A breathtaking country estate formerly belonging to King Charles has hit the market for £4.5 million – and remarkably, His Majesty can still pop round, as long as he provides 24 hours’ notice.
Tucked away in the picturesque Dartmoor National Park lies Brimptsmead Estate, an elegant Edwardian country retreat initially built as a private hunting lodge.
Despite being sold by the King in 1993, His Majesty has cleverly retained fishing rights to the property, requiring just 24 hours’ advance warning – meaning prospective buyers could find themselves sharing these magnificent grounds with royalty.
Encircled by territory still predominantly owned by the Duchy, estate agents have hailed the property as a “truly rare opportunity to own freehold land in one of the most protected and treasured landscapes in the UK”.
Sprawling across nine acres, the principal residence has been “exquisitely restored” and features six bedrooms, five bathrooms, and numerous reception rooms spanning 5,984sq ft, reports Wales Online.
The estate also includes two charming cottages, a granite-constructed party barn and substantial garage facilities, according to Luxury Property News.
The current owner, who remains anonymous, has described this historic dwelling as a sanctuary of “beauty and deep tranquillity”, and was reportedly summoned to a London interview after showing interest in acquiring it during the 1990s.
They embarked upon comprehensive restoration works, ensuring “every decision made with authenticity in mind”. Some of these alterations feature bespoke leaded windows, bronze door fittings, restored period oak and satinwood panelling, cast iron radiators being installed, and subtle underfloor heating.
The proprietors preserved nine functioning fireplaces, describing how the residence became their family’s “sanctuary”, stating: “From evening gatherings in the panelled drawing room, to quiet mornings in the turret, to watching the sun set from the Shed’s balcony, Brimptsmead has been a place to live, to love, and to remember.”
Positioned separately from the principal residence are two cottages – called Bentley and Herb – which provide independent accommodation for visitors, extended family or personnel.
Furthermore, externally, Brimptsmead boasts a secluded, south-facing, and elevated location within Dartmoor National Park, with no public footpaths traversing the estate.
The grounds are magnificently established with lawns, ancient woodland, grass meadow and a gently sloping grass field where a gate opens onto open Duchy farm land.
The estate is presently available through By Design for £4.5 million.