2015 has been a year filled with incredible properties, and now that it has drawn to a close we have decided to look back at the most magnificent houses of the last twelve months. From country mansions to postcard cottages, there has been an abundance of beautiful homes.
Picking the top ten was difficult, and the property of the year caused several disagreements in Fine & Country HQ. Some of the final ten are only attainable by the super-rich – or perhaps a EuroMillions winner – while others are more affordable. All, though, would provide the perfect home.
Property of the year
Villa in Peymeinade, near Mougins, France
Steeped in history, and with famous visitors choosing this home as their preferred holiday escape, one could not want for more. Offering panoramic vistas and complete privacy, these 2 stone built villas, built on a prestigious estate dating back hundreds of years, have been carefully and loving restored and renovated, resulting in one of the most prestigious homes for sale in the South of France.
Runner-up Property of the Year
Located in the heart of the Cheshire countryside, this exclusive residence lies in its own private gardens and grounds with views over the lake and surrounding countryside.
Best of the rest
Standing high above the 12th fairway of Aloha Golf it is situated only minutes from Puerto Banus and has stunning views to the La Concha Mountain and the Mediterranean Sea. This beautifully designed villa is truly one of a kind and is one of the few Grade II listed buildings in Marbella.
Beautiful detached thatched cottage situated in the lovely village of Bredon with local shop, school and pub all within a few hundred yards of the garden gate.
Papillon Hall, Henley-in-Arden
A contemporary English “Chateau” set within the county of Warwickshire and strategically located for ready access to the motorway network and a number of historic towns.
A stunning and immaculate English country home presented in superb style and ultimate luxury, making this one of Nottinghamshire’s most premium and desirable homes. The highest attention has been given to every detail with unique fixtures and fittings, combined with a flair for design and decor.
An extraordinary opportunity to purchase what is considered to be the oldest property in Brookmans Park. There is speculation that the nursery rhyme, Little Miss Muffet was written at the house by a Dr Muffet (1553-1604), a famous entomologist in the late 16th century for his daughter Patience Muffet.
The Surgeon Rear Admirals House
The Surgeon Rear Admirals House retains its historic character, sitting proudly in the centre of a terrace with two wings including former staff quarters. Since it was constructed in 1796 the house has been home to and visited by a who’s who of British history, including Admiral Nelson, Duke of Wellington, Queen Victoria, Winston Churchill, King George V and Prince Charles.
A Grade II Listed former working watermill that is now a beautiful family home set in an idyllic position next to its own mill pond and stream. The working water wheel no longer operates the mill itself, but does now generate electricity that feeds into the national grid and provides an all year round income.
This outstanding and well-appointed luxury family home offers the latest technology and high-end fittings throughout, including a retracting walk-on cellar glass door and cinema room. Set back from the village green behind twin gates are in 1.3 acres of mature landscaped grounds which includes a well-tended historical maze.
A stunning individual, five bedroom barn conversion boasting a Grade II listed dovecote and a paddock, tucked away within the exclusive Axwell Hall.
Once home to Hugh Grant, this Mayfair penthouse is presented in immaculate condition with a direct entry lift, 3 en suites bedrooms, and a panoramic roof terrace complete with hot tub and superb views.
From the swimming pool, garden and all of the castle, there are uninterrupted ocean views, including the whole bay of Cascais. The third floor has a unique room with a magnificent terrace with coastline and sea views stretching from Lisbon to Cascais. Above the top floor is a smaller terrace accessed by a circular staircase hugging the turret of the castle.
In the village of North Lopham sits this lovely timber framed thatched cottage. It is just across the road from the country pub The Kings Head, which is popular with locals. This property is set back from the main road through the village, providing it with the peace and quiet of the countryside and excellent privacy.
A unique and significant opportunity has arisen to acquire a delightful portion of the historic Thurland Castle at Tunstall, close to Kirkby Lonsdale in the picturesque Lune Valley. Dating back to 1402 when Sir Thomas Tunstall was given right to fortify this medieval manor house, the castle has been the subject of many historically significant periods, perhaps most notable when under siege from Cromwell in the mid-1600’s. Thurland Castle has since been restored, destroyed by a terrible fire and restored once again to this impressive property that we see today.
Which was your favourite property of 2015?
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