Ickenham in outer west London was once the haunt of Tudor gentry.
Queen Elizabeth I watched a performance of Othello in the grounds of Harefield Place, a manor house that was later redeveloped by a Georgian nobleman and now offers 25 luxurious homes.
In the Thirties, the eight-and-a-half-acre estate was a maternity hospital, later becoming the HQ of the Blockbuster video rental giant.
The firm’s demise created an opportunity for the residential conversion and a painstaking two-year restoration project followed, reinstating Georgian and Edwardian elements and adding a new wing to the listed mansion.
The gated estate has a sweeping drive, lawns and a wellness centre with spa, gym, pool and tennis court.
Prices from £995,000 to £1,695,000. Call Beauchamp Estates (020 7499 7722).
