Vanbrugh Terrace, Blackheath, SE3

Probably the most impressive family residence brought to the Blackheath market in recent times, No. 8 has been meticulously restored to an impressive specification and standard by its current custodians over the past two decades. Situated on this coveted road on the northern flank of the Heath, this imposing stucco-fronted home boasts approximately 6,000 square feet of living space, incorporating six bedrooms spread across four floors and a large outbuilding with significant potential to create ancillary accommodation (STPP). No. 8 Vanbrugh Terrace boasts a wealth of original and sensitively restored period features, including reclaimed French oak timber floors, flagstones, ornate coving, marble fire surrounds with open fireplaces, stained glass windows by the artist Edgar Phillips, large sash windows, and working shutters.

The accommodation is generously proportioned, with high ceilings and polished plaster walls. Featuring underfloor heating, and Creston integrated technology for lighting, sound, heating, and security, the property is set well back from the road behind a sliding electronically controlled gate. The driveway has ample space for several vehicles, and the landscaped front garden makes a striking first impression, reflecting the elegance that awaits. Inside, the entry is a mosaic-tiled lobby and hall leading to three superb reception rooms, each offering views of either the Heath or the rear garden, currently set up as a Library, Dining room, and Games room, with an additional cloakroom.

Stairs lead down to the lower ground floor and up to the bedrooms. The lower ground floor boasts a much higher ceiling than may be expected, featuring a Mark Wilkinson bespoke 'Cook's Kitchen' with a central island and ample space for a dining table and chairs. Beyond the kitchen is the utility room and separate cold room, which was the original coal store. The lower floor also features a guest/staff room with an ensuite shower, currently used as a gym. Neighbouring this is the family TV room with direct access to a paved sunken garden with a waterfall. The guest cloakroom completes the accommodation at this level. From the hall, there is side access to the driveway and underground plant room, which also features a wine storage room and ample secure space.

On the first floor, there are two impressive and sizeable rooms. The Drawing room, found to the front of the house, spans the entire width of the house, enjoying wonderful views of the Heath and has matching French marble working fireplaces at either end. To the rear portion of the house is the principal bedroom, with a delightful balcony, a bespoke walk-in wardrobe, an opulent ensuite bathroom with marble flooring, and a shower with a steam function. The second floor features a guest suite with an ensuite shower room, three further generously sized bedrooms, a large family bathroom, and a kitchenette, perfect for the first coffee of the day.

An electronically operated loft hatch and folding ladder provide access to the loft and the storage eaves. The loft is boarded out, has power and light. The owners have also prewired the house for the installation of slate solar panels. The gardens, designed by Terry Williams, feature mature trees and shrubs, a sunken courtyard area with a water feature and barbeque area. The garden measures approximately 130ft in length and has a Rain Bird irrigation system.

At the foot of the garden is the former stable block, offering potential for various uses such as guest or nanny accommodation, a leisure complex, office, or cinema. The space has power and light, plumbing, lots of natural light from the glazed pitched roof, and was most recently used as an Orangery that housed a hot tub. The smaller portion of the stable block is now a garage with an electrically operated door. Lastly, there is rear access onto a rural lane and additional hard standing off-street parking for several vehicles.

Local historian Neil Rhind writes in his book on Blackheath, "There can be no argument that Vanbrugh Terrace is one of the most distinguished and dignified groups of houses in Blackheath." Only one of two complete houses, No. 8 is set at the end of the terrace on a plot that is approximately a third of an acre with delightful landscaped gardens. Built in 1852, this is only the second time it has been available on the open market since 1947.

Vanbrugh Terrace is in a fantastic location in the SE3 postcode. A stroll south across the Heath provides access to Blackheath Village with its array of shops, bars, and restaurants. Blackheath Train Station, Maze Hill, and Westcombe Park are all less than a 15-minute walk away, providing regular services to London Bridge, Cannon Street, Kings Cross, and Charing Cross. Access to the beautiful Royal Greenwich Park is directly opposite the property, with attractions like the Royal Observatory, the National Maritime Museum, and beyond to Greenwich Market. There is Greenwich DLR and Thames Clipper riverboat service for Canary Wharf and beyond. Blackheath Standard is around the corner, where you will find several local independent boutiques, cafes, a library, Boulongerie Jade, and Marks and Spencer Food Hall.

For those with schooling considerations, there are a number of fantastic schools within walking distance, including Pointers, Blackheath Preparatory School, Blackheath High School for Girls, and Thomas Tallis. Further afield, there are shuttle buses to Eltham College, Sevenoaks Boarding School, and Dulwich College, to name a few.