Historic Magna Carta Island For Sale
The island is believed to be the setting where King John met with rebellious barons and signed the Magna Carta in 1215, considered one of the most important documents in history and an important symbol of liberty.
The charter is considered foundational for modern democracy. A piece of the original Magna Carta sold at a Sotheby’s auction for $21.3M.
In 1974, Queen Elizabeth II visited and commemorated the island by planting a tree.
Although the exact place where the charter was signed is debated among historians, a stone in the Charter Room of the Grade II-listed house commemorates the Magna Carta. The walls of the Charter Room are hung with the crests of King John and the 25 barons elected to keep the charter safe—including the owner of the island, Richard de Montfichet.
The area is rich with royal history: a 2000 year old yew tree on his property is said to be the site where Henry VIII held clandestine meetings with Anne Boleyn in the 1530s.
The house was built in 1834 by George Simon Harcourt, Esq Lord of the Manor and the Sheriff of the County.
The 19th century house requires some restoration (subject to the appropriate permits) and features charming period details, with 7 bedrooms, a lovely sunroom, and an impressive paneled dining room.
There’s a pool and a neighbouring cottage, and a small bridge that connects the island to main roads.
The riverside property offers 1279 feet of frontage directly on the Thames river, and is located just 10 minutes from Windsor Castle, and 5 minutes to Heathrow airport.
All photos belong to the listing agency.
