The decaying former residence of the late disgraced television personality Rolf Harris, situated along the River Thames, has finally been sold. This property was the site where Harris perpetrated several of the sexual assaults detailed during his criminal trial. Last month, the house failed to achieve its reserve price at auction after being listed for £1.95 million.
Auction Details and Sale
Bidding commenced at £1.4 million when no offer reached the £1.95 million asking price. The auction eventually stalled at £1,540,000, falling short of the reserve. Prospective buyers were informed that this bid was “very close” to the reserve but insufficient to generate further interest. A current online listing now states: “Sold after the auction on 26 March 2026 for an undisclosed amount.”
Property History and Condition
Harris acquired the home in 1980 alongside his wife, Alwen. However, the property has significantly deteriorated since his death from neck cancer in May 2023. Alwen, who remained loyal throughout his legal proceedings, passed away the following year. Their only child, Bindi, inherited the house and the majority of Harris’s £16 million estate. Land Registry records indicate no outstanding mortgage on the property, known as Highlands Cottage in Bray, Berkshire.
The title deeds also include fishing rights, with a clause stating: “The land has the benefit of the right of fishing in and over the said moiety of the bed of the River Thames.” The residence features four bedrooms, including a large master suite, multiple balconies overlooking the river, and 6,440 square feet of living space.
Harris’s Criminal Background
Harris, a prominent TV entertainer and acclaimed artist from the 1960s until his arrest, was sentenced to over five years in prison in July 2014. He was convicted of twelve indecent assaults against four young girls, with some offenses occurring at the Bray property between 1968 and 1986. While incarcerated at Bullingdon prison near Oxford, he earned the nickname “Willy Wonka” from fellow inmates for distributing chocolate bars during domino games and also providing signed pictures.
