Old House, a centuries-old estate in Staplefield, West Sussex, has been listed for sale at approximately £3.95 million ($5.28 million). Formerly a residence tied to Princess Margaret and her husband, Lord Snowdon, the 5.5-acre property features a six-bedroom main residence with origins dating back to 1481. The estate is currently listed with the Blue Book Agency.
Royal Provenance and the Snowdon Legacy
The estate’s royal connection began in 1958 when designer Oliver Messel gifted the property to his nephew, Antony Armstrong-Jones, ahead of his marriage to Princess Margaret. According to Vanity Fair France, Lord Snowdon held a leasehold interest in the property, though the couple primarily resided at Kensington Palace. Following their 1978 divorce, Lord Snowdon moved into Old House full-time with his second wife, Lucy Lindsay-Hogg.
Did you know?
While the property is known for its royal ties, the freehold remains under the ownership of the National Trust, a detail confirmed by the listing brochure.
Architectural Evolution: From Minimalism to Cozy Living
Lord Snowdon’s tenure at Old House was marked by constant renovation. In a 2012 interview with The London Standard, he described his early approach as a period of “minimalism,” characterized by whitewashed walls, brick floors, and Arne Jacobsen chairs. During this era, the property served as a social hub for British high society, hosting guests such as Peter Sellers, Bianca Jagger, and Sir Evelyn de Rothschild.
By the 1970s, the aesthetic shifted toward a more traditional comfort. Lord Snowdon credited his second wife, Lucy, for the change, telling The London Standard that she “sobered up” the interiors, moving away from the 1960s influence of Japanese paper lampshades to create a more livable space.
Preserving the Past: Unique Design Details
Despite various renovations over the decades, some of Lord Snowdon’s original design choices remain. The upstairs bathroom features walls covered in original newspaper clippings, tabloid stories, and family photographs. This room serves as a time capsule of the estate’s history, remaining largely untouched for decades.
The main 4,200-square-foot residence retains period-appropriate rustic elements, including exposed wooden beams and brick fireplaces. The kitchen is equipped with a classic AGA cast-iron range, anchoring the home’s historic feel. Beyond the main house, the grounds include a two-bedroom stone cottage, a children’s playhouse, a study, and a tractor shed.
Market Context and Future Trends
The sale of Old House follows a series of private transactions. Lord Snowdon sold the property in a private deal in 2003, and the current owners acquired it two years later in a similar off-market arrangement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who currently owns the freehold to Old House?
The National Trust retains ownership of the freehold, according to the listing brochure.
What is the asking price for the estate?
The property is listed with the Blue Book Agency for £3.95 million, which is approximately $5.28 million.
How large is the Old House estate?
The estate spans 5.5 acres in rural Staplefield, West Sussex, and includes a 4,200-square-foot main house and a two-bedroom stone cottage.
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