Inside £11.4m Bridgerton-style Cheshire mansion with a lake

Fans of the popular Netflix series Bridgerton have been eagerly anticipating the release of its third season, and as of today (May 16), the first four episodes are now available for viewing. The series, based on Julia Quinn's bestselling romance novels, takes viewers into the world of London's high society during 'the season' - an annual event where elite families seek suitable matches for their offspring.

Expected to be viewed by millions worldwide, the latest instalment introduces a fresh batch of debutantes vying for the spotlight at the ball, while Penelope Featherington, who leads a secret life as the town's anonymous gossip columnist Lady Whistledown, navigates a complicated romance with Colin Bridgerton.

Amidst the whirlwind of love, friendships, secrets and scandals, it's impossible to overlook the magnificent stately homes, rural castles and Royal palaces that house the wealthiest members of 'the ton'. To celebrate the launch of the third season, we've discovered a property on the market in Cheshire that perfectly encapsulates the Regency elegance synonymous with Bridgerton.

Currently listed for a staggering £11.4 million is Dorfold Hall, a remarkable 10-bedroom residence that has been meticulously restored by its present owners to harmoniously merge contemporary living with historic architecture.

Savills is selling an incredible mansion tucked away in a quiet corner of Nantwich, Cheshire. The property, known as Dorfold Hall, comes with its own estate featuring a manor house, stunning Victorian gardens, a lake, a tennis court, extensive farmland and a large event space used for weddings and corporate events, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Dorfold Hall has a rich local history dating back to the 17th century. It was reportedly built in 1616, with construction sped up to accommodate King James I during a Royal visit, according to Savills.

The Hall currently serves dual purposes, with areas open to the public and private family quarters. It spans five bays, including an 18th-century bay at the east end, and covers approximately 15,000 square feet across three floors.

The property retains many original period features. The ground floor includes a morning room, dining room, library, bespoke kitchen, pantry, playroom, two additional rooms and one bedroom.

The lower ground floor houses a snug, billiards room, laundry rooms, storage room, boot room and access to the housekeeper's flat. The Hall boasts ten bedrooms in total, split evenly on either side.

The western bedrooms are used in conjunction with the wedding venue, providing on-site accommodation for guests.

One of the most historically significant bedrooms is the King James Bedroom, complete with an en-suite. This room is often used as the Bridal Suite for weddings hosted at the Hall.

The grand grounds span a total of 16 acres, with the vibrant South Lawn showcasing hydrangeas, hundreds of David Austin roses and perennials, all enclosed by a low sandstone wall listed as Grade II and dating back to 1827. Beyond this lies extensive parkland and views over the surrounding farmland.

To the west of the Hall, two enclosed walled gardens can be found. One boasts a tennis court and a delightful wildflower meadow, while the other, spanning two acres, was historically planted with Christmas trees.

A beautiful lake, restored by the current owners, stretches from the end of the main driveway.

Scattered throughout the gardens are statues and features that narrate the estate's rich history. A Pierre-Louis Rouillard statue of a mastiff and her pups graces the forecourt, with a bronze equivalent residing in the Louvre in Paris.

Also part of the estate is the award-winning L'Ecurie event space, completed in 2021 and recognised by RIBA (The Royal Institute of British Architects) in 2023 for Regional and Building of the Year. It offers four distinct areas designed for weddings and events, capable of accommodating 180 guests.

Additionally, The Coach House and The Tack Room, both incorporating original structures blended with modern features and architecture, provide unique entertaining areas.

Currently utilised for hospitality, these properties offer a wealth of potential uses, including car storage and a leisure complex, subject to obtaining the necessary planning permissions. The estate boasts an impressive 26.6 acres of farmland and approximately 16 acres of mature woodland, providing both privacy and natural beauty.

Nestled within the estate's picturesque parkland is the Showground, a large-scale event space that has hosted world-class shows and festivals. For seven decades, it was the venue for The Nantwich Show, attracting crowds of up to 35,000.

In recent years, the estate has also been the annual host of the Spooktacular, drawing in a crowd of 8,000, along with several charity events.

Located in the idyllic county of Cheshire, Dorfold Hall Estate offers the perfect balance of rural charm and accessibility.

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