5 Bedroom Detached House, Hightown Road, Ringwood, BH24

Set behind iron railings and approached via a long gravel driveway, Southend House is a substantial and distinguished Grade II listed home offering approximately 3,287 sq ft of accommodation, set within a plot of around 0.24 acres. Rich in character and history, it is a rare and commanding presence in the heart of Ringwood.

A solid timber front door opens into an elegant entrance hall where patterned tiled flooring, wall panelling and original internal doors immediately establish the tone of the house. To the front, the sitting room enjoys tall sash windows, alcove cupboards and shelving, half height panelling and a wood burning stove set within a marble surround, creating a warm and inviting space with real presence. Alongside sits a charming dining room, also positioned to the front of the property, offering generous proportions and a formal setting for entertaining.

From the entrance hall, an inner hallway leads through the heart of the house, where herringbone parquet flooring flows into a beautifully appointed study. This room features a bespoke fitted desk with twin seating areas, cupboards and drawers, making it ideal for home working while retaining a sense of period elegance. The staircase rises from the inner hallway, with a gracefully shaped handrail and spindles, and useful storage tucked neatly beneath.

Stained patterned glass double doors open into the conservatory, a striking central space that blends seamlessly with the character of the house. Fully glazed with a low perimeter wall, patterned tiled flooring and underfloor heating, this is a wonderful year round living area. Doors open directly onto the rear garden, creating an effortless connection between inside and out.

The kitchen breakfast room sits at the heart of the home and is both practical and full of charm. Solid painted wood cabinetry is paired with granite worktops, a ceramic sink and space for a range cooker, dishwasher and upright fridge freezer. With windows to the front and side, a cast iron column radiator and ample room for a table and chairs, this is a space designed for everyday living.

A vestibule leads from the kitchen to the rear garden via a stable door, while an original beggars hatch connects through to the utility room. The utility room is rich in character, with flagstone flooring and the benefit of underfloor heating, exposed painted brick chimney, additional ceramic sink and side windows with traditional monkey tail handles. There is space for laundry appliances and direct access to the garden, along with a ground floor shower room.

The first floor landing is notably spacious and enjoys a rear aspect window overlooking the garden. From here, five double bedrooms are arranged, each clearly defined and well proportioned. Bedroom one and bedroom two are positioned to the front of the house, both enjoying sash windows and period features. Bedroom three sits centrally, while bedroom four and bedroom five overlook the rear garden.

The first floor is served by a family bathroom and an additional shower room, both positioned off the landing. A discreet door provides access to the roof space, which offers further potential to develop subject to the necessary consents.

Outside, the front garden is enclosed by painted iron railings believed to have been reclaimed from a ship, framing mature flower beds, shrubs and established trees. A long gravel driveway runs along the side of the house, providing extensive off road parking and access to the outbuildings.

The rear garden is private and well proportioned, with areas of shingle ideal for outdoor dining, a central pathway leading to lawn and well stocked borders. The outbuildings comprise two separate store rooms along with a substantial triple garage block, featuring three sets of double doors opening directly onto the gravel driveway. These provide excellent storage, garaging and flexibility for future use, subject to any necessary consents.

The History of Southend House

Southend House is believed to stand on a site with origins dating back centuries, forming part of the historic Manor of Ringwood Rectory. The earliest dwelling is thought to have been a medieval hall house, which over time evolved in line with the growth and prosperity of Ringwood itself.

During the Elizabethan period, the house was enlarged and refined with the introduction of upper floors, staircases and fireplaces, marking its transition into a substantial family residence. By the 18th century, it was recorded as a well built brick home with multiple rooms, outbuildings and extensive gardens, firmly established as one of the area’s principal houses.

Further enhancements during the Georgian era introduced the sash windows and refined façade that continue to define the house today. These layers of architectural evolution contribute to its Grade II listed status and give Southend House its distinctive depth of character, reflecting centuries of careful adaptation rather than modern pastiche.

Historically occupied by prominent local families, the house has long been connected to Ringwood’s development and heritage. Today, it remains a rare and tangible link to the town’s past, offering the opportunity to own not just a house, but a meaningful piece of local history.

Living on Hightown Road, Ringwood

Ideally positioned within easy reach of the town centre while retaining a sense of space and heritage. Ringwood itself is known for its traditional market town atmosphere, independent shops, cafés and restaurants, and strong sense of community.

The surrounding area offers excellent access to open countryside, with the New Forest National Park just a short distance away, providing endless opportunities for walking, cycling and outdoor pursuits. For commuters, Ringwood is well placed for routes to Bournemouth, Southampton and Salisbury, with nearby rail connections and easy access to the A31.

Living on Hightown Road offers the rare combination of a central yet private setting, historic surroundings and modern convenience, making it an ideal location for those seeking character, lifestyle and long term value in one of Hampshire’s most desirable market towns.