Princess Margaret's 'bohemian refuge' hits the market for £3.95 million

The Old House, a historic 15th-century residence in Staplefield, West Sussex, is on the market for the first time, listed at 3.95 million pounds. This property was famously the country retreat of Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II, and her husband, photographer Antony Armstrong-Jones, Lord Snowdon, during the 1960s.

Known as a bohemian haven, the house hosted a glittering array of guests, including artists, aristocrats, and celebrities such as Peter Sellers, Bianca Jagger, Dame Margot Fonteyn, and Edna O’Brien. These weekend gatherings, filled with cocktails and parties, became a coveted social event in the UK and even inspired scenes in the third season of the television series "The Crown."

Originally a gift from Lord Snowdon's uncle, the artist and designer Oliver Messel, the house was in a state of disrepair when Snowdon took ownership. He undertook a significant restoration, transforming the Tudor and Georgian-style building into a stylish escape from London's official life. Despite its age, the residence retains many of its distinctive features. One notable element is a bathroom entirely covered in newspaper clippings, royal news, and celebrity articles, a personal touch from Snowdon that remains intact.

The property also boasts original architectural details, including historic fireplaces, exposed wooden beams, and Georgian paneling. The kitchen is equipped with a traditional Aga oven, and the main living areas include a double reception room overlooking the park and spacious terraces. The house's connection to the royal family began shortly before Margaret and Snowdon's 1958 wedding.