Coming soon to Ascot: Westbrook House created by Millgate

by Viv United Kingdom

Earlier this year (May 2013) WealthInsight, the London based global wealth consultancy, analysed the most affluent small towns and villages in the UK.

Dominating the top 10 were small towns and villages (with less than 30,000 people) located in the South East with the charming Berkshire town of Ascot, home to up to 300 millionaires, completing the hot list.

  • Ascot named top 10 most affluent small town in UK (WealthInsight 2013)
  •  New luxury apartment development by Millgate coming soon to Ascot
  • Apartments already selling off-plan reflecting high buyer interest

Ascot is a delightfully English spot synonymous with race goers, the Queen, top hats and tails.  But behind this bravado of champagne and high society lies a very civilised and genteel town. The shopping centre consists of rows of small exclusive retailers and a host of eateries. A farmers’ market is held on the third Sunday of the month where locally produced products can be purchased.

Situated only 7 miles from Heathrow international airport and affording fabulous motorway links to the rest of the country and direct rail access to Central London in 30 minutes, makes it easy for Captains of Industry to be located in Ascot. Sporting options are top dollar with championship golf courses at Wentworth, horse racing at Ascot and polo at Smiths Lawn in the Great Park or the Royal Berkshire Polo Club.  If the water is an attraction then there is boating and sailing on the Thames with plenty of places to park up your gin palace.

For those looking for a pied a terre close to the heart of Ascot then look no further.  Millgate, the award-winning luxury homes developer is soon to open the perfect solution – 14 luxury apartments with their own underground parking and lifts will be available later this year.

Jonathan Cranley, Sales and Marketing Director at Millgate comments:

“We launched a similar development in Ascot, Brockenhurst, in 2011this was the first development of its type in the area and the reaction from prospective buyers was remarkable. We anticipate that Westbrook House will do the same.  In fact two apartments have already been secured off plan to local residents who love living in the area and are downsizing.

“Brockenhurst attracted buyers who wanted the ease of an apartment rather than a house, some were retreating from London to the country whilst others wanted lock up and leave apartments that are very secure enabling them to come and go as they please.”

The new apartments at Westbrook House are situated on the site where Rita Heyworth once owned a house. With views towards the race course, these apartments are fabulous for horse lovers and the penthouse apartments boast views of the race track making tremendous spots for entertaining before or after the races.

Edwards and Elliott estate agency in Ascot sold the first development, Brockenhurst for Millgate and are looking forward to the launch of Westbrook House.  Richard Cracknell, Director for Edwards and Elliott said:

“The whole concept for Brockenhurst was based around a particular buyer group; empty nester’s, who are generally moving from large houses and are looking for a very high quality home that is secure, simple to maintain, easy to ‘lock up and leave’ with spacious rooms, outside space, garaging for their cars and plenty of storage.

Brockenhurst House really ‘hit the spot’ and took the concept a stage further by providing an astonishing entrance which created an immediate first impression of space, luxury and opulence, similar to a top hotel.“

Cracknell goes on to say:

“Millgate’s latest development, Westbrook House, takes the concept to new heights with an imposing Queen Ann style building situated directly opposite the world famous Ascot Race Course which incorporates the principal features of their earlier development; and then some!  The early response to Westbrook House has been quite exceptional with scores of enquiries and already two reservations ‘off plan’.

Commenting on the Ascot property market Mr Cracknell said:

“The market in this area has been a roller coaster this year and different sectors have performed in different ways. The year started with increased activity from buyers and sellers but there were still problems with obtaining competitive finance and a general lack of commitment. The long promised ‘recovery’ just did not seem to be happening.  At the same time, the lettings market was incredibly busy with stock levels reducing rapidly.

“Then, in September, things began to change. The letting market became quieter and rental values stopped escalating. Sales on the other hand have become incredibly active and, with reduced stock levels prices are poised to start growing.”

The entrance to Westbrook House has been designed to be very grand. There is a lift to all floors, secure basement car parking and storage. Each apartment will be finished to an exceptionally high standard in a variety of sizes and styles. With a choice of two and three bedroomsfrom 1,380 sq ft to over 3,000 sq ft, the apartments at Westbrook House are designed with large terraces / balconies, bespoke luxury kitchens and bathrooms, perfect pads for indulgent living.

For further information please contact Millgate on 0118 934 8075 or visit www.millgatehomes.co.uk or to contact the sole agents, Edwards & Elliott westbrook@edwardsandelliott.co.uk or call on 01344 876363.

Opening imminently: Three luxury Millgate homes located in the golfers paradise of Sunninghill

by Viv United Kingdom

Behind the striking blue hoarding at Holland Place in Sunninghill, Berkshire lies award-winning house builder, Millgate’s newest creation. 

Three brand new luxury detached country mansions, guaranteed to take your breath away, can be found less than a mile from desirable Sunninghill in the heart of the Home County commuter belt just 28miles west of London.

Opening the impeccable Show Home doors for the first time on Sunday November 17th 2013,buyers will be captivated by the superb build quality synonymous with a Millgate home which blends seamlessly with inspirational interior design by the renowned Alexander James Interiors.

Julian de la Poer Beresford, Regional Director for appointed selling agents, Hamptons International in Sunninghill comments:

“Combining the depth of knowledge from two companies that are the very top of their game makes for an exceptional work of art.  At Hamptons International we have had the good fortune of selling Millgate houses previously and it is always a pleasure and never a chore.”

The Show Home, elegantly named Evesley House, is one in a collection of three magnificent, privately gated English country homes. This classically styled six bedroom home set within exquisite mature grounds is a testament to the highest quality of vision, design and unparalleled craftsmanship.

As well as being a popular choice for families, the Sunninghill area is also a haven for keen golfers. Within 4 miles of Holland Place there are six golf courses alone! 

·         The highly respected Sunningdale Golf Club has hosted a number of major competitions over the years such as the Mens European Open, the Women’s British Open and several qualifying rounds.

·         Swinley Forest Golf Club is exclusive and totally eccentric. This charming club has no captain and despite being in existence for nearly 100 years it has no history except in it member’s heads as score cards have only recently been printed for the course! 

·         Founded in 1928, The Berkshire Golf Club is home to two Herbert Fowler designed courses, both of which are widely regarded as amongst the best in the British Isles. The Berkshire is a traditional Members’ Club which welcomes visiting golfers all year round to enjoy the beauty of its pine and heather lined courses, and to face the subtle challenges of Fowler’s superb course design.

·         Windlesham Golf Club is a par 72, championship parkland golf course with two exciting loops of 9-holes that will test every club in your bag. Featuring gentle slopes and streams, every aspect of this magnificent course is designed to excite the eye and the mind.

·         Pennyhill Park has a beautiful 9-hole golf course that has welcomed some of the very best Major-winning players in the world including the late, great Seve Ballesteros and the brilliant Vijay Singh.

·         And lastly but certainly not least the infamous Wentworth Golf Club.  One of the world’s finest golf and country clubs with the famed castellated Clubhouse, three championship courses, a Tennis & Health Club, active social calendar and dining inspired by The Ivy and Le Caprice.

Commenting on the area Jonathan Cranley, Sales and Marketing Director for Millgate said:

“Golf clubs are a huge draw for people to move to an area and not always for the golf –often the associated sports such as tennis and swimming that are available. Many clubs these days offer social memberships – for just that – somewhere to find new friends in a beautiful environment.

“Saying that I suspect that many of the clients who visit Holland Place in Sunninghill will be asking about golf in the area; it is a popular query with most buyers!”

Guide price for the houses on Holland Place are from £3,900,000 for more information contact Millgate on 0118 934 3344 or visit www.millgatehomes.co.uk.   

Suburban Super-prime Properties – Fit for a King

by Viv United Kingdom
  •  House prices in London have grown by 8.1 per cent year on year
  • Opulence is in and shabby chic out
  •  Wentworth plot sizes protected by covenants

With property prices in London continuing to grow, more and more people are considering their options to retreat to the country.  London house prices soared by 8.1 per cent in a year to record highs, official figures revealed in August and many are finding London property prices unacceptable.  Another report on the London property market delivered by CBRE, providers of global commercial real estate services, announced that annual growth in prime central London has reached 9.6 per cent.  Undoubtedly it depends where you draw the line for central London but either way these are hugely significant increases.

Areas of upmarket Surrey have been seeing a rise in the number of buyers considering the move to the country as a knock on effect.   Barton Wyatt, the leading estate agency in Virginia Water, which sits on the North Surrey/South Berkshire border, has seen a 20 per cent rise in applicants with London postcodes over the past 12 months.

Estate agents such as Barton Wyatt are noticing an influx of families who are loath to purchase an overpriced house in central London when they can opt for country style living with an acre of land.  Savvy developers in up-market Surrey have jumped on this band wagon and have been buying up tired, older-style houses in their droves, with the aim of knocking them down and replacing them with luxury modern mansions.  And these homes are teeming with all the luxury mod cons that you might expect from 21st century living.

“Opulence is definitely in and shabby chic out,” according to James Wyatt, Partner of Barton Wyatt. “Our mid 40’s client base are international jetsetters and they recognise the quality of 5* living in Manhattan, Hong Kong and Dubai.  Quite rightly they want the same level of quality in their homes.  Developers build houses fit for kings in Wentworth, as it is not unknown for royalty to be living side by side with the rest of us.”

With house prices in Surrey more reasonable than in central London, it makes complete sense for these buyers to consider their options in the Home Counties.

Newly built mansions on Wentworth come in varying shapes and sizes.  But one thing is guaranteed in this luxury slice of Surrey.  The size of the plots are cast in stone – in-fills are not allowed in Wentworth due to a covenant on the land, which means there is no overcrowding and your neighbours will never be able to peer over the fence.  Space and seclusion do come at a cost and the price tags on some of these new build homes can be eye-watering.

Hill House has just come to the market at £11,000,000.  This house, according to Barton Wyatt, is likely to be snapped up by a Russian or Khazak, who are very partial to this area, as Wentworth offers privacy in bundles.  This 5 bedroom house (all with en-suites) also has excellent staff accommodation.  The house has been created with the most incredible basement, which includes an indoor pool complex with steam room, sauna, Jacuzzi, changing and shower rooms, gymnasium and fabulous entertainment room.  The house sits in a plot of 1.25 acres and has spacious garaging for three cars.

Hill House would be a dream home for a keen golfer.  The house butts up to the East Course on Wentworth and has been designed with a golf buggy gate which leads straight out onto this highly acclaimed course, which was designed by Harry Colt.

For buyers on a tighter budget James Wyatt suggests Somerset House, at just £6,495,000.  Again opulence is in abundance in this newly built home.  Set over 4 floors the accommodation is vast (9500 sq ft) and this house would suit someone who loves to entertain.

Surrey has, in the main, very strict planning regulations so developers are often loath to look at greenfield sites, which invariably take longer to gain planning permission for, often at a greater cost.  Knocking a property down and regenerating it has become the norm in a handful of Surrey areas.   In Kingswood and St Georges Hill this rebirth of homes has become a blight on the leafy roads: reputedly St Georges Hill had 20 building sites and Kingswood had over 30 just last year.  Construction lorries, vans and workers’ vehicles clog up the small roads, which were not designed to take this load of traffic.

James Wyatt comments:

“It is a modern day affliction sadly.  Thankfully in Wentworth we have not seen the high numbers of rebuilds that St Georges Hill or Kingswood have been subjected too.  And of course in Wentworth the plots are really substantial, so there is little need for work vehicles to be parked outside these sites.  But this is modern day living and it will continue to occur.  The trick is to be nice to your neighbours.  It takes little time every week to check that the neighbours are happy and to pay for their windows to be cleaned occasionally!”

For more information on Hill House, Somerset House or construction in Wentworth call Barton Wyatt on 01344 843000 or visit www.bartonwyatt.co.uk.

Erase & Replace grips North Surrey netting savvy developers millions

by Viv United Kingdom

Savills, in their Prime Central London report Autumn 2013, state that this sector of the UK residential market has few real competitors with Lucian Cook, Director Residential Research commenting that “the closest comparison in terms of value and the ability to attract international wealth are the private estates in the Home Counties – St. George’s Hill and Wentworth Estate being the best examples.”

  •  Wentworth & St George’s Hill only places keeping up with London property boost
  • Savvy developers buy plots for up to £10 million and sell rebuilt homes for £30 million
  • Super wealthy looking outside London as prime mansions hard to find in London

The identification of these exclusive areas of North Surrey is off little surprise to James Wyatt, Partner of leading estate agency Barton Wyatt, who has been working on the Wentworth Estate for over 25 years. James says,

“Wentworth and St George’s Hill attract a different crowd to most of Surrey and indeed the Home Counties.  I am not saying that there are not pockets of wealth outside these two enclaves but these are on a different scale with thousands of highly successful businesspeople, politicians, diplomats, celebrities and even royalty choosing to live upon these golden acres.”

Both the Wentworth Estate and St George’s Hill private estates were created in the early 1900’s. Brain child of local builder, W.G. Tarrant who started building the 964 acre on St George’s Hill in 1912 and the 1750 acres of Wentworth Estate began building in 1922.

Both estates are protected to this day by covenants and their own Acts of Parliament, with Wentworth’s covenants preventing developers creating infills with each plot remaining as a single plot thus increasing their allure to many celebrities and high wealth individuals seeking space and privacy. The leafy, tree-lined private roads shield dozens of gated homes from public view.

Over the last decade it has become increasingly fashionable to “erase & replace”, purchasing a plot, knocking down the old Tarrant home and rebuilding in the form of a modern mansion.

Indeed James and his team at Barton Wyatt have seen a flurry of savvy developers buying plots on both Wentworth and St George’s at around the £10 million mark with the intention of creating super mansions that would not look out of place in Beverley Hills, with price tags hitting the £30 million mark.

James Wyatt comments:

“With the covenants still in place allowing only one property per plot, developers have to think of another way to maximise their returns. They cannot simply purchase a prime plot, sub-divide it and build 4 or 5 family homes on the same site.

“Whilst of ample size when they were first built in the early 1900’s, demand, especially from wealthy overseas buyers, for super-sized, mega mansions of 20,000 sq ft with all the mod cons, has meant that the existing Tarrant designed homes are no longer fit for purpose. These seemingly ‘average’ homes can be purchased at a relatively affordable level with the developers making their millions from the sale of the brand new homes which replace them.”

In fact London estate agents are finding a growing shortage of available super homes in prime central London resulting in millionaires looking further afield for a suitable home. Barton Wyatt has seen a 20% increase in buyers coming from Central London over the last year alone.

For more information about Erase & Replace in North Surrey or details on purchasing a super mansion contact Barton Wyatt on 01344 843 000 or visit www.bartonwyatt.co.uk.

Star pupil: Luxury house builder Millgate renovates Wargrave Pre School

by Viv United Kingdom

When Penny Simmons left city life in London and headed west to Wargrave in Berkshire, she had no idea of the impact that she and a few like-minded folk could have on a quaint English Village.

Penny moved from London to Wargrave 4 years ago and before long she had two small children who were filling her time.  She enrolled the boys into Wargrave Pre School and was happy with the loving environment that this tiny little community school could offer her children.

However, Penny was very conscious of the lack of funds that this school had and before long she was signed up to the PTA and fundraising like mad.  The school needed a huge overhaul and it would have taken this small group of local parents years to accomplish what they felt the children needed.

At this time Millgate, the Berkshire-based award-winning house builder, was also busy in Wargrave, erecting a very beautiful small development on Victoria Road – just across from where Mrs Simmons lived.  Penny was very impressed by the quality of the building work and that the developers seemed to really care about how they integrated themselves during the build, creating as little disruption to the local community at possible.

This led Penny to the conclusion that Millgate might be exactly the right local company to help her son’s school with the renovation works.

David Simpson, Managing Director at Millgate, was delighted to be asked to help with such a wonderful cause.  He assigned Kyle Burgess Millgate’s Quantity Surveyor to the project and before long a plan was in place.

Due to the hard work already undertaken by the supporters of Wargrave Pre School, a fund of £5,000 was already in place to start the renovations.  The council generously contributed a further £5,000 in the form of new carpets, flooring and external fixtures and fittings, they also kindly gave the school a small piece of land to increase the playground size.  With the donation of a further £14,500 worth of time and goods from Millgate and their contractors/suppliers this has meant a world of difference to the school development.

Commenting on the renovations, Penny Simmons says,

“The difference in the school before to after is like night and day. The school was previously adequate but the building was tired, dull and oppressive. There was a slightly unpleasant damp smell as you walked in and I always felt rather gloomy in there – I can’t imagine how the staff kept the children so cheerful.

“Now however it is like walking into a happy, cheerful, sunshine room.   The staff appear to be positively beaming and full of renewed energy.  This renovation is going to attract more people to use the local school and not feel the need to pay for more expensive Montessori type nurseries locally.  This makeover has put the life blood back into this community school.”

The work that has been carried out by this this amazingly committed team from Millgate has included a great deal of restoration work for the internal roof, walls and partitions.  The floor donated by the council was fitted by Millgate and they installed a bright and airy new kitchen area, new bathroom facilities throughout and created a quiet area, a den and a changing area internally to allow different activities to happen simultaneously throughout the school day.  With new electric and plumbing Wargrave Pre School is now a safer, cleaner and happier place to be.

Outside in the playground Millgate have constructed a new sand pit and a pagoda which has given the children plenty of options for enjoying their break times.

Kyle Burgess, Quantity Surveyor from Millgate comments,

“As much as my team and I love building luxury new homes, this project has been such an incredible assignment.  The support of the local community, the staff and the never-ending enthusiasm of the schools’ PTA has made this a superb project to work on.

“This project would not have been possible without the bigheartedness of some of Millgate’s suppliers and contractors.  Their enthusiasm to help on this project made it all possible.  It has been a team effort from so many people, their generosity has been overwhelming.

 “I genuinely feel that we have made a difference to lives of the staff and children at Wargrave Pre School and I hope for many years to come that children will still be using and enjoying the fruits of our labour.”

For more information on the project please contact Millgate on 01189 343 344 or visit www.millgatehomes.co.uk. To talk to Penny Simmonds contact her on chair@wargravepreschool.com or visit their brand new website on www.wargravepreschool.com.

Open all hours: Award-winning Surrey estate agent employs 24/7 telephone response service

by Viv United Kingdom

A record number of overseas clients has driven award winning Surrey estate agent, Barton Wyatt, to invest in a new state-of-the-art, 24 hour telephone response service.

Already to date in 2013, Barton Wyatt, located in affluent Virginia Water, Surrey, has seen a 15% increase in the number of clients based overseas looking to buy and rent property in the area, a record for the family-run estate agency boasting over 200 years’ experience.

Despite the popularity of email, social media and other forms of modern communication, James Wyatt, Partner of Barton Wyatt felt that it was important that his clients were able to speak to a real person at any time of the day or night. He explains,

“Here at Barton Wyatt we handle property sales and rentals for clients from all around the world. From the US to Russia, Kazakhstan and Malaysia, it’s not just people looking to move to the area, we also work with dozens of landlords posted or living overseas who need to keep in touch regards their properties.

“When you are living in a different time zone to the UK, it is easy to forget that not everyone is working to the same time agenda.  This led us think that the very best service possible to our clients would be to use a telephone service which operates 24/7, relieving any frustration that clients might get from not being able to speak to one of our team during normal office hours.”

The partner agency that Barton Wyatt is using, Moneypenny, is based in Wexham in the UK in the day and in New Zealand during the night.  Moneypenny send fully trained staff out to New Zealand on a three to six month rotation ensuring that the customer service level is of the same high standard whatever the time of day or night.

MrSouth, a landlord from Singaporewho appoints Barton Wyatt to manage his properties, comments,

“It is just another thoughtful level of service that I have come to enjoy from the team at Barton Wyatt.  They strive to always be one step ahead and this is yet another example as to why Barton Wyatt stands head and shoulders above the competition.”

For further information about Barton Wyatt call +44 1344 843 000 24/7 or visit www.bartonwyatt.co.uk.

What price experience? Multi award-winning Surrey estate agency Barton Wyatt boasts over 200 years

by Viv United Kingdom
  • The team at Barton Wyatt boasts 206 years combined estate agency experience
  • Using an experienced estate agent could add an extra 12% to the value of your house sale
  • Barton Wyatt has been awarded over 10 national property accolades

Tot up the amount of estate agency experience at award winning Barton Wyatt and you reach a staggering 206 years.  This exclusive family-run agency is located in the heart of Virginia Water in Surrey with a reputation as elongated as its experience.

Casting our minds back 200 years ago it would have been the 1800s when life was hard and buying and selling houses a pastime only for the rich.  1807 saw British parliament abolish the slave trade, the first railway passenger service begin in England and London´s Pall Mall become the first street to be lit by gaslight.

Just a few years prior to this, in 1797, William Blake wrote the poem “The Price of Experience”.  His bleak outlook on life has thankfully been left in the dark ages and in today’s modern world we can regularly rejoice in the tents of prosperity.

But what price experience when it comes to selling your home?

According to Bennie Waller, professor of finance and real estate at Longwood University in Virginia, USA you should “use an established veteran agent” for the best outcome. His study examined 10,065 real-estate listings with the findings revealing that if you use a veteran (estate) agent with over 10 years’ experience in property sales then you should achieve 12% more for your home than if you use a rookie.

James Wyatt, partner of Barton Wyatt comments,

“Success comes with experience and here at Barton Wyatt we have buckets of it!  My joint partner (and dear brother) Rupert and I have over 50 years’ experience in house sales and rentals with our dedicated team making up the other 150 plus years.  They are incredibly knowledgeable about our local area, our properties, how to market a home and help our clients achieve the maximum potential for their house sale.”

Barton Wyatt have been recognised for their successes time and time again by winning 10 nationally recognised estate agency awards with James Wyatt in situ as Chairman for the Surrey branch of the NAEA (National Association of Estate Agents). His wealth of knowledge and charismatic charm has ensured that James has been quoted countless times in the media both locally and at a national level.

Staff at Barton Wyatt have the most incredible loyalty to their firm:

Victoria Holford, the PA to the Partners said:  “Barton Wyatt is like a second family to me.  We have a great team that are all committed to the same goal and it is rather fun spotting the odd celeb that comes to visit!”

Jo Parris, Lettings Manager thinks: “Barton Wyatt enables me to work in an interesting market, see some stunning property and work with a great variation of clients while continually developing professional relationships.  All with the support from the Partners in a professional yet friendly environment.”

Guy Edwards is on the sales team and he commented:  “The work environment is supportive and encouraging whilst our territory is always very interesting and challenging.  Wentworth attracts all sorts of successful and interesting people who expect the very highest level of service.  The Barton Wyatt name carries much respect in the area.”

Even with 200 years of experience under their belts, it doesn’t mean that Barton Wyatt sit on their laurels however. They have led the field numerous times embracing new technology such as QR codes on sign boards and property details, HD video tours of their properties, a dedicated TV channel to reach international buyers, a 24-7 international answering service and shortly embracing Augmented Reality.

One of the latest tools in the Barton Wyatt armoury is another cutting edge product. Taking the humble property brochure to a new level the team have embedded HD video tours of each property into the particulars enabling potential buyers to tour the property from the comfort of their armchairs.

James comments:

“Many of our buyers are looking to spend between £5 and £10 million pounds on a new home and much as static printed brochures remain an integral part of the sale, this new integrated video brochure will bring the houses to life in a way that a photograph could never do.”

Estate agents, like any retailer, must stay ahead of the game and be able to deliver an all-encompassing experience that adds value to the customer journey.  Keeping customers interested in Barton Wyatt and their products is the lifeblood of the business and their experienced team is definitely one of the tools.

To find out more about Barton Wyatt or to talk to an experienced team member call 01344 843 000 or visit www.bartonwyatt.co.uk

Nice to see you, to see you nice! Sir Bruce Forsyth – Strictly on Wentworth

by Viv United Kingdom

It may have a reputation for exclusivity but on the 1750 acre Wentworth Estate in North Surrey, home to one of the UK’s most loved TV presenter’s, Sir Bruce Forsyth, it’s ‘nice to see you, to see you nice!’

A Wentworth resident for 30 years, Sir Bruce’s career has spanned a staggering seven decades; rising to fame in the 1950s series of Sunday Night at the London Palladium he went on to present series such as The Generation Game, Play Your Cards Right, The Price Is Right and You Bet!

Sir Bruce made his first stage appearance back in 1931 at the age of just 3 in a local pantomime in Edmonton, North London, where his family lived.  The little boy, encouraged by his mother — who sang with the Salvation Army band — gave a hilarious rendition of the music hall song “I Lift up My Finger and say Tweet Tweet”. Even at such a young age Bruce was able to bring the house down.

He fell in love with dancing after watching Fred Astaire films aged 8 and went onto to train in dance in Tottenham and then Brixton starting in show business aged 14, with a song, dance and accordion act called “Boy Bruce, the Mighty Atom.”

Despite turning 85 this year, Bruce continues to pull the crowds. This year the showbiz vet was invited to perform at Glastonbury, joining the likes of the Rolling Stones and Dizzee Rascal.  Sir Bruce entertained festival-goers with songs from his solo album ‘These are my Favourites’.

The return of Strictly Come Dancing sees Bruce back in the thick of things with co-host Tess Daly for the eleventh run of this much loved family show. The star studded line-up of twinkle toed wannabe’s includes swimming star Rebecca Adlington, Bond girl Fiona Fullerton and close to Bruce’s heart, golf legend – Tony Jacklin.

Known also for his love of golf, Sir Bruce’s residence is situated on the main island of Wentworth and enjoys views towards the 1st fairway of the West Championship course. A familiar face in Virginia Water and at The Wentworth Club, locals love having his charming persona around town.  And his beautiful wife, Lady Wilnelia Forsyth, the 1975 Miss World Champion from Puerto Rico, is regularly spotted in Virginia Water doing some shopping and mixing with the locals.

James Wyatt, Partner of Barton Wyatt, the Virginia Water based estate agency, comments,

“We are quite used to rich and famous folk living around here however many of them hide themselves behind huge gates and acres of rhododendron bushes. Sir Bruce is not like that; he is very much part of our community and a loveable friendly face in the village.”

Although Virginia Water itself may not be a hub for dancing, there is a Stage Coach Centre in nearby Ascot and dance studies available in Chertsey. But if you are keen to Strictly Come Dance a little closer to home then foxtrot over to Wentworth and consider one of these fabulous houses to perfect your two-step within:

Shimmy over to September Song – built in 2008 for the current owners to a very high specification. The house is totally unique having been designed by Lewandowski Willcox Architects boasting contemporary design with interestingly shaped rooms and split levels giving the house an abundance of character and charm all of its own. The choice of bathroom fittings and the kitchen are all of a contemporary nature and flow consistently through the property.

September Song boasts four reception rooms, a master bedroom with en-suite dressing room and bathroom, two further bedrooms suites and a further two bedrooms with a shared jack and jill bathroom.  The house also has a laundry, study, lift from the garage which houses five cars and landscaped gardens of 1.86 acres. Available now at £4,250,000.

Or hip-hop over to Hill House, an exceptional brand new home in the very heart of the Wentworth Estate, siding onto the East Course. The property is situated in beautifully landscaped and private gardens of well over an acre at the rear.  Set over 4 floors the opportunities for hosting your own Strictly are extensive.

The house has been designed with ample room for a large family.  Five receptions on the ground floor, five bedroom suites in the main house and a large entertainment/games room in the roof.  The basement houses an indoor pool complex with steam room, sauna, Jacuzzi, changing and shower rooms.  A one bedroom staff apartment perches above the garaging for three cars.  Available now at £11,000,000

Waltz on over to Waterford House, which is superbly situated on one of the most prestigious roads within Wentworth Estate. Both the Wentworth clubhouse and the village are within easy walking distance.

No expense was spared in the construction of this house using the finest materials and construction methods.  The amount of technology within the house is astounding so any dance parties here will go with a swing.  Crestron and Lutron systems control the audio visual, curtains and blind. Throughout the house there is a feel of sophisticated luxury with attention to detail and design.

The gardens were designed and created by landscape architects who have achieved a wonderful variety of changing colour throughout the seasons. An extensive terrace spans across the rear of the property to a slightly raised dining area off the concertina doors from the kitchen. A pathway leads around the perimeter of the rear garden to a sun terrace in the north west corner of the garden with an attractive pond and water feature. In the centre of the garden is a very attractive Rill which can be seen as you come through the front door of the property.  £4,350,000

For more information on any of these homes please contact Barton Wyatt on 01344 843 000 or visit www.bartonwyatt.co.uk

Property rocks close to the Box – but choose your village with care

by Viv United Kingdom

Prior to the summer of 2012 and the Olympic Games few people had heard of Box Hill let alone visited this National Trust site unless you were a local, fortunate enough to live on the North Downs in Surrey.

Today, however the story is very different.

  • Walton on the Hill property prices up 8.27% in 5 years
  • Box Hill, owned by the National Trust, featured prominently in 2012 Olympic cycling events
  • Recommended as top London commuter village by Evening Standard

Ever since the infamous Zig-Zag was used as part of the 9 times loop on the Men’s long distance cycling event, Box Hill has become a national treasure.

During the week this sizeable hill retains the peace and quiet that it always enjoyed. The breath-taking views across the surrounding countryside are enjoyed by local walkers, runners and horse-riders. But come the weekend Box Hill is invaded by thousands of keen cyclists dedicated to beating their Zig-Zag personal bests.

More adventurous types use their mountain bikes to ride the off-road trails across the hill; one particularly challenging route involves dragging your two wheels up an almost vertical slope with the hope that the downhill does not result in any broken bones! Known locally as ‘soiled pants’, small groups of daredevils can be seen through the trees high above the River Mole attempting this gravity defying drop.

As reported by the BBC recently, the number of cyclists on Box Hill has increased dramatically since last summer with hundreds of thousands of cyclists now enjoying the North Downs however this volume of cyclists are having a knock-on effect, creating hazards for elderly or inexperienced drivers and environmentally impacting upon this Special Area of Conservation.

But it’s not all bad news for the residents in the area.  Admittedly if you live on the main cycle route you might be a little disgruntled about its new found fame but many local villages are positively benefitting from the attention. Property hunters seeking peace and quiet need to select a village just off the main route enabling you to enjoy this outstanding area for hiking, cycling or just good old fashioned observing – without the hassle of having to fight your way down a single track road with a peloton coming the other way!

One such village which sits just a couple of miles away from the madness is Walton on the Hill boasting one of the finest golf clubs in Surrey (Walton Heath hosts one of the qualifying rounds for the US open) and open footpaths to the North Downs Way and its stunning views. It was also recently cited by the Evening Standard as a top London commuter village.  Property stats according to Zoopla say that property prices are up 8.27% over the past five years here.

The area’s outstanding beauty was just one of the reasons that award-winning house builders Millgate chose Walton on the Hill as the location for their latest luxury development. Jonathan Cranley, Sales and Marketing Director for Millgate comments:

“A good number of our clients are affluent professionals who work in the city but wish to live in the countryside, surrounded by nature to relax and good schools for the children to attend. The village of Walton on the Hill is perfect for this. A great choice of local pubs and restaurants in the area coupled with a scenic undisturbed village boasting its own historic church and village pond is about as good as it gets in Surrey.”

Millgate has designed and built a collection of 6 luxury detached homes in this picturesque village.  The houses are each individual but all share the distinctive quality of design and specification that is synonymous with the Millgate marque.

Prices start from £1,495,000; for more details on these luxurious country homes contact Millgate on 01189 343 344 or visit www.millgatehomes.co.uk.

Millgate appoints agent to sell four new luxury homes in Sunninghill

by Viv United Kingdom

Sunninghill is a peaceful village which sits on the edge of Berkshire, close to Surrey and nudging the boundary of better-known Ascot.

These villages are held in high esteem and are known to attract the rich, the famous and even a smattering of royalty.

  • Newly built luxury homes to be sold by Hamptons International
  •  According to Zoopla, house prices remain buoyant and are up over 6% on 5 years ago
  • New buyers looking for houses in the South East up by 35%

Schooling is of a particularly good standard and is one of the reasons why these villages are so attractive to families.  Parents have been known to move house to get their children into Charters School in Sunninghill, one of the UK’s top performing state schools.

The area sees many expats living here in a truly cross cultural community. Many are driven to the area by the choice of two leading international schools – TASIS in Thorpe and the ACS International Schools in Egham and Cobham are highly appealing to families looking to ensure that their children maintain an international education.  Trains from adjoining Sunningdale take under an hour into Waterloo, whilst Heathrow airport is just 15 miles away, making this an excellent location for business travel.

Julian de la Poer Beresford, Regional Director for Hamptons in Sunninghill, comments on the country mansions that are coming from Millgate:

“Hamptons International is delighted to be working again with Millgate in the sale of Holland Place in Sunninghill, Berkshire.  Millgate’s mission is to be “the best in British house building” and the quality of their work speaks volumes.  Hamptons International has sold several developments for Millgate in the past and they are certainly building a positive reputation from our clients to this effect.

“Holland Place, a development of only four bespoke houses, will provide an opportunity for discerning buyers to acquire a well-appointed individual home, set in a semi-rural location, with garden sizes to match the generous accommodation.

“Holland Place is situated between the prominent towns of Sunningdale and Ascot, internationally recognised for their famous golf course and racecourse. It is perfectly located for motorway access to London and to Heathrow and Gatwick airports.

“With house prices in London now 10% above their pre-recession peak, but the average price in England and Wales still 10% below, the country house market is very good value indeed.  Recent statistics seem to be recognising this.  Our figures show that new buyers looking in the South East are up by 35% on last year, yet the number of new sellers is only up by 17%.  As a result, Hamptons have seen an increase in overall sales of 55% on last year and over the last three months, more sales than any three month period since 2007.  However, there is still ground to be made – prices remain 6% below their peak, but with an increase in enquiries from London buyers in the prime sector, now is a good time to be looking at Holland Place and a move to the country.”

Jonathan Cranley, Sales and Marketing Director for Millgate, who made the Hamptons International appointment, commented:

“We have worked with Hamptons International on several projects previously and we are confident of their ability to attract local, London and international buyers to view our new homes.  The largest property in the portfolio of four that we are building will fetch in the region of £4.75 million and it is likely that this country mansion will sell to a foreign investor.”

This fabulously indulgent project in Sunninghill is due to launch in November 2013.  For further information please contact Millgate on 01189 343344 or visit www.millgatehomes.co.uk.