18th-Century U.K. Manor House Valued at $4 Million Attracts Numerous Artists
The Lodge, a charming converted farm building, and Leacon Hall, a Grade II* listed Queen Anne estate in Kent, are two unique dwellings that offer a blend of history and modern comfort.
Leacon Hall, built in 1708 by Thomas Kenneth Hodges, is a testament to the English Baroque style of the Queen Anne reign (1702–1714). The house, famed for its near-original 18th-century architecture and historic character, has been subtly modernized over the years to provide modern comfort without losing its original period details.
Inside, Leacon Hall boasts soaring ceilings, original wood floors, heavy paneled doors, fireplaces, and an arched reception hall with a fresco. The house retains its Queen Anne panelling, working fireplaces, sash windows, and period wood flooring, all preserved largely intact thanks to Lady Millais' efforts during World War II to prevent wartime damage.
Upstairs, there are eight bedrooms across two floors, each with its own period details. Leacon Hall's historical significance also touches on social and cultural history. While there is no direct mention of smuggling in the available sources, Queen Anne estates in Kent commonly had associations with smuggling activities in the 18th century due to the region’s coastline. The house hosted literary salons and notable guests, including the pre-Raphaelite painter Sir John Everett Millais and author Joseph Conrad, emphasizing its role as a cultural hub.
The property also includes two separate dwellings: The Oast and The Lodge. The Oast features a roundel sitting room and three bedrooms, while The Lodge offers a cosy retreat with underfloor heating and tons of charm.
Moving across the pond, The Indigo at Vie L'Ven is a featured oceanfront residence in Indigo Bay, Sint Maarten. This turnkey property, priced at $2,724,800 USD, boasts over 12 acres of landscaped gardens and grounds, designed in part by Marian Boswall. Inside, the property offers spacious living areas and three bedrooms. Outside, guests can enjoy the heated pool with a pool house and the property's stunning ocean views.
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Both Leacon Hall and The Indigo at Vie L'Ven are currently run as successful vacation rentals, offering guests a chance to experience history and luxury. Whether you're looking for a grand estate in the heart of England or a tropical retreat in the Caribbean, these properties offer a unique blend of history, luxury, and comfort.
Leacon Hall, with its fashion-and-beauty of intricate 18th-century architecture and period details, offers a captivating lifestyle that harmonizes history and modern comfort. Meanwhile, The Indigo at Vie L'Ven, situated in Sint Maarten, seamlessly integrates home-and-garden elegance with a tropical vacation experience.
