An eerie abandoned mansion in south-east England is being gradually consumed by nature – despite lamps left by previous residents still glowing within.
Colin Hodson, who documented the property for his Bearded Explorer YouTube channel, has explored numerous derelict buildings throughout the years, but said “it was a very strange one” indeed.
The lavish residence on London’s periphery was previously owned by an ex-RAF officer who became a prosperous oil industry executive.
The home would appear as though inhabitants had merely popped out momentarily – if not for the creeping ivy tendrils weaving through every aperture.
Urban explorer Colin reveals he has “heard a few stories” regarding the property’s sudden desertion, though the definitive explanation remains elusive.
There must surely be compelling circumstances behind why this dwelling – valued at considerably more than £1,000,000 – has remained vacant for numerous years. Remarkably, not only do the lighting and security systems remain operational, but a classic BMW 3 Series sits in the property’s drive.
“That is a very desirable little car there,” observed Colin, recognised as somewhat of a motoring enthusiast. “Hopefully it can be saved one day.”
During his exploration of the deserted estate, Colin stumbles upon an even more remarkable discovery: an immaculate Jaguar XK8. “I cannot believe this is in here, this is crazy,” he exclaimed.
Further investigation revealed the vehicle was initially registered in 2001, with its MOT expiring in 2014. Colin remarked: “It currently has 19,000 miles on it, so I don’t think this car has been used a lot at all.”
Despite the likelihood of the car being valued at no more than £15,000, its pristine condition contributes to the enigma surrounding the house and why such a vehicle would be left untouched for an extended period.
Out-of-date food items in the kitchen cupboards date back nearly ten years, and the abundance of personal belongings and desirable furniture still present indicates that, although rodents may have infiltrated the rooms, there’s no evidence of vandalism.
One of Colin’s guiding principles is to avoid disclosing the exact locations of his discoveries to prevent attracting irresponsible parties who might come along to vandalise these properties.
While Colin ensures he leaves each location as he found it, unfortunately, not every ‘urban explorer’ content creator shows the same level of respect.
Detective Sergeant Kelle Westwood from North Worcestershire Proactive CID warns: “The rising trend of ‘urban explorers’ on social media brings with it the risk of prosecution to those caught entering private premises illegally and/or without permission.”
DS Westwood advises urban explorers to remain aware of legal boundaries and to take appropriate measures to ensure their safety and that of others.
Here and there on the walls of the mansion are framed prints which hint at the worldly experiences of the home’s previous occupants, suggesting they were quite the globetrotters.
There is also a unique collection of souvenirs containing the first drop of oil from sites that the former homeowner had supervised around the world.
There’s also a framed $75,000,000 (£55m) oil contract that must have represented one of the most significant deals the executive made.
While the former owners may well have been wealthy enough to own multiple properties, the sad state of this particularly valuable Home Counties mansion remains something of a mystery.