A historically important landmark house created at the end of the 19th century by one of Britain’s foremost Arts & Crafts architects Sir Edwin Lutyens, with descending gardens and wooded slopes originally designed by Gertrude Jekyll.
Commissioned for a Master and Honorary Chaplain of Charterhouse School, the house was acquired by the current owners in 1975. At that time, it required substantial restoration, prompting an extensive refurbishment programme. Whilst much has been achieved, the property still offers an exciting opportunity for a new owner to further enhance and complete its transformation into a truly magnificent home.
The grounds extend to approximately three-quarters of an acre, offering a private and picturesque setting that complements the house’s historic significance.
Property Profile
This Grade II* listed residence provides extensive accommodation arranged over three principal floors, with additional half-levels that create the impression of up to six storeys. The interior is centred around a striking square staircase, which forms an impressive architectural focal point with its diagonally-set balusters, square newels and traces of original leaf-trail painting on the handrail.
There are a total of 16 rooms that allow for flexible use as either reception areas or bedrooms to suit individual requirements. Two rooms, however, stand out as principal reception spaces - the drawing room and dining room, both distinguished by their rare and impressive early Lutyens fireplaces.
The kitchen/breakfast room is located on the lower ground floor and retains an original Lutyensdesigned dresser, complemented by traditional quarry-tiled flooring. Adjoining the kitchen are a practical utility room and a workshop/gardener’s room, enhancing the functionality of the space.
The property features timber-framed leaded-light windows, complete with wooden mullions, set within attractive Flemish bond red brickwork and finished with a plain tiled roof.
Garden & Exterior
Red House is set within approximately three-quarters of an acre of gently sloping, declivous grounds. The gardens were originally designed by the renowned garden designer and horticulturalist Gertrude Jekyll, herself a former resident of Godalming.
To the front right of the property, there is a parking bay providing space for approximately four vehicles. The gardens feature a level lawned area, ideal for outdoor seating and enjoying south-westerly views across the town. Beyond this, a series of charming terraced herbaceous sections are connected by a pathway that gently descends through the grounds.
Adjacent to the kitchen is a well-positioned potting area complete with a greenhouse. A picturesque wildlife and fish pond adds to the garden’s appeal, while mature shrubs and trees throughout create a tranquil and established atmosphere. The house, as ever with Lutyens, fits the landscape perfectly.
Location
The Red House can found in an elevated position at the top of Frith Hill, one of Godalming’s most sought after locales opposite the world-renowned Charterhouse School.
Godalming’s picturesque High Street and the River Wey is within walking distance and provides a wide range of shops, bars and restaurants, along with a mainline station offering direct services to London Waterloo in approximately 45 minutes. Guildford, with its historic cobbled High Street, extensive shopping, cinemas and theatres, is roughly four miles to the north. The A3, linking to the M25 and London’s airports, is about two miles away
There is an excellent choice of schools in the area, catering for all ages in both the state and independent sectors, several within easy walking distance. Nearby, the recreation ground offers playing fields, tennis courts and a children’s play area, while the surrounding countryside is particularly scenic, with local beauty spots such as the National Trustowned Winkworth Arboretum and Hydons Ball close by. Golfers are well served too, with courses in Milford, Chiddingfold and Hurtmore, and the South Coast beaches are around 30 miles away.
Additional Information
Our client has advised the property has mains drainage, gas, electric and water.
