Towering amongst the stunning parkland setting in the Surrey Hills Area of Natural Beauty is Albury Park Mansion, a magnificent estate that dates back a century — it's mentioned in the Domesday Book — and which has had a great house at its heart since the early 17th century. The house has evolved over the years, and as it stands now bears the fingerprints of one of the great 19th century architects, Augustus Pugin, who remodelled it for Henry Drummond in the 19th century.
That evolution has continued into the 21st century, and recently it was divided into 12 elegant apartments blending contemporary touches with traditional architecture. One of those apartments is now on the market: a three-bed, first floor apartment currently for sale via Knight Frank at a guide price of £1.65 million.
The estate, with amounts to 150 acres, is owned by the Duke of Northumberland and has long been enjoyed by royals and film stars throughout its history — most notably in 1761, where King George III hosted his post-coronation ball at the estate. The asking price might be a lot for a three-bedroom house, but the setting and the building offer rare history and grandeur which can cost tens of millions in this part of the world.
St Paul's Church, located within the estate grounds, was used as the setting for Four Weddings and a Funeral, during the famous wedding scene between Carrie, played by Andie MacDowell, and Hamish, Corin Redgrave. Episodes of the television series Midsomer Murders have also filmed in the house and grounds on the estate.
The historic estate, which features 63 unique candlestick chimneys, has frequented the pages of Country Life in the past, as it is known as one of Surrey's 'most important country houses.'
The three bedroom apartment is well presented and thought-out, (thanks to the thorough and and strategic renovation of the entire property, undertaken in 2011) and is composed of an impressive drawing room, plus a modern kitchen with adjoining dining room, utility, bathroom and study.
The main bedroom benefits from a large dressing area and ensuite, with the one of the two remaining bedrooms boasting a jacuzzi bath (good luck trying to keep over zealous guests from not out-staying their welcome).
The real focal point of this apartment (if the beautiful interiors, access to five acres of beautifully kept grounds plus spectacular surroundings weren't enough) is the private roof terrace, complete with its own bar — the perfect place for entertaining or enjoying a quiet sundowner in the secluded spot.
Flat 3 in Albury Park Mansion is currently for sale via Knight Frank at a guide price of £1.65 million — see more pictures or enquire with the agent for further details.
Albury: What you need to know
Location: Albury is a small village set with the Surry Hills Area of Natural Beauty, four miles from Guilford town centre. There are a number of train stations in the surrounding area — Chilworth being the closest which offers links to London Waterloo.
Atmosphere: Albury is a picturesque village that enjoys several pubs, is home to a village church, a cricket club and football club.
Things to do: Oenophile's can enjoy the local wine from Albury Vineyard, whilst keen anglers can enjoy fly fishing on the estate grounds. The surrounding village of Shere and the countryside around the estate are worth exploring, with numerous walks and cycling routes available. The town of Guilford is also a short drive away for shopping and further amenities.
Schools: Chilworth C of E (aided) Infant School is rated outstanding by Ofsted, with Peaslake Free School and Sheere C of E Aided Infant School both receiving good ratings. Guilford County School and Guilford High School are good secondary options closer to Guilford.
See more property for sale in the area.
-
The otterhound — the story behind Britain's rarest breed of dogBred for centuries to hunt otters in icy rivers, these shaggy, web-footed hounds were once favoured by royalty. Today, fewer than 1,000 survive worldwide.
-
Five magnificent homes for sale, from Highland escape to a 17th century school, as seen in Country LifeWe take a look at some of the best homes to come to the market via Country Life.
-
Five magnificent homes for sale, from Highland escape to a 17th century school, as seen in Country Life
We take a look at some of the best homes to come to the market via Country Life.
-
A castle that's 'a masterpiece of the baronial revival' with 17 bedrooms, breathtaking gardens and its own miniature railwayMajestic, imposing, graceful, romantic... Ayton Castle is the very picture of
-
'One of the finest houses in Cheshire' blends Georgian architecture, modern exoticism and space to park your helicopterPenny Churchill looks inside Stretton Hall, an exceptional house for sale
-
Splendid isolation at four gorgeous properties for sale around the worldFor those craving a home that offers a true escape from the world, some wonderful properties are on the market right now. Here's our pick of some of the finest — ideal for nature lovers, those in search of tranquility and Bond villains alike.
-
The market for super-prime houses in England's biggest millionaire's playground is booming — and this £10m example is one of the bestWhirley Hall is a 17th century building that's a perfect example of how 21st century updates can transform an old home almost beyond recognition.
-
If I had to spend the rest of my life living underground, I would do it in this four-bedroom house for sale in the Peak DistrictThe aptly named Underhill is a 'a work of inhabitable art' that was built in the 1970s. And there's a swimming pool in the middle of it.
-
A micro estate for sale in west Wales shows that the best things come in small packages. In this case, three of themBrithdir is a remarkable collection of properties centred around a lake and just five miles from the sea.
-
This blissful converted mill has sweeping views, a breathtaking library and gardens by a Chelsea gold medallistPenny Churchill takes a look at Stanbridge Mill, one of the finest properties for sale today in the west country.
