This property is on the market for £5,500,000, listed with Strutt and Parker.

The bucolic 35 acre estate is set near the Exmoor National Park AONB and belonged to the famed English writer Evelyn Waugh, who described the Grade II-listed manor house as “a handsome 18th-century building of impressively large size...”. 

Waugh lived in the property from 1956 until his death in 1966, although his family lived at the compound until 2008 when it was sold to the current owner.

Approached through a 16th century gatehouse and along a long private drive through parkland and past lakes, Combe Florey House makes a striking first impression with its classical red ashlar sandstone facade with yellow ashlar door flanked by a double flight of steps with balustrades.

Inside, the property is elegantly proportioned and features fine period detail seen in the panelling, mouldings, original flooring, and chimneypieces.

A large orangerie marks the transition from formal living spaces to informal family room, and there is a wonderful modern kitchen and breakfast room.

The 12-bedroom residence has been tastefully restored and updated for modern living, offering 16,200 square feet of living spaces with plenty of charm.

Outside, the property is surrounded by formal gardens with a flagstone terrace, and there's also an entertaining pavilion onsite. The grounds include walled gardens with a tennis court, swimming pool and an entertaining pavilion.

The property comes with a 3-bedroom cottage.

All photos belong to the listing agency.