
Take 5: Homes for sale connected to talented women

International Women’s Day has been celebrated for over 100 years as a powerful movement advocating for greater gender equality. The first gathering, in 1911, saw women and men come together to campaign for women’s rights to vote, work, and hold public office.
Since then, the day has become a global occasion, driving initiatives to strive for greater change, as well as honouring the talent and accomplishments of women throughout history. In recognition of this, we’ve selected five homes currently for sale that are connected to talented women.

The Gatehouse
Goudhurst, Kent
Found within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, The Gatehouse exudes a timeless elegance, with a magnificent dining hall, sweeping galleried landing, and expansive wrap-around gardens. Its distinguished past only adds to its allure. Until her passing in 1967, the home was owned by Dame Edith Evans, one of the greatest stage actresses of the 20th century. Alongside the theatre, she was also celebrated for her performances on screen, which earnt her a Golden Globe, a New York Film Critics Circle Award, and numerous other prestigious accolades. The Gatehouse, much like its former owner, carries a sense of grandeur and legacy that makes it an incredible special country home.

Shenfield Mill
Theale, West Berkshire
Shenfield Mill was once the home of renowned singer-songwriter, Kate Bush, who used the property’s outbuildings as dance and recording studios. The home has since been extensively renovated by the current owners, who have added an incredibly impressive contemporary glass extension. As part of their works, the owners have installed an Archimedes screw, which generates an average of 40kw per hour of electricity that not only powers the entire estate for self-sufficiency, but also generates a significant annual income.

Durford Edge
Petersfield, Hampshire
Gertrude Jekyll, perhaps the most influential Arts & Crafts garden designer of the 20th century, created and advised on more than 400 gardens across the globe during her illustrious career and her designs still shape the way we approach garden aesthetics today. Durford Edge features one of these gardens, and the home is now available for sale. The home is surrounded by 10 acres of grounds that are a true testament Jekyll’s work, featuring tiered formal lawns, specimen trees, and woodland - all laid out according to her original planting plan.

Alton Albany Farm
Barr, Near Girvan
Alton Albany Farm, a five-bedroom house set in the picturesque conservation area of The Barr, extends to 6.1 acres. Currently owned by Andrea Dean, a leading garden photographer renowned for her collaborations with celebrated designers, such as Dan Pearson and James Alexander-Sinclair. Andrea’s journey as a photographer began in South Africa, where she documented wildlife projects for the iconic Dr. Jane Goodall. Over the years, her work has expanded to include private gardens, wildflower meadows, and sweeping landscapes. It’s no surprise that Alton Albany Farm boasts a rich variety of gardens, paddocks, and grounds—reflecting Andrea’s connection and talent for capturing the natural world.

Merton House
Chilham, Kent
Merton House is a mid-century property with unique look. Inside, you’ll find light-filled living spaces and a spectacular leisure complex. The swimming pool is set across a 54 ft space with a movable glass-roof, complete with a raised gallery, sauna, shower room, and dedicated gym area. It’s easy to see why this modernist masterpiece was originally the home of local artist and sculptor Christine Merton, who commissioned the creation of this striking home in 1964 and used the current sitting room as an art studio where she nurtured her talent for sculpting. She founded Whitstable Contemporary Arts, which was responsible for the creation of the town's Horsebridge Centre.