Historic Georgian Manor with Royal Pedigree Listed for £2.25 Million
A magnificent Grade II listed Georgian manor house, steeped in royal history and architectural grandeur, has entered the property market with an asking price of £2.25 million. Known as Uphall, this exceptional residence is situated in the picturesque Norfolk village of Hillington, nestled within five acres of meticulously maintained grounds that directly border the expansive Sandringham estate owned by King Charles.
A Property of Unparalleled Heritage and Elegance
Estate agents Sowerbys have described Uphall as being "imbued with heritage, elegance and quiet grandeur," perfectly capturing the essence of this 18th-century masterpiece. The property represents the pinnacle of English country living, offering a serene and refined environment deeply rooted in historical character. With its handsome red-brick façade, the manor house presents an imposing yet graceful presence in the Norfolk landscape.
The accommodation is exceptionally generous, spread across four substantial floors in the main building along with a separate coach house, providing approximately 8,000 square feet of luxurious living space. The interior configuration includes eleven bedrooms, six bathrooms, and six reception rooms, making it ideal for both large-scale formal entertaining and comfortable day-to-day family life.
Royal Connections and Historical Significance
Uphall boasts significant royal connections that add to its considerable allure. The property was formerly the home of Lady Ruth Fermoy, the late grandmother of Diana, Princess of Wales. Lady Fermoy served as a confidant and lady-in-waiting to Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, who herself stayed at Uphall during the 1970s while renovations were underway at Sandringham. This historical link to the royal family provides the property with a unique narrative that few other homes can claim.
The manor's location further enhances its royal associations, positioned directly opposite St Mary the Virgin church in Hillington, where the late Queen Elizabeth II regularly worshipped. The property sits just under three miles from Sandringham House, King Charles' Norfolk residence, which is itself a Grade II listed Georgian property set within a vast 20,000-acre estate containing hundreds of buildings.
Architectural Features and Modern Amenities
Behind its impressive exterior, Uphall reveals a series of beautifully proportioned rooms that seamlessly blend period charm with contemporary functionality. Elegant sash windows, intricate cornicing, original mantelpieces, and soaring ceilings speak eloquently to the property's Georgian origins, while careful restoration work has ensured the home meets modern lifestyle requirements.
Character and warmth are provided throughout by multiple open fireplaces and wood burners, while the kitchen area features an AGA oven, walk-in larder, and opens into a spacious breakfast and family room. Additional amenities include a charming snug, a series of cellar-level rooms, a comprehensive laundry facility, and a dedicated wine cellar. The upper-floor bedrooms offer "sweeping views across the gardens and rural landscape," providing a constant connection to the surrounding natural beauty.
A recently added extension houses a well-equipped fitness room, practical dog/boot room, and ample storage space, demonstrating how the property has been thoughtfully updated for contemporary living while preserving its historical integrity.
Extensive Grounds and Outdoor Facilities
The five-acre grounds surrounding Uphall are as impressive as the house itself, described as "well-stocked and varied, providing habitat for wildlife and endless inspiration for garden lovers." The formal gardens include a productive kitchen garden, while a rare Victorian swimming pond creates an idyllic setting for wild swimming and peaceful contemplation. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the full-size tennis court, and the property features numerous outbuildings including a stable block, wood stores, and cart lodges that present excellent conversion potential for additional accommodation or commercial use.
Location and Neighbouring Properties
While the new owner of Uphall will have King Charles as a near neighbour, they will enjoy considerable privacy within their own substantial estate. The property is situated nearly five miles from Marsh Farm, the new residence of Prince Andrew, which occupies a different section of the Royal estate. Uphall is offered with no onward chain, simplifying the purchasing process for prospective buyers.
The surrounding Sandringham estate contains numerous other notable properties, including the ten-bedroom Anmer Hall, which serves as the Norfolk home of the Prince and Princess of Wales. This concentration of royal residences in the area adds to the prestige and exclusivity of the location, making Uphall a truly exceptional opportunity for those seeking a property with genuine historical significance and royal connections.
