A converted mansion is the dream home for the majority of people, according to a poll by 'What House?'.

When the property magazine asked its readers which dwelling would top their wish list, converted mansions stole the show with 44% of the vote.

It appears that people love the idea of owning a building that is steeped in history, as such properties have often played significant role in British society over the centuries.

A converted mansion usually boasts a long line of previous residents, including royalty, dignitaries, literary icons and political figures.

"Living in a converted mansion house provides the unique opportunity to live in interesting and unusual apartments that embrace the building's existing external and internal architectural features," said Helen Moore, managing director at City and Country.

"It is the original features and unique aspects - such as the incredibly high ceilings or original wooden panelling found within these mansion houses that gives them a feeling of grandeur which people find attractive and want to be a part of."

A city penthouse was the next most popular choice with 38%, as people are conscious of the fact that these properties are considered to be one of the soundest investments.

For example, penthouse apartments in London have reached record highs and are continuing to rise at an accelerated rate. People wanting to buy an apartment at The Shard would have to fork out at least £30 million.

Not only do many people aspire to own one of these swanky pads, they also aspire to live in one.

Third on the list of dream properties was a zero carbon eco home, with 12% of the vote, while seaside villas, waterfront apartments and country cottages all received 2%.

"This poll shows that people still value character and history in their homes very highly, and like to own heritage properties," said Whathouse.co.uk assistant editor Laurna Robertson.

"It was no surprise to see city penthouses near the top of the poll and, as we are passionate about sustainability at whathouse.co.uk, I was delighted to see zero carbon eco homes make it into the top three beating other desirable property types."

With government commitment in the budget to zero carbon homes, those 12% of voters who desire an zero carbon eco home could get their dream by 2015 when these such properties are set to be standard.

James Mackenzie, head of Strutt & Parker's Country House Department believes: "Converted homes are in demand. An older house in new condition provides a perfect balance; full of character and cheap to run. Historic homes are what make the UK property market different from any other country in the world and it's not just the house; buyers are also interested in the immediate surroundings. A picturesque setting can really complete a property."