10 bed equestrian for sale

Plumley, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16

Holford Hall is a magnificent country estate featuring a historic moat hall and beautifully restored Mill House in approximately
125 acres (50.6ha)

Holford Hall is an exceptional Grade II* listed timber-framed country house, set within a rare moated island west of the village of Plumley in Cheshire. Built in 1601 for Mary Cholmondeley, the hall was originally part of a grand quadrangular residence, of which the central section now remains. Its striking black-and-white façade features jettied upper floors, ornate gables, and classical pilasters, showcasing the craftsmanship of the period.

The surrounding moat and 17th-century sandstone bridge add to the hall’s charm and historical significance, while archaeological remains hint at a once larger estate, including a chapel and north wing.

Following a sensitive restoration, Holford Hall has been transformed into an elegant private estate with formal gardens and a beautifully converted event barn. Today, it offers a unique blend of heritage and contemporary living, making it not only a remarkable piece of Cheshire’s architectural history but also a prestigious and versatile countryside residence.

Lot 1 - Holford Hall

Ground floor
The ground floor of Holford Hall is a showcase of its distinguished heritage, with grand reception rooms that embody centuries of architectural character.

The principal drawing room, with its exposed timber beams, stone-mullioned windows and majestic fireplace, creates an unforgettable setting for formal entertaining, while a second reception room, equally rich in original woodwork and period detailing, offers flexibility as a dining room or library.

These rooms, with their views across the landscaped grounds, are complemented by a more contemporary open-plan kitchen and family sitting area to the rear, blending modern practicality with timeless charm.

First floor
The first floor is designed around a central landing that opens into a magnificent family room, a natural gathering place that extends onto a balcony overlooking the gardens. Three elegant bedrooms are arranged across this level, including two with en suites and one enhanced by a generous walk-in wardrobe. With a further family bathroom completing the floor, the sense of scale and refinement is matched by comfort and convenience, offering a home equally suited to family life and entertaining on a grand scale.

The second floor provides a more tranquil retreat, with two additional bedrooms, one en suite, and a private study ideally suited for working from home or quiet reflection. A spacious landing enhances the sense of light and openness, serving as an informal sitting area and underlining the versatility of the accommodation. Balancing heritage and lifestyle, this level offers the perfect sanctuary for guests, older children, or those seeking peace and privacy within the grandeur of the Hall.

Outbuildings, gardens and grounds
The grounds of Holford Hall provide a truly distinguished setting, blending formal gardens with areas of natural beauty. Sweeping lawns, intricate topiary and carefully planted borders frame the house to striking effect, while woodland walks and mature trees create a sense of privacy and tranquillity throughout the estate.

Alongside the landscaped gardens, the property offers excellent equestrian facilities, including a manège and well-planned stabling, making it perfectly suited to those with equestrian interests. These practical additions sit harmoniously within the wider grounds, adding versatility and lifestyle appeal to the estate.

A further highlight is the beautifully restored traditional brick barn, currently used as a wedding and events venue. With its impressive timber beams and adaptable open-plan layout, it provides a unique and flexible space for celebrations, entertaining or personal leisure. Together, the gardens, equestrian amenities and event facilities make Holford Hall an estate of character and opportunity.

Land
The property is accessed down its own private tree lined drive which meanders through its grounds. The property has a good balance of useful grazing paddocks, amenity parcels of woodland, together with productive arable land. The main dwelling and buildings sit centrally within the plot giving a high degree of privacy and amenity.

In all about 121.66 acres (49.23 hectares).

The Mill House
Within the grounds of Holford Hall, The Mill House offers a beautifully contemporary living environment. The house is designed with a focus on space, light and ease of use. The ground floor flows naturally between its generous living areas, with a large sitting room, separate snug and a bright dining area, all connected by a welcoming reception hall. At the rear, a conservatory opens directly onto the gardens, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living, while the kitchen is perfectly placed as the everyday heart of the home.

The first floor is dedicated to comfort and privacy, with four double bedrooms, each served by its own en suite. The arrangement allows every member of the household a sense of independence, while large windows and a private balcony bring in views of the gardens and surrounding landscape. The design ensures this level is both practical for family life and ideal for hosting overnight guests.

A further bedroom suite occupies the upper floor, complete with its own sitting area, providing a more secluded retreat that is perfectly suited to teenagers, guests or extended family. In addition, a lower ground floor offers useful extra space for storage or utility purposes. The Mill House stands as a light-filled and versatile residence, combining modern comfort with a sense of ease and informality, all set within the historic estate of Holford Hall.

Outbuildings, gardens and grounds
Adjacent to the principal dwelling sits an impressive brick two storey building with stabling and storage on the ground floor and a spacious first floor. The building has potential for a range of alternate uses subject to obtaining the necessary planning permissions.

The property is surrounded by its own delightful gardens, grounds and paddock together with a pond and wooded area adding to its overall appeal.

In all about 4.03 acres (1.63 hectares).

Situation
The estate is approached via a private entrance off Chester Road and sits just 2 miles west of the historic market town of Knutsford, providing a rare combination of seclusion and convenience. Its position affords easy access to the region’s main road networks, including the A556 and M6, making nearby cities such as Manchester and Chester readily accessible.

Knutsford itself offers a wealth of amenities, from boutique shops, cafés, and fine dining to essential services, creating a vibrant yet charming local hub. The town is known for its excellent schooling options, including highly regarded primary and secondary schools, ensuring an ideal setting for families. The surrounding Cheshire countryside provides opportunities for outdoor pursuits, while local parks, walking trails, and equestrian facilities enhance the area’s lifestyle appeal.

This location blends natural beauty with practicality, offering the best of rural living without compromising on convenience. Whether entertaining guests, enjoying the equestrian facilities, or simply relishing the peaceful surroundings, Holford Hall benefits from its proximity to Knutsford’s amenities, high-quality schooling, and major transport links, making it a truly exceptional family home or country estate for modern living.

Fixtures and fittings
All fixtures, fittings and furniture such as curtains, light fittings, garden ornaments and statuary are excluded from the sale. Some may be available by separate negotiation.

Services
Mains water, electric and drainage. Ground source heat central heating.
None of the services or appliances, heating installations, plumbing or electrical systems have been tested by the selling agents.

The estimated fastest download speed currently achievable for the property postcode area is around 13 Mbps (data taken from on 01/09/2025). Actual service availability at the property or speeds received may be different. We understand that the property is likely to have current mobile coverage (data taken from on 01/09/2025). Please note that actual services available may be different depending on the particular circumstances, precise location and network outages.

Tenure
The property is to be sold freehold with vacant possession.

Method of sale
The property is offered for sale by private treaty method however the vendor reserves the right to conclude the sale by an alternative method if required.

Local Authority
Cheshire East Borough Council

Council Tax Band H

Planning
The property has been subject to a number of planning permissions. Further details upon request.

Rural, environmental and woodland schemes
The land has historically been registered for payments under the Basic Payment Scheme. We are not aware of any environmental schemes affecting the land. We are not aware of any woodland schemes currently affecting the woodland.

Mineral, sporting and timber rights
The sporting, mineral and timber rights will be transferred with the freehold title where owned.

Public rights of way, wayleaves and easements
The property is sold subject to all rights of way, wayleaves and easements whether or not they are defined in this brochure. A public footpath crosses the land some distance from the principal dwelling.

Plans and boundaries
The plans within these particulars are based on Ordnance Survey data and provided for reference only. They are believed to be correct but accuracy is not guaranteed. The purchaser shall be deemed to have full knowledge of all boundaries and the extent of ownership. Neither the vendor nor the vendor’s agents will be responsible for defining the boundaries or the ownership thereof.

Anti Money Laundering Regulations (aml)
In accordance with Anti Money Laundering Regulations (aml), we are required to request forms of identification and carry out due diligence on any parties connected to a successful offer. Should an offer be made on behalf of a business/company, aml due diligence will also be necessary. Proof/source of funding must be supplied, prior to offer acceptance.

Viewings
Strictly by appointment through Fisher German LLP.

Directions
Postcode – WA16 0UA

what3words – ///skyrocket.plantings.blacked