Page-turning homes with incredible libraries
As Cheltenham Literature Festival kicks off, read up on these homes with the perfect spaces to curl up with a good book
This October Cheltenham Literature Festival marks its 75th year, holding its place as the longest-running literature festival in the world. As it reaches this landmark anniversary, its continued success is a testament to our love of the written word in all its forms, whether delving into the classics or discovering the most exciting up-and-coming new voices.
As well as offering a source of escapism from our everyday lives, reading has been shown to bring a plethora of perks ranging from easing stress to improving our cognitive and emotional health. And what better way to tap into these restorative and relaxing benefits than cosying up at home with a good book in the comfort of your own library.
Here we take a look at the homes with libraries available with Knight Frank that are not only beautiful, but book smart too.
7 bedroom house, Dartmouth, Devon TQ6
Dating back to 1867, Riversea comes with an intriguing royal pedigree, including visits from Albert, Prince of Wales, and the granting by Royal Warrant of the rights to the Riversea foreshore. After a brief stretch as a hotel it is now a versatile family home, comprehensively rebuilt to incorporate the latest mod cons and take full advantage of its incredible waterfront positioning.
The chic library offers ample space for even the most dedicated of bibliophiles. A peaceful retreat in the winter, in the warmer months grab your favourite tome and head out to the terrace or balcony to enjoy with the gentle sounds of the River Dart as a backdrop.
5-6 bedroom house, Holland Street, London
This unique offering brings together a Georgian townhouse, located on one of Kensington’s oldest residential terraces, with a further modern mews house connected via the courtyard garden.
The former has been sympathetically restored to bring a contemporary spirit to its characterful style, with plentiful living spaces including a drawing room, study/library and interconnected sitting room, kitchen and dining room. This is bolstered by the secondary house, featuring a further large media room/library and open-plan entertaining space.
4 bedroom house, Midhurst, West Sussex GU29
As the name suggests, the Blotting House was once part of the Iping paper mill, the warehouse where the blotting paper was stored. It is thought to have undergone its conversion into a family home in the 1980s, lending it a high quality and modern finish mixed with heritage charm.
Fittingly it hosts a library, featuring generous shelving space while being large enough to double up as a playroom or study. Unwind here, or take to the living room to sit by the fireplace with a good book in hand.
7-8 bedroom house, Forres Street, Edinburgh, EH3
From Robert Louis Stevenson to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Edinburgh has been home to many of history’s most notable writers - so much so that it was named the first UNESCO City of Literature. Located in the prestigious New Town, this exceptional Georgian townhouse is the perfect address from which to enjoy the city’s rich heritage.
The airy and light drawing room is the ideal setting to sink into a novel from one of the greats, with generous book shelving and seating. As in the rest of the house, original features have been lovingly maintained while adding a lively and eclectic atmosphere throughout.
6 bedroom house, Timsbury, Bath BA2
This renovated country house is set in 14.83 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds and lush woodland just 9 miles from Bath, whose literary residents have famously included Jane Austen.
A counterpoint to the grandly proportioned living spaces, at the heart of which is the statement bespoke kitchen by Tom Howley, is the more intimate study/library. It provides the perfect secluded spot to settle down with a page-turner in this most serene of surroundings.
