Normandy/Worplesdon GU3 2BZ An exceptional, unique and historic property - Robert Cecil Place is the major portion of an imposing hunting lodge set in an ancient crown estate of some 26 acres. With exciting and adaptable accommodation over three floors and various high quality features throughout, this is a home of extreme finesse and refinement. 6 Bedrooms 路 2 Receptions 路 4 Bathroom/Shower Rooms 路 2 Kitchens 路 Double Garage
REF: 362691
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Property Profile Henley Park is an imposing hunting lodge set in an ancient crown estate belonging to Windsor Castle. It is first mentioned in the Doomsday Book in 1066. The house is of historic interest, since among other notables, its visitors included Elizabeth I and Henry VIII. Robert Cecil, Secretary of State under Elizabeth I and James I, younger son of William Cecil, 1st Lord Burghley, was one of the owners of the lodge. In fact, he famously uncovered the gunpowder plot of 1605. The foundations of the house date back to Saxon times, however, the core building is assumed to be 13th century, with the facade redesigned in the 18th century in Georgian style to please the bride of its then owner. In more recent times, Edward VII was a regular guest at the house and indeed, a wing was specially added to accommodate him. The house and the park are a designated area of "high archaeological interest". Throughout the ages, several of the then Prince of Wales planted trees in the park, including the chestnut trees in front of the house, which are calculated to be around 600 years old, and a cedar gifted by Charles I (c. 1620). The major portion on offer has some historic features, such as the 16th century priest's hole discovered during the last renovation process (2008), and mantlepieces bearing the coat of arms of the last royal residents from Europe. There is also the further advantage of excellent natural security provided by the long driveway (with electric gates), besides which, the house also has a secure room. The lodge has undergone extensive refurbishment in 1998 and again 2008. Offering comfortable, spacious family accommodation over three floors, there are three very practical small storage rooms, a porcelain and cutlery room, accessible from the banqueting room, an additional Mielefitted kitchen on the first floor (with a third dishwasher for dog bowls), as well as the very large main kitchen on the ground floor, currently used by a professional chef. With high ceilings, open fireplaces and top quality decor, including marble flooring, the whole comes together harmoniously to give the lodge its particular character, and is the visible hallmark of the loving care which its previous owners have lavished on it. There is a published monograph about the house, which was also the subject of press reports throughout Europe.
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Garden & Exterior
Location
The park has many delightful aspects, such as a ladies' walk, channels, bridges, some subterranean paths, or a man-made island set in what used to be a lake, which any passing stroller might discover. It has a tranquil setting in its own park, with interesting flora and fauna, including plenty of wildlife.
The setting is an attractive semi-rural location on the outskirts of Guildford, on the border of Worplesdon and Pirbright, surrounded by green fields and open spaces but at the same time no more than a short drive from Guildford's beautiful and historic town centre with its cobbled High Street and character buildings.Accessibility to train stations into London Waterloo is excellent, with Guildford, Woking, Brookwood or Worplesdon all close at hand. There are a network of major roads closeby including the M3, M25 and A3 which not only provide vehicular access to London and the south coast, but also both Heathrow and Gatwick Airports. Surrounded by miles of green hills and open countryside much of which is very easily reached from Henley Park while a short drive will take you deep into the heart of the Surrey Hills where you will find a string of English villages amidst countryside which has been designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty.
The property is reached by a 3/4 mile long driveway, and there are many lovely walks in the surrounding woods and fields reached directly from the lodge. In the early mornings, deer can often be spotted on the front lawn. There is a charming and private south-westerly facing walled garden with a sun terrace and a fountain. The detached double garage come with additional allocated private parking spaces.
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Floorplan
SECOND FLOOR
GROUND FLOOR
FIRST FLOOR
Dimensions Ground Floor 1,316 sq ft (122.3 m2) Approx Internal
First Floor 1,284 sq ft (119.2 m2) Approx Internal
Second Floor 891 sq ft (82.8 m2) Approx Internal
Gross Internal Floor Area 3,481 sq ft (324.3 m2) Approx Internal
Sales Enquiries: Guildford 路 01483 458800 路 guildford@curchods.com 4, London Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 2AF
IMPORTANT NOTICE: We endeavour to make our sales particulars accurate and reliable, however, they do not constitute or form part of an offer or any contract and none is to be relied upon as statements of representation or fact. The services, systems and appliances listed in this specification have not been tested by us and no guarantees as to their operating ability or efficiency are given. All measurements have been taken as guide to prospective buyers only, and are not precise. If you require clarification or further information on any points, please contact us.