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Childhood home of Wind in the Willows author for sale in Berkshire
The childhood home of Wind in the Willows author, Kenneth Grahame, is for sale in Berkshire.
Originally built around 1600 as a hunting lodge on the edge of Windsor Great Park, The Mount boasts 12 bedrooms, five reception rooms, four bathrooms, and gardens and grounds spanning 3.5 acres.
The property does require modernising, but it has a rich history bursting with character. Kenneth was sent to The Mount by his father to live with his grandmother, following the death of his mother when he just four. According to his biographer, Peter Green, the surrounding Quarry Wood and River Thames are believed to have inspired the setting for Wind in the Willows.
Kenneth later returned to the area as an adult, living in Cookham Dean from 1906 to 1908. It was within these two years that Wind in the Willows was edited and published.
Approached from the south by an impressive driveway, the highlight of the property's ground floor is the stunning panelled drawing room with elegant fireplace and bay window. Elsewhere, there's a family snug with another feature fireplace, prominent gables, a bell tower and chimneys.
The second floor is currently laid out as a self-contained flat with four further bedrooms — the perfect place for guests.
Lying predominantly to the south and east of the house, the gardens are believed to have been originally laid out in the 1890s.
An elevated terrace with rose beds flank the principal façade, while a gravel pathway leads down to the stunning yew hedged topiary. Additional highlights include an Italianate sunken garden featuring a mature wisteria and ornamental pond. Look closely and you might just spot Mole, Ratty and Badger trying to help Mr. Toad.
'It is incredibly rare for such a beautiful house with a tapestry of rich history to come to market in one of the best locations in Berkshire,' says Paul Finnegan, director, Savills country department. 'With the house situated in the sought after village of Cookham Dean, this country home is perfect for those looking for an idyllic, yet accessible refuge from London, but with great access to the amenities that the city provides.
'It is the combination of countryside and proximity to London that is really sought after amongst our country house buyers who are still wanting to commute back into town.'
This property is currently on the market for £4,000,000 with Savills.
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