Douces Manor in West Malling

The restoration and conversion of historic Douces Manor in West Malling into just six apartments and the creation of a further 18 new homes within the parkland setting has been an immense challenge for developer, Beechcroft. 

After four years, the work is now complete and Beechcroft celebrated with a ‘Past & Present' event at which The Right Worshipful, The Mayor of Tonbridge and Malling, Councillor Chris Smith officially opened the development.

Guests at the event, including owners of the new homes, prospective purchasers, members of the public, local councillors and representatives of the Malling Society, joined the Beechcroft team for champagne and canapés in the 12 acre parkland setting. 

 Entertainment by singer, Jasmine Kittermaster, included songs from the Second World War as a tribute to the fact that, during World War II, the Manor was once home to RAF pilots flying out of West Malling.  During the event, all attendees took the time to visit ‘Twitch Inn,' a cellar bar used by the air aces stationed at Douces Manor, who etched their names in candlesoot on the white-washed walls and ceilings.

For 200 years, Douces Manor remained in private hands but after World War II, the house was used successively as a convalescent home, a private hotel and a conference centre.  In the mid 1960s, the house was vandalised; the lead roof was removed, the chandeliers stolen and a ‘Wedgwood' ceiling destroyed.  

 Repairs and restoration were carried out by subsequent owners but when Beechcroft acquired the property in 2004, the main house was in need of comprehensive restoration, the outbuildings required complete refurbishment and extensive landscaping work was necessary; this has all been carried out by specialist craftsmen. 

“We were delighted by the response to the official opening of Douces Manor and The Twitch Inn,” comments Angela South, Sales and Marketing Director for Beechcroft.  “This award-winning development has been a tremendous success and now we're marketing the final apartments and show homes. 

The ‘Past & Present' event provided the perfect opportunity for prospective buyers to appreciate just what Douces Manor has to offer as well as a way of thanking all those who have worked with us on this exciting and challenging project.”

The completed development is outstanding; the new homes sit comfortably with the original buildings and the formal gardens have been replanted.  It isn't surprising that only a few properties remain available, priced from £625,000. 

 Anyone interested in Douces Manor should contact the Beechcroft sales team on 01732 873078 between 10 am and 5 pm, Thursday to Monday inclusive.  

Information on all Beechcroft developments is available on the website at www.beechcroft.co.uk.