A piece of British history is now up for grabs. Great Tangley Manor, a manor house that has been continuously lived in for over a thousand years, has been listed for sale at £4.95 million.
Located in Wonersh, Surrey, this Grade I-listed property has foundations dating back to 1016, making it arguably the UK’s oldest constantly occupied home.
Life Inside a Historic Manor
The current owners, Anne Powell-Evans, 79, and her husband Glyn, have lived in the manor for nearly 30 years.
They were first drawn to its storied past and stunning gardens and have since meticulously documented every resident since 1016.
Over the centuries, the manor has welcomed notable figures including Henry I and George VI, and it was reputedly King John’s hunting lodge in the 12th century.
Royal Signatures and Timeless Features
The manor is brimming with history. Several windows bear signatures from King George V, Queen Mary, and King George VI.
Its timber includes wood from the Spanish Armada, gifted to a previous owner in recognition of his support of the Crown.
A fire centuries ago led to a partial rebuild, adding a Tudor frontage in 1582, blending medieval charm with later architectural styles.
Academic and Personal Passion
Anne Powell-Evans’ fascination with the manor goes beyond ownership—she even completed a Master’s degree focusing on Great Tangley Manor.
“It just draws you in. The history is palpable, and every corner tells a story,” she said.
Hidden treasures like a secret priest hole in the study fireplace only add to its allure.
Modern Luxuries Meet Historic Charm
Despite its ancient roots, the manor offers modern comforts across 11,000 sq ft of space.
It boasts ten bedrooms, six bathrooms, multiple reception rooms, a 40ft indoor pool, sauna, tennis court, helicopter hangar, and a Second World War air-raid shelter.
The grounds stretch across nearly ten acres, complete with a moat, providing both privacy and grandeur just six minutes from Guildford’s center.
Selling After Decades of Care
The couple is selling primarily due to the upkeep. Running the property costs up to £7,000 a month, and maintaining such a vast, historic estate has become increasingly demanding.
“There is nothing worse than seeing something deteriorate around you.
We want to pass it on to someone with more energy than we now have,” Anne explained.
A Manor Steeped in Culture
Over the centuries, Great Tangley Manor has been home to remarkable figures, including William the Conqueror’s younger brother and Odo Bishop of Bayeux.
It has even appeared on screen, serving as a filming location for Miss Marple’s The Moving Finger in 2006.
The current owners have modernized the property while preserving its historic essence, from installing a glass extension to updating electrics and replanting gardens.
An Invitation to Own History
Now, this extraordinary manor is ready for its next chapter.
For anyone seeking a home steeped in over a millennium of history, complete with modern amenities and a touch of royal legacy, Great Tangley Manor offers a rare and unparalleled opportunity.