Daily Times

A stunning West Sussex castle and surrounding estate which was once home to Hollywood legend Judy Garland has hit the market for £6.25 million. The incredible four-turreted structure is located in between the Surrey and Sussex border, close to the village of Chiddingfold and is surrounded by gardens totalling 120 acres. The Grade II listed property, named The Deer Tower, has hit the market for the first time in 25 years after being purchased by its previous owners in 1997 and was also once home to British actress Charlotte Rampling.

Built in the 18th century, the stunning property has had many improvements, modernisations and has been extended over the years with the most recent works taking place in 1995.

Spread across 4,417 square feet, the three-bedroom home includes a collection of secret rooms, a formal drawing room, a sitting room with traditional Georgian panelling, four reception rooms and three bathrooms.

The mansion was built by Earl Winterton in the grounds of Shillinglee Park and was purchased by art dealer James Kirkman and his wife, who embarked on an extensive restoration of the property with the architect Duncan O’Kelly in 1984.

The home offers beautiful accommodation, with each floor having its own character, secret rooms and several fireplaces, as well as four turrets to retain a regal look.

The three-bedroom, three-bathroom abode also comes with four reception rooms along with 120 sprawling acres of land. The octagonal master bedroom is a particularly notable feature of the property, occupying an entire floor as well as offering spectacular views of the grounds. The property also has three outbuildings, one of which is used as a studio, with a shower room, kitchenette, living room and sleeping area, while another is used as garden storage, but was originally built as a double garage. The home offers breathtaking views of the South Downs scenery, as well as nearby lakes, woodlands and meadows.

The grounds also feature a barn, an Alitex greenhouse and beautiful gardens – including water features, ornate hedging, stunning sun terraces and a crenellated gazebo constructed to mirror the tower itself.

To access the property guests will travel through a private tree-lined avenue leading to a set of ornamental wrought iron gates and around to a parking area to the east. Chiddingfold is said to be one of the most desirable villages in the south of England and is known for its timber-framed Wealden houses and quaint cottages and surrounding countryside.

The village is known for its wide array of pubs, most notably the Swan Inn and the Crown Inn, which is believed to date back to the 13th Century. The property is currently being listed by Knight Frank for £6.25 million.