$13 Million Buckinghamshire Estate with Ties to British Film Icons Goes on Sale
Drummers Yard, a historic country estate in Buckinghamshire, is now up for sale with an asking price of £10 million (roughly $13 million). This stunning mansion has a rich legacy, once home to British cinematic icons Dirk Bogarde and Carry On producer Peter Rogers. Built in 1938 and designed by architect John Archibald Campbell, the estate masterfully blends the old-world charm of Arts and Crafts architecture with modern luxury, making it a coveted property in the UK real estate market.
Drummers Yard wasn’t always the glamorous estate it is today. Originally known as Birchens Spring, the property was designed for C. Rissik in the late 1930s by the British architect John Archibald Campbell. His distinctive Arts and Crafts-inspired designs combined traditional craftsmanship with modernist influences, drawing on elements from both Italian villas and Scottish castles.
In 1960, Dirk Bogarde, a renowned British actor famous for his roles in Doctor in the House and The Servant, purchased the property and gave it its current name, Drummers Yard. He owned the house for only two years, but his renovations revitalized the estate, transforming it into a residence fit for a star. Bogarde sold the property to his colleague Peter Rogers, who was best known for producing the Carry On film series, further cementing the house’s ties to British cinema.
Architectural and Historical Significance
The estate’s design by Campbell reflects a careful balance between aesthetic beauty and functionality. Its Grade II-listed status attests to its architectural significance. Each room in Drummers Yard was designed with large windows and garden-facing views, ensuring abundant natural light and a serene connection with the 12-acre grounds. Campbell, who worked extensively in Germany, brought a European sensibility to the property, blending elements from classical and modern styles.
Today, Drummers Yard remains a rare find, offering buyers not only a luxurious lifestyle but also a piece of British history. The house has been carefully preserved, retaining many of its original Arts and Crafts features, such as its brick arches and Cornish slate roof, while incorporating modern conveniences.
Modern-Day Luxury Meets Historical Charm
Though rich in history, Drummers Yard has been tastefully updated to meet the needs of modern buyers. Over the past few decades, the property has been transformed by award-winning architectural firm Tollgard Design, blending contemporary elements with its traditional roots. The main house, spanning 10,000 square feet, includes seven bedrooms and eight bathrooms.
A grand entrance hall, featuring a dramatic brick and stone arched ceiling, leads to a spacious sunroom, a circular dining room, and a state-of-the-art kitchen with Scandinavian-inspired design by Sola. Upstairs, the bedrooms offer privacy and luxury, with stunning views over the estate’s lush gardens.
The estate’s modern amenities include a private gym, complete with a sauna and steam room, as well as a tennis court and a separate two-bedroom guest cottage. These additions ensure that while the property is deeply connected to its past, it provides all the conveniences one would expect in a contemporary home.
The Appeal of Historic UK Estates
Drummers Yard is part of a long tradition of luxury British estates that offer more than just beautiful homes. The historical significance of owning a property with ties to figures like Dirk Bogarde and Peter Rogers adds immeasurable value for discerning buyers. The combination of heritage, luxury, and proximity to London makes this estate particularly appealing to those seeking both tranquility and convenience.
Drummers Yard is a rare find—an estate that combines architectural significance, historical connections, and modern luxury. Its past as a sanctuary for British cinema’s elite and its exquisite blend of Arts and Crafts design with modern features make it a jewel in the Buckinghamshire countryside.
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