This Country Home Has The Ruins Of A 13th Century Chapel In Its Back Garden

By Martha Davies

1 year ago

Fancy a house with some history?


When it comes to country homes, you might be looking for sprawling grounds, glorious views and a few outbuildings – but what about the ruins of a 13th century chapel? This magnificent property has a remarkable story, and it’s on the market right now.

This Country Home Has The Ruins Of A 13th Century Chapel In Its Back Garden

Entrance to Grade II listed country home with cobblestone walls and a gravel driveway

Stroll up the lavender-bordered driveway of St Leonard’s Grange and you’ll be met with a dramatic sight: a huge, handsome home with an ancient chapel standing beside it. While the house itself is Grade II listed, the chapel is a Grade I listed monument which was once associated with the Cistercian monks of Beaulieu Abbey.

13th century chapel ruin surrounded by landscaped gardens

You’ll find this extraordinary property nestled in the New Forest, boasting views down to the Beaulieu River (where the current owners moor their yacht). The estate spans almost 11 acres of gardens and grounds which encompass a swimming pool, tennis court, two stables, a paddock and a garage accommodating ten cars. If you want to throw a party here, there’s more than enough space for guests – plus, the chapel ruins now serve as a pretty spectacular outdoor entertaining space. 

Outdoor swimming pool with brick pool house beyond

The house, meanwhile, provides five reception rooms, five bathrooms and five bedrooms, one of which is a capacious principal suite with its own dressing room. There is also a games room and a large attic space for storage.

Outside, you’ll spot a self-contained two-bedroom flat as well as a coach house with a studio, pool room and changing room. 

Living room with bay windows and garden views

This immaculately restored home really is a bucolic dream – you won’t find anything else like it.

Available through Blue Book Agency and Knight Frank for £8 million