Anyone
who knows me well knows that one of my dreams is to own a chateau in France
(yes, I’ve always dreamt big). This is of course when my books are selling into
the trillions. I’ll buy a grand, dilapidated chateau and bring it back to life.
I’ll then be able to sit at my antique mahogany desk gazing across my parklands
to the lake and write my stories.
Although
I live in a modern house with modern furniture, I hanker to live in a heritage-listed
building filled with antiques. So, I’m loving researching my current WIP
which is set in a stately home in the UK. I haven’t yet picked which stately
home I will base my fictional Ravensdale Manor on, but I’m enjoying the
research and have discovered there are many stately homes for sale. So with a
spare couple of million pounds, you can buy your very own Downton Abbey.
These
are couple of my favourites:
Cod House, Jersey, £3.5m pounds
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| Picture source: fineandcountry.com |
This magnificent house dates from the 1800's. It is approached via a long
tree lined gated driveway, the house stands in approximately 1 1/2 acres of
landscaped grounds and has underground garaging for 6-8 cars! No problem about accommodating all your
friends. There are two separate 2-bedroom
cottages available for guests.
Clayton Priory, West Sussex, £3.4m
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| Picture source: savills.co.uk |
Clayton Priory is Listed Grade II and is an example of a classic Regency
Country House. The property is believed to date from 1820, designed by John
Biagio Rebecca for a Brighton merchant called Robert Podmore. The house instantly gained recognition for its
fine architectural design and was mentioned in the 1835 Horsfield edition of History
and Antiquities of the County of Sussex as "... an elegant and commodious
mansion on an elevated situation..."
Bletchingdon Park,
interest over £15m pounds
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| Picture source: saville.co.uk |
Bletchingdon Park is a Grade II listed Palladian
villa in an outstanding position and features parkland, woodland, a swimming
pool and lakes, so lots to explore. This classic Georgian House is situated in immaculate gardens
and includes a walled garden with summer house and tennis court all set
in about 126 acres. You only need to find a spare
Bletchingdon Park could be the perfect setting for my Billionaire Romance #3 story as it features a walled, secret garden which is pivotal to the story.
So
what do you prefer in a home, modern or historic? I'd love to hear.
Hey Jen. I adore *visiting* stately homes. When we lived in the UK we were members of the National Trust and we saw many, many houses in those two years. We particularly loved the kitchens!
ReplyDeleteBut I like the modern conveniences of a flushing toilet and running shower to ever want to live in one.... :-)
I love visiting stately homes too, Amy. Such amazing places. I too love my creature comforts!
DeleteI LOVE your research, Jen. I did a bit of my own research the other day and stumbled across this French chateau. Sigh. All yours for a cool 21,000,000 EUR.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.prestigeproperty.co.uk/property/168254/French-Chateau-Haute-Vienne-87-France/
As for me? What most dream about is a comprehensive view over the ocean. How nice would that be? :-)
Wow, Michelle. That place is amazing.
DeleteI have ocean glimpses from my office. A sweeping ocean view would be fantastic.
I love the research.
ReplyDeleteHmm, I like a combination of older (but not historic) homes and modern homes. I'm not a fan of the look an decor of super modern homes, but I do still like the modcons.
Isn't researching fun, Lyn. Unfortunately I can spend a little too much time doing the research and dreaming about living in these amazing places.
ReplyDeleteI think that's true for us all. Certainly the case for me.
DeleteHi Jennifer
ReplyDeleteOh I do love those homes I am not sure which I prefer probably a bit of both modern and old age as long as I don't have to keep these places clean I would be very happy :)
Have Fun
Helen
Yes, Helen. I think if we owned any of these piles, staff would be essential!!
ReplyDeleteI think Bletchingdon Park would suit me nicely as a holiday home (the staff would keep it fresh and clean for my occasional visits, of course).
ReplyDeleteResearch is a great excuse to daydream!
Yes, agree, Claire. Would certainly make a lovely holiday home. And yes, staff essential.
ReplyDeleteI have to be careful with research, it can elevate procrastination to a whole new level!