A charming home on Dukes Lane in Kensington has come to the market for only the second time in over fifty years.

Dating back to 1760, the four-bedroom terraced house, just a stone’s throw from Kensington Palace, is believed to have once been owned by the Royal Family and was formerly used as servants’ quarters.

According to records dated 1881, nine people lived in the house with their occupations listed as coachman, dressmaker, groom, laundress, painter, butler, farrier, scholar and widow.

When it was first built the house was the last in a row of servant accommodation and was situated on the western edge of Kensington, surrounded by orchards and pastures. The former owners kept livestock on the neighbouring heathland that stretched to the then small hamlet of Shepherds Bush.  Cows were led to the rear of the property for milking and an unusual right of way remains in the deeds.  

The current owners purchased the house in 1994 and undertook a full restoration and sympathetic refurbishment, retaining many original features.  The house revealed plenty of history, including a 500 gallon vaulted chamber in which previous owners stored their fresh water in the days of the last mini ice-age when even the Thames froze over.  

Local folklore describes the former owner of the house as a Prussian princess and there was a story of jewels hidden deep within the house. During restoration, plenty of hidden features were also found which are thought to have mystical significance, including a secret cavity which contained only an ancient coal shovel and a grand set of ornamental gates buried under the garden.

Rupert Wiggin, Partner at Strutt & Parker Kensington, said: “It is incredibly rare for a house with such depth of history and character to come to the market. This charming home offers a unique opportunity to acquire a very special slice of British royal history - with a good dollop of mystical intrigue thrown in for good measure.”

8, Dukes Lane comprises 1,477 sq ft for living space including an impressive lower ground floor kitchen and breakfast room, with doors opening onto the south-facing garden. In addition, there is a south facing terrace which is accessed from the dining room. The house is priced at £3.25 million through Strutt & Parker’s Kensington office. Please call 020 7938 3666.