Hannah Drury, a 42-year-old primary school teacher and trained opera singer, experienced an unexpected life-altering event when she won a stunning £4 million mansion nestled in the heart of the Lake District, along with a cash prize of £250,000. This incredible windfall came from a £25 entry into the Omaze Million Pound House Draw, a subscription she had only recently started in late December. The news, received just three days into her Dry January pledge, prompted an immediate celebration involving a bottle of champagne, effectively ending her short-lived sobriety. The luxurious property boasts breathtaking lakeside and mountain views, private jetty access, and six acres of surrounding woodland, offering the family a tranquil escape from their current three-bedroom home in Frome, Somerset.
The lavishly redesigned mansion showcases reverse-level living, with bedrooms and bathrooms situated on the ground floor and open-plan living spaces, including the kitchen and dining area, occupying the first floor. This unique layout maximizes the panoramic views of Coniston Water, the surrounding mountains, and Grizedale Forest from nearly every room. Adding to the property’s allure is a private spa house equipped with a rainfall shower, a Himalayan salt wall, a therapy table, a gym, and a wooden hot tub strategically placed on the elevated terrace. The property also includes a standalone summerhouse, further enhancing its appeal as a luxurious retreat.
The unexpected win has presented Hannah and her husband Rupert, a 49-year-old operatic tenor and secondary school music teacher, with a range of exciting possibilities. They can choose to reside in the mansion, rent it out for an estimated £4,000 per month, or sell it for a substantial profit. The additional £250,000 cash prize provides financial security and allows them the flexibility to maintain the property comfortably for an extended period. The couple, who met 18 years ago while performing in an opera together, celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary with this extraordinary gift, which they described as the best they could ever give each other.
The initial shock of the win was almost overwhelming for Hannah, who initially thought a friend was playing a prank when she received the call. Even when she realized it was a genuine call, she only anticipated a small cash prize. The revelation of winning the grand prize left her speechless, a rare occurrence for her. The news was equally astounding for her husband, Rupert, who was unaware of her entry into the draw. The sheer magnitude of the win was so celebratory that Hannah felt justified in breaking her Dry January commitment. Their children, aged between two and eight, were equally delighted, with one of them even dreaming about receiving a “big” house the night before the announcement.
The family has been buzzing with excitement since the win, struggling to keep the secret from friends and family. Hannah describes the property as “spellbinding” and “spectacular,” highlighting the “unreal” views and the children’s anticipation of enjoying the hot tub. They plan to relish the mansion as a family retreat and explore various options for its long-term use. Hannah’s parents, who currently live with them, are equally thrilled about the prospect of an upgrade to their living arrangements. Among the possibilities, they are considering hosting opera masterclasses, blending their passion for music with the tranquil setting of their new lakeside home.
This life-changing event has not only secured the family’s financial future but also provided them with opportunities for enriching experiences. Hannah expresses immense gratitude for the win, recognizing that it has fundamentally altered their lives and ensured a bright future for her children. Beyond their personal joy, the Omaze Million Pound House Draw also generated a significant charitable contribution of £5,250,000 for Age UK, a leading charity supporting older people across the UK. This donation will enable Age UK to provide over 10 million minutes of vital services, including friendship, social activities, and practical support, to those in need.
