• The Emplins is a Grade II* listed former hall house, positioned in the heart of the picturesque village of Gamlingay.

• Attractive 6 Bedroom Detached House in approx 0.37 acres

• 6 miles from Sandy (direct trains to London in 49 minutes)

• Comprises 3,001 sq. ft plus garage, vegetable garden and garden

• To be offered for sale via Knight Frank Auctions on 18th September 2025 (unless sold or withdrawn prior).

Property Description

With origins tracing back several centuries, this unique timber-framed home has been thoughtfully conserved and enhanced, offering an exceptional opportunity to acquire one of Cambridgeshire’s most treasured period residences.

Originally constructed as a grand hall house, The Emplins later served as a rectory under the ownership of Merton College, Oxford. Historical accounts from 1602 describe it as part of a prosperous farmstead enclosed by a courtyard of agricultural buildings. In more recent history, The Emplins has been a much-loved and carefully maintained family home for over 40 years, cherished and preserved with immense care and attention to detail. From the outside, its striking jettied upper storey and distinctive timber-framed façade set a commanding tone. Inside, the house is a showcase of rich period character: leaded mullion windows, intricately carved linenfold panelling, rare wall paintings, and exposed structural timbers throughout. The centrepiece is the breathtaking Great Hall, a generous L-shaped reception space, featuring a grand inglenook fireplace, original timbers, and a hand-carved linenfold door that adds drama and texture. Beyond the Great Hall, the ground floor accommodation includes a welcoming entrance lobby and study nook, which flows into a formal dining room enriched by an early Ogee arch and historic window details. The oak-panelled sitting room enjoys another characterful fireplace, while the traditional kitchen/breakfast room is fitted with handmade cabinetry and benefits from lovely garden views. Practical elements include a linen drying/boiler room, ample storage space, and two stair lobbies providing access to the upper floor.

The first floor offers up to six bedrooms across different wings of the house. Two are located in the central section, while a further two, along with a shower room, are found in the area historically used as the Guildhall. These rooms feature round-topped mullioned windows that have been sensitively adapted with glazed sliding panels. One especially atmospheric bedroom, adorned with original wall paintings and relocated linenfold panelling, offers great potential as a home office, studio or dressing room, leading through to the part-vaulted principal bedroom and adjacent bathroom. Externally, the property is equally enchanting. The gardens have been tenderly developed over the years to provide structure, colour, and privacy, with a wonderful array of hedging, mature trees, flowering beds and topiary. A formal herb garden at the rear leads through a wisteria-draped archway into a productive vegetable garden, alongside a garage and garden stores. This is a property where every element has been carefully considered and deeply loved.

TENURE

Freehold

TENANCY

Vacant

EPC

see legal pack


Open House Viewings:
Saturday 12th July: 12:00pm midday - 12:30pm
Sunday 13th July: 12:00pm midday - 12:30pm
Tuesday 15th July: 12:00pm midday - 12:30pm
Tuesday 15th July: 7:00pm - 7:30pm
Please arrive at the start time.

Location

The Emplins is situated in the well-regarded Cambridgeshire village of Gamlingay, a friendly and well-served community offering a supermarket, GP surgery, post office and a selection of local shops. Just a short drive away are the market towns of Sandy and Biggleswade, with further amenities including pubs, independent retailers and farm shops. For those commuting or looking to enjoy a balance between village life and urban access, Cambridge is around 40 minutes away by car, offering its globally renowned university, beautiful architecture, and wide range of cultural, retail and dining experiences.

Tenure

Freehold

Auction Details: The sale of this property will take place on the stated date by way of Auction and is being sold as on an Unconditional basis. Binding contracts of sale will be exchanged at the point of sale. All sales are subject to the Common Auction Conditions and Extra General Conditions. Auctioneer Fees and Deposit. The following deposits and non-refundable auctioneer fees apply: • 10% deposit of the purchase price, subject to a minimum of £5,000. The deposit contributes to the purchase price. • Buyer’s Fee- is £1950 including VAT. This is only payable by the successful purchaser. There are no costs to bidding for the property. The Buyer’s Fee does not contribute to the purchase price and will be considered as part of the chargeable consideration for the property in the calculation of stamp duty liability. There may be additional fees contained within the Special Conditions of Sale, which can be viewed within the Legal Pack. You are strongly advised to read the Legal Pack carefully and take professional advice before bidding. Additional Information: For full details about all auction methods and sale types please refer to the Auction Conduct Guide which can be viewed on the Knight Frank Auctions’ website. This guide includes details on the auction registration process, your payment obligations and how to view the Legal Pack. Each property sold is subject to a Reserve Price. The Reserve Price will be within + or – 10% of the Guide Price. The Guide Price is issued solely as a guide so that a buyer can consider whether or not to pursue their interest. A full definition can be found within the Auction Conduct Guide.