• Rich historical provenance — home of the Rivers horticultural dynasty +
• Georgian architecture meets bold modern style +
• 4-bed main house Plus addition 2 beds in existing annex +
• Planning approved for second annex & access improvements +
• 1.3 acres of beautiful, storied gardens +
• Striking period features throughout +
• Ideal for multigenerational living or creative retreats +
• Underfloor Heating +
• Large Double Garage with electric door +
• Prestigious location with a short walk to the centre of town and train station +

Bonks Hill House is not merely a home—it's a piece of living history. Once the residence of Thomas Rivers, a horticultural visionary who corresponded with Charles Darwin and transformed fruit cultivation in England, this Georgian gem is rooted in over 300 years of botanical brilliance. Set within 1.3 acres of lush heritage gardens, this 4-bedroom masterpiece is accompanied by a self contained 2 bed annex and comes with planning permission for a second annex and revised road access. With elegance at every turn, from stately rooms to a striking mural feature wall, this is a home that stirs emotion and invites inspiration. For those seeking a home of substance, soul, and future scope, Bonks Hill House is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.  Inside:
Timeless Georgian character with a contemporary artistic twist
4 bright, generously proportioned bedrooms
Feature hallway mural—bold and distinctive
Large living areas with open fireplaces
Modern, high-spec kitchen-diner with garden views
Tasteful blend of heritage floors, fireplaces & chic modern fixtures Adjoining annex with private living, kitchen & 2 bedrooms
Scope for multi-generational living or guest retreat A second coach house annex with planning for conversion Ref: 3/19/2504/LBC
A new, elegant road access with reduced-height walls and estate fencing Change of Road Access Ref 3/23/0473/HH
 
 Outside:
Sprawling 1.2-acre estate-style garden once part of the famed Rivers Nursery
Mature trees, historic plantings & open lawns Large Double Garage with electric door Shingle driveway with ample parking
 
 Historical Legacy:
Home to the Rivers family, founders of Rivers Nursery (est. 1725)
Thomas Rivers pioneered new rose & fruit varieties—like the Early Rivers plum
His son, Thomas Francis Rivers, introduced the Conference pear
The family maintained a 400-acre nursery empire and published horticultural works still in use today
Direct ties to Charles Darwin through botanical collaboration
WWII: Requisitioned by the army; the house has stood through pivotal moments in British history
Now part of the Rivers Heritage Orchard movement
 
 Local Area:
Located in the picturesque Sawbridgeworth, steeped in agricultural and cultural heritage
Minutes to Sawbridgeworth train station with London Liverpool Street access
Excellent local schools, charming pubs, and independent shops
Walking distance to Rivers Heritage Orchard & community events
Quick access to Stansted Airport, M11, Bishop’s Stortford & Harlow