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October 11, 2024updated Oct 31, 2024

This Historic Thatched Cottage Sits Inside London’s Richmond Park

Residents can enjoy contemporary comfort surrounded by the natural beauty of one of London's largest green spaces.

By Grace Taylor

Richmond, already one of London’s most coveted neighborhoods, has recently experienced a surge of international fame as the picturesque backdrop for the hit series Ted Lasso. A short drive from central London, the revered neighborhood offers visitors a delightful blend of urban charm and natural beauty, with a village-like atmosphere, a riverside location and a collection of high-end shops and culinary destinations.

At the heart of the neighborhood lies Richmond Park, the crown jewel of the area’s faux-countryside appeal. Established in 1637 by King Charles I as a royal hunting ground, this sprawling royal park covers 2,500 acres, with ancient woodlands, sweeping grasslands and herds of roaming deer, offering a tranquil escape from London’s hustle and bustle.

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Pembroke Cottage
Pembroke Cottage was originally built as the gate lodge to Pembroke Lodge / ©Knight Frank

Tucked within the royal park is Pembroke Lodge, a residence steeped in impressive British history. Originally a humble cottage, over the centuries Pembroke Lodge has evolved into a historically significant site, hosting various royal figures, politicians and luminaries. The estate’s story begins in the mid-18th century, when Elizabeth, Countess of Pembroke, fell in love with its charm and secured it from King George III. With the expertise of renowned architects John Soane and Henry Holland, the lodge was transformed into a Georgian masterpiece.

Throughout its history, Pembroke Lodge has welcomed esteemed figures such as Charles Dickens, Lewis Carroll, William Gladstone, Prime Minister Lord John Russell and even Queen Victoria herself. Notably, it served as the childhood home of Nobel Laureate philosopher Bertrand Russell, who remarked on its breathtaking views, saying he “grew accustomed to wide horizons and an unimpeded view of the sunset.” During World War II, Pembroke Lodge played a pivotal role as a military command post and after falling into disrepair in the post-war era, a meticulous restoration in the late 1990s brought it back to its former glory.

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Kitchen of Pembroke Cottage
The lower ground floor is designed for entertaining, featuring a gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, an AGA gas stove and an expansive dining area / ©Knight Frank

Now, a part of the wondrous lodge is available for purchase. Pembroke Cottage — originally built as the gate lodge to Pembroke Lodge — presents a unique opportunity to own a piece of British heritage. The three-story, 2,844-sq-ft residence is set on a generous 19,100-sq-ft plot, providing a serene retreat just moments from the vibrant pulse of London. Nestled within Richmond Park, Pembroke Cottage offers a rare lifestyle, where residents can enjoy contemporary comfort surrounded by the natural beauty of one of London’s largest green spaces.

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Meticulously renovated in 2003, Pembroke Cottage showcases a fascinating blend of traditional features and contemporary design, with three bedrooms, four bathrooms and two reception rooms. Light stone and a thatched roof give the luxury property an adorable cottage feel, while the immaculately kept gardens add a touch of fairytale charm.

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Bedroom inside Pembroke Cottage
The ensuite principal bedroom boasts a skylight and panoramic views /©Knight Frank

Upon arriving at Pembroke Cottage through the house’s private gates, you’re greeted by oak-beamed vaulted ceilings and a cantilevered limestone staircase. The ground floor features spacious reception rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame breathtaking views of the Thames Valley, filling the property with natural light. This leads through to a study, with both rooms having access to their respective balconies. The thoughtfully arranged layout also includes two charming bedrooms and a large family bathroom on the ground floor. Ascend the bespoke staircase to discover the ensuite principal bedroom, which boasts a skylight and panoramic views.

The lower ground floor is designed for entertaining, featuring a gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, an AGA gas stove and an expansive dining area that flows onto a charming patio garden. Here, you can host gatherings or simply relax amidst beautifully landscaped gardens, providing complete privacy in this idyllic setting.

knightfrank.com

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