Rookery Road, Downe, Orpington

Set within approximately four acres of beautifully maintained gated grounds, Rookery Villas is an exceptional and sympathetic conversion of a grand period country house into six elegant Regency-style townhouses. This property is a rare opportunity to acquire a substantial and beautifully presented home extending to approximately 2,830 sq ft, combining historic charm with contemporary living.

The Rookery itself has a notable history. It was formerly home to Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, the first person to sail solo non-stop around the world, and later to Frederic Lubbock, founder of the nearby Emmetts Garden. In the early 1860s Charles Darwin, a resident of nearby Down House, was also a regular visitor as he kept part of his extensive orchid collection in the glasshouses within the grounds.

This impressive property provides flexible and well-proportioned accommodation arranged over four floors, making it ideal for modern family living.

The lower ground floor offers versatile additional living space currently arranged as a large family room, used as a home cinema and gym but equally suitable as a spacious bedroom or reception room. There is also a utility room with integrated storage, fridge and wine chiller, a modern three-piece shower room, and a further bonus room which has previously been used as a bedroom or study. Three additional storage rooms provide excellent practical space. The basement benefits from a sump and pump waterproofing system with backup power.

The ground floor features a welcoming entrance hall with cloakroom leading to an impressive open-plan kitchen and reception room. The stylish modern kitchen is fitted with a comprehensive range of integrated appliances including a gas hob, fan and steam ovens, coffee machine and wine fridge. The reception area is enhanced by elegant sash windows and double doors opening onto a paved patio, providing direct access to both the private garden and the communal grounds. To the front of the property is a generous dining room, ideal for entertaining.

On the first floor, the principal bedroom enjoys fitted wardrobes, a modern en-suite shower room and double doors opening onto a large private roof terrace, allowing natural light to flood the room. This floor also provides a spacious second double bedroom with fitted wardrobes and attractive views over the front grounds, along with a further modern bathroom.

The second floor offers two additional double bedrooms with large sash windows and a contemporary three-piece bathroom, providing excellent accommodation for family members, guests or home working.

Throughout the property there is underfloor heating and excellent insulation, ensuring comfort and energy efficiency.

Externally, the property benefits from a beautiful and substantial private garden, featuring an enclosed vegetable garden, half-brick greenhouse, well-stocked borders and an impressive stone bench. A small woodland section has been left in a natural state to encourage wildlife. Residents also enjoy access to the extensive communal gardens, which are mainly laid to lawn with woodland areas, a communal seating space with fire pit and a children’s play area.

Further benefits include two allocated parking spaces and a spacious en-bloc garage, as well as an enclosed communal bin storage area.

The property is located in the picturesque village of Downe, a conservation area offering a rural lifestyle while remaining conveniently located for nearby Orpington and Bromley South mainline stations, both accessible via local bus services. The village itself offers a well-regarded primary school, a village hall hosting regular events, and two traditional pubs. Nearby green spaces include High Elms Country Park, West Kent and High Elms Golf Courses, and the historic Down House, the former home of Charles Darwin.

Additional Information

Services:
Gas – Mains
Electricity – Mains
Sewerage – Mains

Basement waterproofing: Double pump and sump system with backup power.

Service Charge: £1,600 per annum
Sinking Fund: £600 per annum
London Borough of Bromley - Council Tax Band - G
Energy Efficiency Rating - C