Vicarage Crescent, Battersea, London, SW11

Old Battersea House is one of London's most historically significant private residences. Built in 1699 on earlier Tudor foundations and widely believed to be the work of Sir Christopher Wren, the handsome red-brick house extends to approximately 10,164 sq ft, with a further 372 sq ft provided by the detached gymnasium.



The magnificent Grade II* listed late-17th-century house has seven bedrooms, exceptional reception rooms, a separate gymnasium and extensive walled gardens, moments from the Thames. Secure gates open to a generous driveway with parking for up to eight cars. Inside, a grand entrance hall and sweeping staircase greet visitors.



A two-year restoration, completed in 2022, introduced contemporary comforts without compromising the house's architectural character. High ceilings, oak floors and doors, panelling and working fireplaces appear throughout, and Loro Piana curtains dress the principal rooms.



The principal reception rooms are arranged across the ground floor. The morning room opens directly to the garden, while the drawing room is similarly well proportioned. On the opposite side, the kitchen and dining room forms a substantial space measuring approximately 42 ft in length, fitted with modern appliances. A study, breakfast room and guest cloakroom complete this floor

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Four bedrooms are found on the first floor. The principal bedroom is accompanied by a separate dressing room and bathroom, while three further bedrooms and three additional ensuite bathrooms suit family and guests alike.



The second floor contains three more bedrooms and three bathrooms, centred on an expansive games room measuring approximately 38 ft by 29 ft. Two further bedrooms could be reinstated within this space using partition walls, subject to the necessary consents.



On the lower-ground floor, an air-conditioned media room is joined by two cellar areas and a wine store. A detached gym with its own shower room stands within the grounds and could also lend itself to use as guest accommodation, a studio or private office, subject to permission.



Beautiful walled gardens surround the house on four sides. A broad lawn is framed by mature trees, deep planted borders and a rose garden, an unusually private setting for central London.



The house was acquired by the American publisher Malcolm Forbes in 1970 and remained his family's London home for four decades. Forbes restored the property, filled its rooms with his celebrated collection of Victorian art and entertained guests including royalty, American presidents and leading cultural figures. Elizabeth Taylor, a close friend of Forbes, was also a regular visitor.



Battersea Square's independent cafés, restaurants and shops are close by, while Battersea Bridge provides an easy connection to Chelsea and the King's Road. Battersea Park, Chelsea Harbour and the London Heliport are also within convenient reach. Nearby schools include Newton Prep, Thomas's Battersea, Eton House and Westminster School.