The most expensive house in the UK, boasting an astounding 40 bedrooms and a private underground pool, has captured the attention of luxury property enthusiasts. Located in Regent’s Park, London, this Grade II listed three-storey mansion was affectionately dubbed the ‘White House of Britain’ and made headlines when it was put up for sale for a jaw-dropping £250 million in March 2023. The property, known as The Holme, sits on a four-acre estate and offers not only a lavish living space but also intricate interiors adorned with millions of pounds worth of gold leaf.
Architectural critics have praised The Holme for its presidential air, with its white facade, grand porch, gables, and rotunda supported by four columns. Built in 1818, this historical masterpiece overlooks the park’s boating lake and spans an impressive 29,000 square feet. The mansion not only features 40 bedrooms but also includes eight garages, a ballroom, a tennis court, and an underground swimming pool. The name ‘The Holme’ is derived from the Saxon term for “river island,” adding to its historical charm.
Originally designed by Decimus Burton and built by his father, James Burton, The Holme was the second villa to grace Regent’s Park and was a residence of the renowned Burton family. The interior of the mansion, as depicted in images from a 1940 edition of Country Life magazine, showcases opulent details such as chandeliers, plush carpeted floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Prior to private ownership, The Holme was part of the Crown Estate until 1984, with the freehold still retained by the Crown today.
In 1991, the property was owned by the children of ex-Saudi defence minister Prince Khaled bin Sultan al-Saud, who acquired it for £34 million through the Guernsey firm, Quendon Ltd. Following financial complications, the mansion was listed again in 2023 for an astounding £250 million price tag, solidifying its status as the UK’s most expensive home at the time. In December 2024, the property was sold for £139 million to a mysterious buyer, rumored to be a “tech billionaire” from the US seeking a prestigious London residence.
A vintage snippet unearthed by the BBC humorously highlighted the luxurious lifestyle of The Holme, mentioning the presence of noisy swan neighbors, a heron family overseeing the property, and even a squatter duck with plans for breeding. The history and grandeur of The Holme continue to fascinate property enthusiasts and history buffs alike, cementing its status as a timeless architectural gem in the heart of London.