A historic property in East Sussex, believed to be one of the oldest inhabited homes in Britain, has had its asking price slashed by almost £300,000. The Grade II listed property, named Pilgrims, boasts parts that date back to the 12th century and has connections to famous figures such as Victorian Augustus Egg and his close friend, novelist Charles Dickens. The property failed to find a buyer during the pandemic when it was initially listed for sale with an asking price of £900,000. Now back on the market, Pilgrims is listed for £625,000, which is 30.4% lower than its original price two years ago. The house is located in Borough Lane, Eastbourne, and has a blue plaque on the front to commemorate Dickens’ visits.
Pilgrims is a historic property with a rich history, having once been frequented by Dickens and Egg during the 1830s. The property is situated in a popular area with amenities nearby, including three golf courses, a bowling alley, and a sailing marina. The house is much loved by its current owners, who have lived there for almost four decades. With four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and original features such as exposed timber beams and leaded light windows, Pilgrims offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern comforts. The period property also includes an inglenook fireplace in the living room and a vaulted ceiling in the main bedroom.
In addition to its historical significance, Pilgrims offers convenient access to transport links and schools, making it an attractive option for families. The property is close to four train stations, with Eastbourne train station less than a mile away. There are also four schools within a mile, including Gildredge House and The Cavendish School. Despite the recent price reduction, Pilgrims still commands a premium price compared to the average property in Eastbourne and the UK as a whole. The average price of a property sold in Eastbourne in the past 12 months is £311,724, slightly below the UK average of £328,848.
The current owners have made several additions to the property over the years, including a garden room and an extension in 1783. The property covers a total of 183.9 square meters, featuring a cellar and original architectural details. The home’s proximity to amenities, such as the Lamb Inn pub where Egg and Dickens reportedly performed in amateur shows, adds to its appeal. Although Pilgrims has a high price tag compared to the area average, its unique historical significance and character make it a one-of-a-kind property for buyers seeking a blend of tradition and modern living. With its reduced asking price, Pilgrims presents an opportunity for those looking to own a piece of British history in a picturesque location in Eastbourne.
Overall, Pilgrims is a timeless property with a rich heritage, offering a glimpse into Britain’s past while providing modern comforts for its inhabitants. The house’s connections to Charles Dickens and Augustus Egg add to its allure, making it a unique and desirable property in East Sussex. The recent price reduction makes Pilgrims more accessible to potential buyers, while its proximity to amenities, schools, and transport links adds to its appeal. For those seeking a historic home with charm and character, Pilgrims presents a rare opportunity to own a piece of British architectural history in a beautiful setting in Eastbourne.
