all set in grounds approaching 1 acre overlooking the historic Mellis Common.
Overview Tucked away in a truly exceptional setting, Willow Lodge offers a rare opportunity to enjoy a peaceful, country lifestyle in one of Suffolk's most picturesque and unspoilt environments. Positioned on the edge of Mellis Common-England's largest continuous area of unfenced common land-this unique home combines space, privacy, and versatility in equal measure.
The property has been thoughtfully and comprehensively updated in recent years, including the addition of a stunning high-specification open-plan kitchen/living/dining room with patio doors opening onto the rear garden. This, alongside multiple reception rooms and a connected two-bedroom annexe, creates a home perfectly suited to multi-generational living, working from home, or income generation.
Accommodation Main Residence The main property offers three double bedrooms, two with en suite bathrooms, alongside a further family bathroom. Living space is generous, with two sitting rooms (one with a wood burner), a garden room with views over the grounds, a study, and a large utility/boot room. The centrepiece is the recently fitted open-plan kitchen/living/dining room, designed with entertaining in mind, and benefitting from direct access to the south-facing garden.
The Annexe Connected to the main house via the dressing room but with its own private entrance, the annexe provides two bedrooms, a spacious L-shaped open-plan kitchen/living/dining area, and a shower room. Planning permission is in place for the annexe to be used as a rental property, offering scope for long-term or holiday letting to create a valuable income stream.
Grounds & Outbuildings The gardens, approaching 1 acre (sts), are a key feature. Facing south, they are designed in a parkland style, with sweeping lawns, established specimen trees, and a more formal garden immediately behind the house. The property backs onto open farmland, enhancing the sense of tranquillity.
Approached via a shingled driveway, Willow Lodge has an integral double garage and two substantial detached outbuildings, both with water and power and current permission to run a business from the premises. These are presently home to a small butchery and artisan smokehouse, but could be adapted for workshops, studio space, or storage.
Location Mellis is a sought-after Suffolk village celebrated for its community spirit and natural beauty. Mellis Common, directly opposite Willow Lodge, is a haven for walkers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those who simply enjoy wide-open skies. The village has a well-regarded pub, The Railway Tavern, and a Church of England primary school rated Outstanding by Ofsted.
Everyday amenities can be found in nearby Eye (3 miles) with independent shops, cafés, a supermarket, and a GP surgery. The bustling market town of Diss (5 miles) offers a wider range of services, including a mainline railway station with direct trains to London Liverpool Street in around 90 minutes. Road links via the A140 and A14 provide easy access to Bury St Edmunds, Ipswich, and Norwich.
Key Features - Exceptional parkland-style setting directly overlooking Mellis Common
- 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and 6 reception rooms across main house and annexe
- Annexe with rental permission - ideal for long-term or holiday lets
- Recently fitted high-quality open-plan kitchen/living/dining space
- Grounds of approx. 1 acre (sts) with south-facing gardens and farmland to the rear
- Integral double garage plus two substantial detached outbuildings with power
- Outbuildings have business use permission - currently a butchery and artisan smokehouse
- Situated in Mellis village with pub, Outstanding primary school and strong community
- 3 miles from Eye, 5 miles from Diss with direct trains to London
- End of chain - quick move possible
