Purley Magna, Purley On Thames, RG8

Purley Magna is almost entirely concealed from the road. The approach gives little away at first, passing through mature trees before the drive opens to reveal the pale, ordered façade of a substantial Georgian mansion. It is an arrival with a sense of discovery: a building of architectural presence, set apart within its own parkland, yet passed every day by people unaware that it is there.

Number 3 occupies the entire top floor and is one of only three apartments within the principal house. Its scale is immediately unexpected. Extending to more than 3,200 square feet, it has the proportions and spatial generosity more readily associated with a country house, together with the privacy and simplicity of apartment living.

The position has been central to the current owners’ enjoyment of the home over the past decade. There is quiet, space and an outlook across the surrounding landscape, but without the compromise of isolation. Tilehurst station is around a 15-minute walk away, Reading is one stop by train, and London, Heathrow and the M4 remain readily accessible.

The original house dates from the late 18th century, when Georgian architecture was shaped by clarity, symmetry and proportion. In 2006, the mansion was comprehensively restored by T A Fisher in collaboration with English Heritage, creating just three exceptional apartments while preserving the building's historic character.

Tall sash windows, generous ceiling heights, original fireplaces and beautifully balanced rooms define the apartment today. The windows were refurbished and re-insulated in 2023, ensuring the elegance of the original architecture is matched by thoughtful modern stewardship.

The kitchen forms the practical heart of the home, designed for everyday living as comfortably as entertaining. The current owners’ favourite view is from the kitchen, looking along the length of the apartment and out all the way to Reading town centre. A second reception currently serves as a media room but could equally become a formal dining room or library.

The dual-aspect drawing room is filled with natural light throughout the day and enjoys expansive views across the estate and beyond. Morning light rises over the tennis court before moving across the home and setting beyond the courtyard, making the changing landscape part of daily life.

Mirroring the drawing room, the generously sized principal suite also enjoys a dual aspect view, with a private dressing room and en-suite bathroom, while two further double bedrooms are served by a family bathroom.

A private basement store, full-sized garage, dedicated parking and generous visitor parking provide practical advantages rarely associated with apartment living. Beyond, seven acres of gated parkland, mature trees and a residents' tennis court surround the mansion, creating the atmosphere of a private country estate without the responsibility of maintaining it. Walks lead directly to the Thames Path, Mapledurham Lock and Sulham Woods, while Pangbourne, Reading and Tilehurst stations are all within easy reach.

3 Purley Magna offers the elegance and proportions of a distinguished Georgian country house with the simplicity, security and practicality of apartment living. Its top floor setting offers 360 degree views across the Thames Valley and beyond. It is a home for those who value architecture, landscape and space, while remaining effortlessly connected to London and the wider South East.

Communal Garden

7 acres of shared parkland with a tennis court

Parking - Allocated parking

2 private parking spaces plus ample guest parking. Plus garage.