Set along the tranquil River Kennet in Theale, West Berkshire, this exceptional Grade II listed Georgian estate combines historic charm with modern luxury. Once the home of iconic singer-songwriter Kate Bush, the property is now offered at a guide price of £11.5 million, marketed by Strutt & Parker. Spanning 22.54 acres, this unique estate includes a fully refurbished main residence, a Victorian cottage, a converted recording studio, and beautifully landscaped grounds, making it a one-of-a-kind opportunity.
The main house, dating back to 1800, underwent a meticulous renovation and expansion in 2015, led by its current owners. During her ownership, Kate Bush repurposed the property’s outbuildings into a dance and recording studio, blending her creative spirit with the estate’s storied past. Today, these spaces have been thoughtfully converted into a three-bedroom property with additional potential for further use.
The Georgian main residence has been modernised to the highest standards. Its red-brick façade remains intact, but the interior seamlessly blends period elegance with contemporary style. The house’s footprint has increased by 50% with the addition of a striking glass orangery, measuring nearly 1,200 sq. ft. This breathtaking space offers panoramic views of the gardens and river and features a 75ft steel-and-tile footbridge as a central design feature.
Inside, the home offers four double bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms. The principal suite, nearly 500 sq. ft. in size, overlooks the water and the historic ruins of the Georgian paper mill that once operated on the site. The ground floor includes a formal drawing room, sitting room, library, and study, along with the orangery, which serves as a spectacular entertainment space. A high-end Smallbone kitchen, complete with Gaggenau appliances and a secondary prep kitchen, connects to a practical laundry and boot room via a contemporary glass link.
The estate’s additional buildings include a two-bedroom Victorian cottage with an orangery extension, perfect for guests or staff. The former dance studio offers stunning river views and serves as a useful storage space but could be repurposed, subject to planning permissions. The grounds, rich in history, feature the ruins of the original Georgian paper mill, which employed around 100 workers in the 19th century before being destroyed by fire.
Beyond its architectural and historical significance, the property is a haven for wildlife. The gardens include pristine lawns, walled rose and acer gardens, mature trees, and well-stocked flower beds, while the river setting attracts kingfishers and kestrels.
Adding to its appeal, the estate is powered by a private hydroelectric scheme, featuring a three-metre Archimedes screw that generates an average of 40kw per hour. This innovative system ensures the property is self-sufficient in electricity and offers a significant annual income. Modern features also include underfloor heating, air conditioning, an air recirculation system, and a 22kw EV charger supported by a three-phase power supply.
Located just 0.3 miles from Theale Station, the property offers direct services to London Paddington and easy access to the M4. Nearby amenities include the Chiltern Hills, Cobbs Farm Shop, and several highly rated schools, such as Bradfield College, Pangbourne College, and Theale C.E. Primary School (Ofsted: Outstanding).
This estate represents a rare opportunity to own a property that blends rich history, creative heritage, and cutting-edge sustainability. Once home to one of Britain’s most influential musicians, it is a sanctuary of style and innovation in an idyllic riverside setting.
