Elsworthy Road, London, NW3

A door, you will adore.

The word unique is defined as "being the only one of its kind". But its repeated use for cookie-cutter terraced houses has diluted the meaning of the word. Today the fightback for the English language begins, led by a truly unique home on Elsworthy Road, considered by many to be the best street in North London (and certainly is on the best side of the street), with a gargantuan, south-facing, Sun-sational mature garden and, hidden at its end, a secret door which opens directly onto Primrose Hill.

It is unique internationally because after purchasing it in 1983, the current owner had the house remodelled by the young and up and coming David Chipperfield, who went on to have a globally recognised career, was knighted for services to Architecture and was awarded the RIBA Stirling Prize in 2007 and the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2023, considered to be the most prestigious award in the field. This home gives you the unique opportunity to live in the design of one of the world's most famous architects on a daily basis, rather than having to visit his work at the Turner Gallery in Margate or London's Natural History Museum (amongst his other global Oeuvre).

It is unique historically in that it was the only vicarage on Elsworthy Road for St Mary's Primrose Hill from 1907 until 1984, where until its purchase by its current owners, it housed the local vicar in the raised ground floor and above, and a Nun on the ground floor.

Its exterior architecture is unique, and its mansard roof makes it look as if it is adorned with a top hat. You'll know what I mean when you see it. I love walking to the end of the 90' sun-soaked garden, getting a tan on the way, turning around and admiring the stunning structure of this home. It is the only house of its kind that I have seen in my nearly 15-year Estate agency career and 40 years of living in the area.

It is unique in the fact it is the only detached home of its approximate size on the street, as the others are only semi-detached. This feature means a broader garden, a bigger plot, less noise transfer, and fewer opportunities for neighbourly disputes, which I know from my experience in my flat with Jane banging around upstairs would be a dream to have.

In addition to its unique features, it has 6-7 bedrooms (including a huge nanny flat), generous off-street parking space, period features, beautiful brickwork and high 3.6-meter ceilings in the gorgeous sunlit double reception rooms facing due South.

It is most truly unique, though, in the happy and loving environment it has created for the vendors for over 40 years. I am sure that it will do the same for you, as you BBQ with friends while your children play in the garden, and then you all head through the secret door and walk up to the top of Primrose Hill for sundowners while you think how lucky you are to call this unique house, in this unique area of this unique city, yours.

Location

Running along the top of Primrose Hill Park and dating back to the 19th century, Elsworthy Road was developed on grounds belonging to the historic Eton and Middlesex Cricket Club.

Positioned at the Primrose Hill end of Elsworthy Road, this residence benefits from a prime location in one of the most sought-after, tree-lined streets in Belsize Park and Hampstead.

This home is perfectly positioned for a short stroll to the charming Primrose Hill Village, the vibrant Belsize Village, and the local shops and amenities on England’s Lane. For additional shopping and dining options, St. John’s Wood High Street is also nearby. This location combines historic appeal with modern convenience, making it an ideal setting.

The nearest tube stations, Chalk Farm and Swiss Cottage, are both within comfortable walking distance, offering convenient transport links via the Northern and Jubilee Lines.

Garden

90’ long south facing garden, with a door opening directly onto the park

Parking - Off street

Off street parking for one vehicle, resident street parking