The Holme, a majestic Grade-II listed mansion nestled within the prestigious Regent’s Park of London, has recently been acquired for a staggering £139 million, marking it the second most expensive residential sale in British history. This opulent residence, boasting 40 bedrooms, eight garages, a subterranean swimming pool, and a private tennis court, occupies four acres of prime land, offering unparalleled seclusion and grandeur in the heart of the city. While the buyer’s identity remains shrouded in mystery, sources suggest an American tech billionaire seeking a London base is behind the purchase. The sale culminates a fascinating history for The Holme, a story intertwined with royalty, financial intrigue, and the evolution of one of London’s most coveted addresses.
The Holme’s architectural significance is undeniable. Its neoclassical design, featuring a striking four-column Corinthian portico and columns gracing a central bow overlooking the meticulously manicured gardens and the serene Boating Lake, exudes a “presidential” aura. Interior details, though guarded from public view, are rumored to include lavish embellishments with gold leaf, adding to the property’s already considerable opulence. Described as a “once-a-decade kind of property,” The Holme offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern luxury, a combination that clearly justifies its hefty price tag.
The property’s journey through time has been as captivating as its current grandeur. The land on which it stands was once part of the vast Forest of Middlesex, appropriated by King Henry VIII after the dissolution of the monasteries. It later fell into the hands of Oliver Cromwell before being restored to the Crown with the return of Charles II. The eventual development of Regent’s Park, including The Holme, was envisioned as an exclusive enclave for the wealthy elite, a vision partially realized with the construction of eight grand villas, including the one designed by Decimus Burton in the early 19th century which became The Holme.
The more recent history of The Holme involves the Saudi royal family. Prince Khaled bin Sultan al-Saud acquired the property in 1991 for £34 million. However, financial difficulties arose in 2016 when the mansion was used as collateral for a loan, a portion of which was reportedly used to lease a private jet. The subsequent crackdown on the Saudi royal family by Crown Prince Mohammed bin-Salman further exacerbated Prince Khaled’s financial woes, forcing him to put The Holme back on the market in 2023 to meet creditor demands. This ultimately paved the way for its recent sale.
The sale, handled by Luxembourg-based wealth management company Zedra’s UK subsidiary, initially aimed for a record-breaking £250 million. While the final price of £139 million fell short of this ambitious target, it still represents a substantial sum and secures The Holme’s place as the second most expensive home ever sold in the UK. The property’s rich history, coupled with its architectural distinction and prime location, undoubtedly contributed to its allure and ultimate value.
The Holme stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Regent’s Park, a testament to John Nash’s grand vision for an exclusive residential haven within the bustling metropolis. From its royal origins and its transition through various owners, including a Saudi prince, to its current status as a trophy asset for an undisclosed American tech billionaire, The Holme’s narrative reflects not only the fluctuating fortunes of its inhabitants but also the broader historical and economic currents shaping London’s landscape. Its story continues to unfold, now with a new chapter yet to be written within the grand walls of this iconic residence.
