Forest Lodge, West Hill, London SW15

This handsome apartment forms part of Forest Lodge, a Grade II-listed building in Putney built in 1862. Set on the ground-floor, it brims with original features, including elegant tiled fireplaces and elaborate ceiling moulding. The building is part of the Whitelands Park estate, which has its own private gardens, and is just a seven-minute walk away from the green expanses of Putney Heath. Richmond Park and Wimbledon and Putney Commons also close by. East Putney Underground station (District line) provides easy access to Clapham Junction, Kensington and central London, and there are several bus stops close to the apartment.

Setting the Scene

Forest Lodge was built 1862 for Joseph Gurney, a shorthand writer for the Houses of Parliament. In 1930, the building became part of Whitelands College. One of the oldest higher education institutions in England, this teacher training college aimed to 'produce a superior class of parochial schoolmistresses', and was situated on the site until it relocated again in later years.

Giles Gilbert Scott, architect of Liverpool Anglican Cathedral and other prestigious public buildings, designed the new college, and also made additions to the design of Forest Lodge. The three-storey building is an excellent example of Italianate style, with three tall stacks, canted bay windows and a hipped slate roof.

The Grand Tour

From the street, entry is to the gardens of Forest Lodge. Its striking light stone brickwork profile rises beyond, with wide original windows that hint at the brightness within. Entry is to a shared hallway, with the apartment's entrance beyond.

From the hallway, an original wooden door opens onto an expansive living space. At one end, an exceedingly tall tripartite bay contains three sash windows that capture views of the greenery beyond - best viewed from the romantic window seat below.

Solid oak parquet flooring runs underfoot, and overhead elaborate ceiling moulds and a ceiling rose signal the building's provenance. An original fireplace is also found here, with intricate tiling and a large built-in mirror. Adjacent to the living space is the kitchen, fitted with an oven, gas hob, warm-toned timber cupboards and an black granite countertop.

A spacious double bedroom is at the rear of the apartment, with intricate cornicing and towering bay windows that flood the room with light. Another fireplace is sited here, with a  charming tiles offset by a sleek grey marble surround.

Tiled walls and floors line the bathroom, which has a glass-panelled shower.

The Great Outdoors

The building is surrounded by a leafy and well-maintained residents’ gardens, with plenty of places to relax or gather. There is also an excellent library on the estate, along with a well-equipped communal gymnasium.

Out and About

Forest Lodge is just a few minutes’ walk from Putney Common, a serene spot perfect for a morning run or an afternoon stroll. The green expanses of Richmond Park and Wimbledon and Putney Common are also close by, as is Wimbledon Park and all of the thrill of Centre Court in the summer.

The area is replete with greenery; Putney Heath is a short walk away and Richmond Park is within easy reach.

There are also plenty of opportunities for eating and drinking; popular brunch spot Piptree is just a 13-minute walk away on Upper Richmond Road, while local favourite Pizzeria Pomodoretto is also nearby. The Telegraph pub is a great spot for summer's day refreshment on the edge of Putney Heath.

East Putney Underground station (District Line) offers easy access to Clapham Junction, Kensington and central London, and there are several bus stops close to the apartment.

Tenure: Share of Freehold
Lease Length: Approx. 999 years remaining
Service Charge: Approx. £4,500 per annum
Ground Rent: Approx. N/A
Council Tax Band: F