Boost of butlers in Britain
There has been a surge in the number of butlers in Britain in recent years following a rise in demand from the super-rich for live-in butler services. There are now around 10,000 butlers in the UK according to the International Guild of Professional Butlers, compared to a low of around 100 in the 1980s. In response to this, there is an increasing requirement in prime new-build property to include accommodation for live-in household staff. At Millgate’s newly launched High Warren development in Ashtead, Surrey, a collection of detached luxury homes come with separate annexe accommodation, ideal for a live-in butler.
High Warren offers five outstanding properties that cater perfectly to the top end of the market. Since its launch this spring, the development has proved highly successful, with 40% already sold, it has drawn strong interest from buyers including international families who want a luxurious base in easy reach of Central London.
Sales and Marketing Director for Millgate, Jonathan Cranley comments: “Call it the Downton effect, but there is noticeable trend among the super rich to employ live-in butler services. Professional butlers command a high salary and expect top quality living accommodation, which is something they would certainly get in the self-contained annexe included in most of the homes at High Warren. These properties are setting new standards for quality in Ashtead and we are pleased to see what a fantastic response they have had from high end buyers.”
The homes at High Warren all offer spacious living accommodation, each built with a bespoke design and meticulous attention to detail. Most of them include an annexe above the triple garage, which includes a private kitchen and bathroom that would give a butler all the privacy they require.
With traditionally inspired architecture, the homes at High Warren have a timeless and classical appeal and each is set within its own ample plot, offering privacy and security. The beautifully landscaped gardens include immaculate lawns, stylishly designed planting and large patios and terraces for dining and relaxing al fresco, while one of the properties has a private outdoor swimming pool with a pool house.
The hub of the home is sure to be the impressive ‘super room’ which incorporates a large kitchen, family room, dining area and a light-filled orangery with bi-fold doors leading out to the garden. There is also a formal drawing room and a study on the ground floor, while six bedrooms and a spacious games/media room occupy the first and second floors.
High Warren is designed to offer a lifestyle of outstanding modern luxury so the very best materials and specification are carefully chosen throughout. With a starring role at the centre of the super room, kitchens are top of the range featuring bespoke hand-painted units, granite worktops and curved oak breakfast bars. They are equipped with state of the art appliances including a WOLF range cooker, Miele steam oven and warming drawers, SUB ZERO fridge freezer and wine presentation unit and a double farmhouse sink.
High Warren is located in a quiet and leafy location at The Warren, Ashtead’s finest address. The village is picturesque and leafy, with a friendly and sociable community. There is plenty of choice in the area when it comes to leisure activities with the beautiful countryside of the North Downs all around. Nearby is the RAC Club at Woodcote Park, the out-of-London branch of the famous Pall Mall members club, offering two golf courses, as well as restaurants, spa and health club. The famous Epsom Downs racecourse is on the doorstep which hosts one of the world’s most famous races, ‘The Derby’ – a highlight of the sporting and social calendar.
Ashtead is ideally situated for transport links with direct rail connections to both London Waterloo and London Victoria in around 40 minutes. Situated within the M25, junction 9 is just a few moments away by car and Gatwick and Heathrow airports are both close by. Families are spoilt for choice when it comes to education - there are a wide range of excellent state and independent schools in and around Ashtead.
The homes at High Warren are on the market from £3.5 million. For further details, visit millgatehomes.co.uk.
