Norman Tower Cottage is a former office, constructed and occupied in the 1850s by Thomas Farrow. Farrow was stonemason to the critically acclaimed Suffolk-born architect Lewis Nockalls Cottingham, a champion of the Gothic Revival architectural movement whose notable works included remodelling Oxford University’s Chapel of Magdalene College interior in 1829.
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Cottingham also created Savings Bank House, which adjoins Norman Tower Cottage, in 1847 for the trustees of the Bury Savings Bank.
![The property was constructed in in the 1850s by Thomas Farrow, stonemason to the critically acclaimed architect Lewis Nockalls Cottingham]()
The property was constructed in in the 1850s by Thomas Farrow, stonemason to the critically acclaimed architect Lewis Nockalls Cottingham (Image: Whatley Lane) Selling agent Whatley Lane described Norman Tower Cottage as an “architectural jewel” with a stunning façade featuring red and black brickwork in a diamond motif, stone quoins, heraldic shields and gothic gargoyles. This is further complemented by an oriel window and a striking tower topped by a lead-covered spirelet.
![Period features include an ornate oriel window, gargoyles and heraldic shields]()
Period features include an ornate oriel window, gargoyles and heraldic shields (Image: Whatley Lane) Inside, Norman Tower Cottage has been “beautifully renovated” by the current owner to create a unique and stylish home boasting open plan living and dining areas and modern enhancements. The 1147 sq ft accommodation has been designed to capture as much of the property’s scenic views over Bury St Edmunds' ancient abbey as possible.
The property is Grade II listed and is available now with no onward chain.
The stone-carved entrance features decorative mouldings bearing the initials ‘T + F’ for Thomas Farrow, and a solid oak door with coach light above. This opens into the entrance hall, with its gothic ribbed and vaulted wood ceiling, travertine floor tiles and large adjoining vestibule, which Whatley Lane said is ideal for boots and cloaks.
![An original door with stained glass windows opens into the dining space]()
An original door with stained glass windows opens into the dining room (Image: Whatley Lane) From the entrance hall, an original door with stained glass windows opens into the bright and elegant dining space, which features several mullion windows and a limestone carved fireplace. This room also benefits from zoned underfloor heating and a cast iron Victorian style radiator.
The stylish kitchen is a particular highlight, fitted with high-gloss cream wall and base units with soft-closing deep pan drawers, Blanco ‘SteelArt’ work surfaces, stainless steel effect splashbacks and task lighting above.
![The kitchen includes modern appliances such as a dishwasher, induction hob, combi oven and microwave]()
The kitchen includes modern appliances such as a dishwasher, induction hob, combi oven and microwave (Image: Whatley Lane) There is a stainless steel sink with extendable mixer tap and Gorenje appliances including a dishwasher, below-counter refrigerator, induction hob, combi oven and microwave. The kitchen also enjoys zoned underfloor heating.
The basement, accessed off the kitchen, provides a useful storage and utility space. It includes two deep storage niches housing a washing machine and an additional refrigerator, and a cast iron Victorian style radiator.
![The basement provides an extra storage and utility space]()
The basement provides an extra storage and utility space (Image: Whatley Lane) A statement staircase with removable glass panels in the entrance hall rises to an impressive open-plan reception room boasting period features including the oriel window with upholstered window seat overlooking the Cathedral quarter, a limestone carved fireplace in the Gothic Revival style with oak tree detailing, and ornate coving.
![The first-floor reception room with window seat]()
The first-floor reception room with window seat (Image: Whatley Lane)![The gothic revival fireplace in the first-floor reception room]()
The Gothic Revival fireplace in the first-floor reception room (Image: Whatley Lane) There is a step to a split-level space which would be ideal for use as a study or snug. It is wired for entertainment and includes mullion windows and an arrow slit window.
Completing this floor is a bathroom with panelled bathtub and shower, WC and pedestal wash basin.
![The bedroom on the second floor includes a dressing area and remote-controlled sky lights]()
The bedroom on the second floor includes a dressing area and remote-controlled sky lights (Image: Whatley Lane) The entire second floor is given to the tranquil bedroom suite, which is accessed via another statement staircase with glazed panels and benefits from a large dressing area, exposed beams, a vaulted ceiling, dual aspect mullion windows, rain sensitive remote-controlled roof lights, extendable recessed swivel reading lamps and a cast iron basket feature fireplace.
A large storage cupboard on this floor provides access to the tower.
Externally, Norman Tower Cottage is accessed via a tree-lined avenue leading to a concealed and private residents' driveway.
![Norman Tower Cottage is approved via an avenue lined with lime trees]()
Norman Tower Cottage is approached via an avenue lined with lime trees (Image: Whatley Lane) ![The property is located in the heart of Bury St Edmunds Great Churchyard with impressive views of the Cathedral and surrounding greenery]()
The property is located in the heart of Bury St Edmunds' Great Churchyard with impressive views of the cathedral and surrounding greenery (Image: Whatley Lane) The parkland and gardens of Bury St Edmunds’ Cathedral Quarter are right on the doorstep. Nestled in the centre of the town, this historic site is home to St Edmundsbury Cathedral with its stunning Millennium Tower, as well as the ancient ruins of the former Benedictine Abbey, and the lush and serene Great Churchyard.
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The town itself is a hive of culture and activity, with a host of shops, restaurants, bars and attractions to explore. It also has direct rail links to Ipswich and London Liverpool Street.
For more information, please contact Whatley Lane.
PROPERTY FACTS
Norman Tower Cottage, Bury St Edmunds
Guide price: £485,000
Whatley Lane, 01284 765256
whatley-lane.co.uk
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