A magnificent mansion originally constructed for a duke, which later transformed into a glamorous party house frequented by Hollywood royalty, has been listed on the market with an asking price of £3 million. Located on Marine Parade in Brighton, this extraordinary property features an exquisite Art Deco cinema room, a wrap-around rosewood drinks bar, and a sweeping staircase, creating a captivating time capsule from Hollywood's golden era.
A Storied History of Illustrious Owners and Guests
The property's remarkable lineage of owners and distinguished guests reads like a veritable Who's Who of twentieth-century stage, screen, and the arts. Originally built around 1810 for the Duke of Bedford, the mansion was subsequently purchased by Cecil D'Oyly John, the Queen Mother's favourite artist, before coming into the possession of the pre-eminent playwright Sir Terence Rattigan.
Sir Terence Rattigan, celebrated for timeless plays including The Winslow Boy, The Browning Version, and The Deep Blue Sea, is commemorated with a distinctive blue Regency Society plaque affixed to the exterior of the house. During his ownership, Rattigan utilised the property as a seafront retreat and vibrant party house, regularly entertaining illustrious friends such as actors Laurence Olivier, Vivien Leigh, and Margaret Leighton.
Architectural Splendour and Modern Amenities
This six-bedroom residence boasts breathtaking views over the English Channel and features a spacious, south-facing courtyard. The luxurious Art Deco cinema room has been meticulously restored and upgraded by the current owners, providing an ideal space for viewing classic films. This cinematic space has proven so authentic that it has been utilised by both UK and international television and film companies for location filming.
The enormous reception room opens through a grand archway, with abundant natural light streaming through the tall windows. With a wood-burning stove set within a white Carrara marble fireplace, cast iron radiators, and tartan carpet throughout, the room achieves a perfect balance of inviting cosiness and elegant grandeur.
The handmade real wood kitchen and breakfast room masterfully blends modern design with period charm, featuring numerous appliances and bespoke walnut drawers. The first floor showcases ornate plaster cast ceilings enhanced with gilded accents and a beautiful open marble fireplace, while one of the property's bathrooms is fitted with a large modern bath, shower, and sophisticated silver accents.
Preserving the Property's Character and Legacy
Great care has been taken to honour and preserve the mansion's distinctive character, which has been profoundly shaped by its influential occupants throughout history. A grand wooden spiral staircase, originally installed in the 1960s by Sir Rattigan to impress his guests with a dramatic entrance, remains a striking centrepiece within the property.
The main house contains three double bedrooms, each with en-suite bathrooms, two reception rooms, a kitchen diner, and a study. The study features bookcases framing the original Georgian fireplace that were installed during Rattigan's ownership, likely serving as the room where he spent countless hours writing his celebrated works.
A double bedroom on the second floor is known as the Margaret Leighton Suite, named after the BAFTA-winning actress who became Sir Rattigan's muse. Sir Rattigan originally created a pink en-suite bathroom for her, which has been respectfully honoured by the current owners who have updated the space with underfloor heating, a marble mosaic tiled floor, and a drench-style shower.
Additional Features and Current Listing Details
Adorning the walls are four paintings by the celebrated artist and former owner Cecil D'Oyly John, which can be purchased through separate negotiation. The property, known as Bedford House, was initially listed for £3.5 million last year but has undergone a price reduction this month to £3 million.
The mansion's glittering past will not be forgotten, with a bust of Sir Rattigan and a signed photograph of Margaret Leighton remaining within the home as testament to its remarkable heritage. Offered by estate agents Fine & Country, the listing enthusiastically describes the lower ground floor as containing "a particularly special Art Deco-inspired three double bedroom, two bathroom apartment."
The estate agents further elaborate: "What makes this floor particularly special is the extraordinary cinema room, perfectly suited to the film star guests who once frequented this period property. This Art Deco inspired room is a complete indulgence, with a stunning stained-glass entrance, a lit staircase, and a high gloss rosewood and Birdseye maple bar. Electric curtains open to reveal the large TV, wired with surround sound, offering a true cinematic experience for both film and television."
Positioned just yards from Brighton's iconic pebble beach, the fortunate new owners will be able to take full advantage of perfect swimming spots and the vibrant array of seafront bars and restaurants, continuing the property's legacy as both a luxurious residence and an entertainment destination.
