A handsome detached Edwardian house with wonderfully balanced proportions, mature gardens and a calm, considered interior. Behind its distinctive red-brick façade lie two generous reception rooms, an extended kitchen opening directly to the garden and four bedrooms arranged across three floors. Original features have been carefully preserved, while thoughtful updates support contemporary family life. The result is a house that feels both elegant and welcoming, with bright, well-connected living spaces and a wonderful sense of flow between house and garden.
The Property - Set behind a low brick boundary wall and driveway, this is a substantial semi-detached house dating from the early years of the twentieth century. Decorative timber detailing, tall windows and a broad front gable give the building a strong architectural presence, while the red-brick elevations remain remarkably well preserved.
The home unfolds from a central hallway. To the front sits a beautifully proportioned reception room, where a bay window, fireplace and generous ceiling heights create an immediate sense of character. A second reception room lies beyond and is currently arranged as a gym, though its proportions would equally lend themselves to a formal dining room, library or family room. There is also a downstairs WC.
At the rear, the house opens into a bright kitchen and dining space extending over 21ft in length. A simple palette of cream cabinetry and dark worktops allows the garden views to take centre stage, while wide bi-fold doors create an easy transition between inside and out. The room works particularly well as the social heart of the house, connecting cooking, dining and outdoor living. There is also potential to extend further on either side STP.
The first floor contains three bedrooms. The principal bedroom occupies the front of the house and benefits from an en-suite shower room. A second generous double bedroom sits alongside, while a third bedroom overlooks the rear garden. A family bathroom with twin basins and contemporary finishes serves this level.
The top floor has been converted to provide a fourth bedroom beneath the eaves, together with a useful landing area currently arranged as a study. The space offers flexibility for guests, home working or older children seeking a degree of independence.
Throughout the house, period details remain intact, including fireplaces, moulded cornicing, deep skirtings and tall ceilings, all complemented by a restrained and contemporary decorative approach.
The Outside - The rear garden is one of the property's defining features. Considerably larger than many found this close to the city centre, it extends away from the house as a series of well-composed outdoor spaces.
Immediately outside the kitchen is a paved terrace designed for outdoor dining. Beyond lies a broad expanse of lawn framed by mature borders, established shrubs and flowering planting that provides colour and texture throughout the seasons. A beautifully shaped central tree creates a natural focal point and gives structure to the garden without compromising its sense of openness.
Towards the rear, further seating areas are tucked among the planting, creating quieter places to retreat throughout the day. The garden feels private, green and remarkably established.
To the front, a private driveway provides off-street parking, while side access leads directly to the rear garden.
The Area - Shrub End Road is one of Colchester's most established residential streets, well positioned to enjoy both the city centre and the surrounding green spaces of west Colchester.
The city centre is within easy reach and offers an excellent mix of independent cafés, restaurants, galleries and shops, alongside the historic core centred around Colchester Castle and Castle Park. Nearby Lexden remains one of the city's most sought-after neighbourhoods, known for its tree-lined streets and strong sense of community.
For commuters, Colchester North station provides regular direct services to London Liverpool Street, while road connections place both the A12 and wider Essex countryside within easy reach. The area is also well regarded for its selection of state and independent schools.
Further Information - Tenure: Freehold
Local Authority: Colchester City Council
Council Tax Band: D
Property Construction: Brick
Mains Gas, Electricity, Water and Sewerage
Mobile Coverage
EE Good outdoor
There is a good chance of getting a connection good enough to support mobile services. You may be able to get limited indoor coverage.
O2 Good outdoor, variable in-home
There is a variable chance of a good connection to support mobile services in parts of the home, as well as outdoors. Basic services such as voice and text messages are more likely to be available.
3 Good outdoor
There is a good chance of getting a connection good enough to support mobile services. You may be able to get limited indoor coverage.
Vodafone Good outdoor, variable in-home
There is a variable chance of a good connection to support mobile services in parts of the home, as well as outdoors. Basic services such as voice and text messages are more likely to be available.
Broadband Coverage
The table shows the predicted broadband services in your area.
Broadband type Highest available download speed Highest available upload speed Availability
Standard7 Mbps 0.8 Mbps Good
Superfast80 Mbps20 MbpsGood
Ultrafast1800 Mbps 220 Mbps Good
Networks in your area - Virgin Media, Openreach