A historic country compound with certain royal ties has hit the market.
Located in the wooded English village of Biddenden, a former iron industry town, this quaint mansion boasts both opulence and rustic charm — and quite the story.
The 67-plus-acre property dates to 1419 and was once the royal residence of Prajadhipok, or Rama VII, the last absolute king of Siam (now Thailand).
Will Peppitt of Savills holds the listing, known as Vane Court, which is seeking just over $7 million.
Rama VII reigned from 1925 to 1935, a turbulent, revolutionary time for the nation, and died in England, in exile, in 1941 at the age of 47.
The late former king and his queen, Rambai Barni, took up residence at the listing in 1937, two years after his abdication, and quickly adjusted to life in the village.
It is believed Prajadhipok slept in the attic (now referred to as the King’s Bedroom) due to a Siamese custom that no other head in the home could be higher than his.
Today, the property brags abundant period details, including an entrance hall with an original oak staircase — as well as modern amenities including a heated, hedge-enclosed swimming pool and tennis courts.
Inside, beneath mainly tiled roofs, there are (depending on how the layout is utilized) six to seven bedrooms, two with ensuite baths, an inglenook-equipped dining room, an oak-framed gym, multiple fireplaces and a American walnut-outfitted kitchen with granite worktops and an oil-fired Aga.
An aerial view of the compound. Savills
The land measures in at about 67 acres. Savills
The property has a heated pool. Savills
The grounds are home to a water garden. Savills
The residence is historically protected. Savills
There are six to seven bedrooms depending on the chosen layout. Savills
Period details abound. Savills
The spacious kitchen. Savills
There are numerous fireplaces throughout. Savills
Rama VII was the seventh monarch of Siam under the House of Chakri. He was the last absolute monarch and the first constitutional monarch of the nation. Pictures From History/Universal Images Group via Getty Images
A portrait of Prajadhipok featured on Thai money. Getty Images/iStockphotoOutside is an array of formal gardens, including a sunken rose garden and the water garden, which includes what’s known as the King’s Pond.
In addition to the main house, the property also has two concrete-framed barns, which currently have “planning consent” to be converted into residences as a four-bedroom and a three-bedroom.
There’s also “ample parking,” including an open-fronted four-bay garage and a car port.
