York House Place, London, W8

From the moment you enter, you are welcomed by a magnificent entrance hall that sets the tone for the rest of the elegant, spacious, and thoughtfully designed home. The apartment boasts excellent proportions, with generous reception areas ideal for both entertaining and everyday family living. The interiors have been beautifully refurbished to a high standard, blending classic architectural features with contemporary comfort and style. Apartments 16 and 16A York House, nicknamed ‘the cottage’, (the latter formerly a porters’ lodge) were combined into one apartment under a previous owner, but there are still two separate titles.

York House itself is an iconic Grade II listed building, steeped in centuries of British history and elegance. Originally built in the 1630s, the core of the building was commissioned by Andrew Pitcarne, a courtier to King Charles I. Over the centuries, the property passed through the hands of notable historical figures including Edward Montagu, 2nd Earl of Manchester, and Henry Hyde, son of Edward Hyde, 1st Earl of Clarendon. In the mid-19th century, it served as the residence of Princess Sophia Matilda, daughter of King George III. York House’s name is a nod to the influential York family, who held land in the area from the 14th to the 17th centuries; a legacy that lives on in the building’s timeless presence and the rich character of its surroundings. In 1905, the mansion was redesigned by architect Durward Brown in a stately early Edwardian style, carefully preserving its heritage while updating it for modern living.

The building comprises of 30 apartments. The building benefits from 24-hour CCTV surveillance, and its proximity to Kensington Palace further enhances the sense of security in the area. Residents enjoy both surface-level parking and the option to purchase spaces in the secure underground car park. The attentive porter team is always on hand to assist with guest parking arrangements. A boom gate at the entrance allows the gatehouse porter to monitor and control all vehicular access, ensuring an added layer of privacy. While the main gate closes at midnight, a dedicated porter remains stationed in the gatehouse around the clock to grant access as needed. The property is exceptionally well-staffed, with a team of nine porters and three on duty at any given time.
Available for use of the residents’ there is a shed for storage of bicycles. The tennis court operates by a membership system. The underground parking has a lift and nearby steps for quick pedestrian access. The excellent managing agent, Esskay, ensure that the building is reliably and sensibly managed and maintained at all times.

Situation

Kensington is one of London’s most prestigious and sought-after neighbourhoods, celebrated for its refined elegance, cultural heritage, and timeless charm. Nestled within the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, this distinguished enclave blends grand period architecture with leafy garden squares, world-class amenities, and a serene, village-like atmosphere.
At its heart lies Kensington High Street, a vibrant thoroughfare lined with luxury boutiques, upscale restaurants, stylish cafés, and renowned department stores. Just moments away, the vast green expanse of Kensington Gardens offers a peaceful retreat, home to Kensington Palace, the Italian Gardens, and the Serpentine Gallery.

Cultural life in Kensington is equally rich, with nearby landmarks such as the Royal Albert Hall, the Natural History Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum contributing to the area’s distinguished reputation.
The neighbourhood also boasts some of London’s finest schools, both private and state, making it an ideal locationfor families.
Transport links are excellent, with Kensington High Street, Gloucester Road, and Notting Hill Gate stations all providing easy access across the capital. Despite its central location, Kensington retains a quiet, residential feel. The perfect balance of city convenience and tranquillity.
The proximity of the estate to the ambassadorial residences of Kensington Palace Gardens and to Kensington Palace enhances the ring of security. The bustle of Kensington High street does not intrude on the exceptional quiet of the estate.

Property Ref Number:

HAM-57748