One of West Berkshire’s most historical estates, Benham has been listed with a £26 million (US $33.5 million). This 27,620-square-foot mansion on a stunning 130-acre park near Newbury is noted as a historic Grade II* residence. About 60 miles from London, Benham Park is on the Berkshire Downs, an area classified as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a Conservation Area.
Benham
Created by 18th century royal landscape designer, Lancelot “Capability” Brown, the estate was first documented in 956, when it was granted to a Saxon Warlord named Aelsige by King Eadwig, with many royal affiliations after.
The current house was designed and built between 1772 and 1775 by Henry Holland, an architect to the English nobility.
Benham
Its interior features many of the original features, including carved bath stone, a Portland stone cantilevered staircase, and a wine cellar that cools by a process of evaporation.
Cascading terraced gardens by renowned landscape gardener, William Andrews Nesfield, surround the mansion. To the south, there is a 10-acre lake and two additional properties, a lodge and a mill house overlooking the lake, are on the grounds.
Benham
The current owner, who is a property developer, acquired two permits to restore the mansion and to add a wellness center, which would include the additions of a spa, 100 guest rooms, and fine dining. The listing is held by Louise Harrison of Savills.
