Unique Medieval Property for Sale in Kent
A remarkable medieval property has hit the UK real estate market, offering a unique lifestyle for potential buyers, but there’s a bit of a twist. This estate, known as St. John’s Jerusalem, has a rich history, originally belonging to the Knights Hospitallers, a group of warrior monks. It’s situated in the historic village of Sutton at Horn in Kent.
As reported by Strut & Parker, the house’s origins date back to the 12th century. It was initially used as a local headquarters or monastery while the Knights participated in the Crusades.
The listing states, “Registered in 1199 and nestled within a lush garden alongside Lodge Cottage and a former Deer Park, this historic home is indeed splendid, set in a very private and protected environment.”
The main house features 8 bedrooms and a high reception area. It was renovated during the Georgian era but still encapsulates its medieval essence with modernized kitchen facilities.
The property is described as “a wonderfully atmospheric home of outstanding quality,” and it includes a 13th-century chapel on its eastern edge. The house is approached by a long drive that weaves through Old Deer Park, leading to a spacious circular area in front of the house.
“This is an unusual opportunity to live in and preserve this historic home.”
Available for about £3,250,000, which is equivalent to more than 4.4 million US dollars, the property has one catch. It’s not sold outright—the lease will eventually need to be transferred to a national trust within a century. The current lease ends on September 29, 2122.
Edward Church, the property’s real estate agent, mentioned that listings like St. John’s Jerusalem are quite rare. He noted, “These homes are special because they fall under the auspices of an organization that protects historically significant residences.” He added, “This is a remarkable chance to live in and take care of this home.”
Though the lease may deter some potential buyers, those who purchase the estate would be living where notable medieval figures, including King John and Henry III, once roamed, with the earliest recorded visit occurring in 1214.
The property has changed hands over time; it was given to various influential royal favorites, including John De Pulteny and Thomas Cromwell. In 1540, King Henry VIII confiscated and sold the lands belonging to English orders, including the area where St. John’s Jerusalem is located.
The current owner values the historical significance of the site, which includes extensive archaeological features and a garden filled with medicinal plants that reflect the history of St. John. Other features include an orchard credited with introducing the Kentish Pippin apple, tracing back to the naturalist Abraham Hill in 1670.
