A HISTORICAL moated mansion has been listed for sale in Essex for over £6 million.

The Grade II listed house Stanstead Hall in Greenstead Green, has gone up for sale for a huge £6.5 million.

Braintree and Witham Times: Moated mansion - the moat to the house was built in 1341

Braintree and Witham Times: Rich history - Stanstead Hall has over almost 1,000 years of stories attached to it

Braintree and Witham Times: Stunning views - the house is surrounded by far-reaching Essex countryside

Soaked in rich history, the first evidence of a structure on the land where the manor house sits comes during the reign of Edward the Confessor, from 1042 to 1066.

Godwin, Earl of Wessex, inhabited a manor at Stanstead during that period before the estate was given to Robert Malet in 1092, and then to Hubert de Monchensy.

It was then passed by marriage to Walter of Colchester in the mid-13th century, and again to Sir John Bouchier, then his son Robert.

It was Robert who obtained a licence in 1341 make his home at Stanstead a castle, and the moat was constructed.

Braintree and Witham Times: Chef's quarters - the kitchen is one of many rooms in and around the mansion

Braintree and Witham Times: So many rooms - there are seven living rooms around the house

The manor remained in the hands of the Bouchier family until it passed to Sir William Parr, grandfather of Catherine Parr, the sixth and final wife of Henry VIII.

Sir William Parr lost his lands for supporting Lady Jane Grey; however, it was eventually given back by Queen Elizabeth.

It was then sold to Sir William Waldegrave, before being passed through various hands, with little being known about it from 1720 until 1907, when it came into the hands of Samuel Courtauld.

It was then, by marriage, given to R A Butler, Member of Parliament for Saffron Walden.

Braintree and Witham Times: Dining room - plenty of people can come over for dinner

Braintree and Witham Times: Rest and relax - take a seat and enjoy stunning views from the windows

Braintree and Witham Times: Take a nap - there are 13 bedrooms across the house

Now, Stanstead Hall is set in about 45 acres of gardens and paddocks in the Essex countryside.

Savills property agent Tim Phillips said: “Set in a little over 45 acres with beautiful gardens and paddocks, Stanstead Hall is a perfect example of a Tudor country house in a private setting which very much feels like a family home.

Braintree and Witham Times: Come on in - the long driveway meanders to the front of the house through an avenue of trees

“Entered via stunning brick pier electric gates, the long driveway meanders to the front of the house through an avenue of trees, with the extensive grounds featuring a walled garden, heated swimming pool, bar, pizza oven and gym, as well as a listed tithe barn.

Braintree and Witham Times: Take a dip - the pool is one of the many extensions outside the house

“The interiors of the property have retained several original features, from wood panelled fireplaces and corniced ceilings through to tapestry wall hangings and antique furniture which is a further reflection of its rich history.”

Braintree and Witham Times: Historic house - the mansion has retained several features including wooden floors, walls and staircases

Braintree and Witham Times: Don't look down - the stairs heading up to the first floor

Braintree and Witham Times: Keep warm - guests can stay toasty in the living quarters thanks to the fireplace

To view the propery in full, visit HERE