Dream Homes: Hampstead Village

Looking for a period property with character? This historic estate is a dream come true.

If you’re drawn to the rolling greenery of Hampstead, this is your chance to snap up your own patch. This sprawling family estate is located in the heart of Hampstead Village and is set within 0.6 acres of beautifully manicured gardens. Formerly known as Frognal Lodge, the estate comprises a pair of semi-detached Grade II listed Georgian houses that were once combined to form a grand singular property, as well as a separate coach house and garage. The nine-bed abode is arranged over two floors and boasts a spacious orangery with mature vines that leads directly onto the green carpet-like lawns that are framed with herbaceous borders, ornamental trees, and shrubs. You could not get any more quintessentially English.

The loveliness continues inside with a labyrinth of beautifully appointed rooms that make up the property’s unique and characterful layout. Expect period features aplenty with perfectly maintained parquet flooring, huge light-loving sash windows, and a magnificent staircase in natural wood complete with spiralling spindles. There are plenty of surprises in this property with room after room of versatile accommodation together with quirky book nooks and cosy sun traps. The split-level gardens, too, offer hideaway places with mature trees and red brick walls.

Located in a huge verdant plot, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re in a countryside estate here, but Hampstead tube station is just minutes away, as is the buzzy Hampstead High Street and of course the Heath in which nature lovers will have their fill. Some of the area’s top local schools are also within easy walking distance, making this one enviable address all round. Admittedly, you’ll need deep pockets, but this historic estate, on the market for the first time since 1931, really is the stuff of property dreams.

£22 million, Goldschmidt & Howland (020 7435 4404; g-h.co.uk)