James Brine
Director New Homes South East
West Sussex has always been a favourite of commuters, families and retirees thanks to its beautiful coastline, South Downs National Park and great links to London.
And with the launch of the new King Edward VII Estate development, the small town of Midhurst is now joining the likes of Worthing and Horsham as a top spot for those seeking a taste of countryside life.
King of the castle
New developments don’t often help create new property hot spots in the countryside. But then again, few are like the King Edward VII Estate. Not only will it provide high quality new homes and apartments, it’s also restoring the former King Edward VII Sanatorium.
Built in 1901, the original estate was designed to serve as a tuberculosis sanatorium and was described at its opening in 1906 as “one of the three finest buildings of the time”.
Delivered by specialist heritage and restoration developer City & Country, in partnership with CALA Homes and Millgate, the project is set amongst 165 acres of South Downs National Park. Within the original Grade II and II* listed buildings, there will be 162 apartments and homes, with a further 247 new properties surrounding the estate. The estate includes the restored sanatorium, an amazing Arts & Crafts-style chapel and the registered gardens - originally designed and planted by the highly-acclaimed horticulturalist Gertrude Jekyll.
Prices in the mansion start from £222,500 for a one bedroom apartment, to £1,250,000 for a three bedroom luxury apartment offering superb views across the South Downs. New detached homes surrounding the estate such as in Brackenwood are well suited for families offering four bedrooms as well as an on-site swimming pool and gym for the private use of residents. These are currently being built.
All homes at King Edward VII Estate have access to some of the original hospital communal areas, including a Residents Lounge, a Reading Room and on-site guest accommodation which will be available to rent by visitors.
James Brines, Associate at Strutt & Parker, says the homes will appeal to a wide range of buyers including London commuters, as well those from the more urban centres of Guildford and Haslemere.
Midhurst matters
This small market town, with a population of just 5,000, is probably best known for hosting the annual Veuve Cliquot Cup polo event at the nearby Cowdray Park. But despite its fairly low key reputation, there’s plenty to like about living in Midhurst. It’s no surprise that Country Life Magazine once voted it the second best place to live in the country.
The wide streets, historic buildings and choice of eateries give it a bustling but welcoming feel, especially in the summer when diners spill onto the streets and the trees and parks are in full bloom.
In the centre, there’s plenty to keep locals entertained with the Medieval Market Square, surrounded by historic Tudor buildings, the focal point of all activity. It’s full of boutique shopping, great antique stores and local cafes and restaurants.
Surrounding the town is the South Downs, which provide everything from lush woodlands to vast wetlands and heaths. Getting to them couldn’t be easier, with walks from the town centre taking in everything from historic churches to meandering rivers. There are even a few vineyards surrounding the town that can be visited.
One of the most popular attractions is Cowdray Park and its walled gardens. Cowdray House was almost totally destroyed by a fire in 1793. The remaining ruins are almost as impressive as the original building while the restored gatehouse and kitchens are worth a look. The Walled Garden, a new addition to the estate grounds, is a beautiful spot in the spring months.
And for those who enjoy fine dining, world-class restaurants and gastronomic pubs, there are many popular venues just a stone’s throw from Midhurst. Popular venues include The Duke of Cumberland, Lickfold Inn, Halfway Bridge, Noah’s Ark, The Welldiggers Arms and in Petersfield, just 10 miles away, is the Michelin-starred JSW restaurant.
Getting to and from Midhurst
Midhurst has a reputation for being a laidback, sleepy town, whilst still having access to London. The nearest train station is just over 8 miles away in Haslemere. From there, it’s 49 minutes to Waterloo, though trains are regular.
In the car, the A272 runs east to west. It connects the town with Petersfields and, eventually, Winchester around 50 minutes to the west, and Billinghurst to the east. North to south the A286 takes you to Haslemere or down to Chichester, which is 12 miles to the south.