Princess Margaret’s Former Retreat Hits the Market

The Old House, once a private retreat for Princess Margaret and her husband Antony Armstrong-Jones, known as Lord Snowdon, is now available for sale for the first time in its history. Listed at approximately $5.3 million with Blue Book Agency, the West Sussex cottage offers a unique piece of history. Initially built in 1481, The Old House became part of the Messel family in 1890, eventually being gifted to Lord Snowdon by his uncle, designer Oliver Messel, before Snowdon’s marriage to Princess Margaret.

Lord Snowdon transformed the 5,750-square-foot home situated on 5.52 acres into a private getaway. The house attracted notable guests such as actor Peter Sellers, ballerina Dame Margot Fonteyn, Bianca Jagger, and financier Sir Evelyn de Rothschild. A blend of royalty and influential cultural figures frequented the residence, contributing to its significance in British cultural history, as noted by Theo James-Wright, a Director at Blue Book Agency.

Inside, the home exudes rustic charm and features a living room with a unique fireplace, redesigned kitchen, and balcony sourced from Ascot Racecourse. Additionally, Lord Snowdon created a lake and a collection of newspaper clippings pertaining to royal events and scandals. The estate includes six bedrooms, a pool house ideal for guests, garden office, library, and various amenities. Although never publicly listed until now, the estate was privately sold by Snowdon in 2003 and acquired by the current owners in 2005.

Princess Margaret and Lord Snowdon’s relationship began in 1958, leading to their engagement in February 1960 and televised wedding in May 1960 at Westminster Abbey, viewed globally by an estimated 300 million people. Their marriage, lasting until 1976, produced two children: David Armstrong-Jones and Lady Sarah Chatto. Despite their separation finalized in 1978, their friendship continued in subsequent years.

The property encompasses manicured gardens and a sizable pool, enhancing its appeal. Following their divorce, Lord Snowdon remarried Lucy Lindsay-Hogg, while Princess Margaret chose not to remarry. Her passing occurred in 2002 at age 71 following declining health, while Lord Snowdon passed away in 2017 at age 86.