A Grade II-listed country residence in Bewdley, Worcestershire, where Sir Winston Churchill is rumoured to have secretly met General Charles de Gaulle during World War Two, has been placed on the market for £3.75 million.
Historic Winterdyne House
Winterdyne House, dating back to 1760, boasts seven bedrooms and four bathrooms, along with panoramic views over the River Severn. Its elevated position also offers vistas of the neighbouring West Midlands Safari Park, home to elephants, lions, and tigers.
The Georgian property is steeped in history. It includes a former fort converted into a summer house, which was once used to monitor smugglers on the river. During WWII, the estate served as a headquarters for officers coordinating with Free French forces, with General de Gaulle residing there. Churchill is believed to have visited for discussions on strategies to defeat the Nazis.
After the war, the building operated as an elderly care home. Fire crews were called as many as 12 times a day after a resident repeatedly triggered the alarm just to watch the young firefighters in action.
Previous occupants included wealthy philanthropist Giles Shaw, who opened his grounds to locals and treated children to buns and cakes. His kindness was not always appreciated, with some youngsters stealing flowers and shrubs.
Property features
Set within approximately 30 acres, the mansion includes three reception rooms, a billiards room, gym, cinema room, indoor swimming pool, and landscaped gardens. The estate also provides views of wildlife at the nearby safari park.
The property is being marketed by estate agents Chartwell Noble. George Pickard, the selling agent, commented: "We take immense pride in representing properties of such rare calibre as Winterdyne House. Its elegant architecture, elevated position and rich historic character encapsulate the timeless appeal of the English country house - a legacy we are honoured to help preserve and present to discerning buyers."
