Journal

The leaves have fallen and there’s a chill in the air: yes, winter is surely upon us. At this time of year, following a crisp country walk or festive activities in the city, there’s no place we’d rather be than curled up at home. After all, ’tis the season for interiors that are sleek and snug – think stylish snowy colours, luxurious materials and burning fires. In need of inspiration? Here are five properties on the market that strike the right balance between cosy and chic, from a red-brick Mayfair mansion to a modern Marylebone apartment.

It’s December and the holiday season is in full swing. Tis’ the season for cinnamon-infused mulled wine, cosy family gatherings by the fire and jovial end-of-year celebrations. Naturally, there are a whole host of fabulous convivial happenings taking place across the UK this month – and we’re spreading festive cheer by sharing five of our favourites, from a fantastical opera to a jolly afternoon tea at a Mayfair hotel.

Here at United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty, we believe there are few things in life as awe-inspiring as exceptionally designed homes. We are proud, then, to showcase and sell some of the most remarkable examples of contemporary architecture across the UK. From an extraordinary light-filled house in North Kensington to a show-stopping apartment in Battersea Power Station, here are five of our most beautifully conceived properties currently on the market.

London is a melting pot of creativity and for centuries has attracted artists, writers and musicians. Whether an artist hails from the capital city or was inspired by the ancient streets, the best art shows and exhibitions are drawn to London, which has some of the oldest museums and art galleries in the world.

“More is more!” So goes the motto maximalists swear by. When it comes to interiors, this means decadently decorated spaces in which painterly prints, plush fabrics and a riot of colours reign supreme. From a Grade I-listed mansion in Hertfordshire to a gorgeous Georgian townhouse by Hyde Park, these five properties provide masterclasses in maximalism for the most discerning aesthetes. Chintz wallpaper at the ready…

Autumn is arguably the most beautiful time of the year in the UK; the leaves are changing colour and the nights are drawing in, yet before the temperature really drops, it is still possible to spend time outside. Whether it be by train or car there is ample opportunity to explore the UK and we’ve rounded up some of the best day trips that are all a short distance from London.

With the sheer volume of historical and cultural venues situated along the streets of Prime Central London, it can be hard to stand out. Luckily this isn’t a problem for an institution as revered as theNational History Museum. Defined by its grand Gothic architecture that pays tribute to the natural world, this iconic building is beloved for its collection of more than 80 million fascinating objects.

As temperatures have dropped and the summer activities of picnics, long walks in the park and outdoor swimming are no longer an option, the change of season means a change of past times on the British Isles. Here we’ve rounded up the perfect activities that can be enjoyed whatever the weather. 

Picture yourself in a forest, surrounded only by the sights and sounds of nature. The rustling of leaves in the wind. Gentle birdsong. Water languidly flowing over rocks. No phone calls, no text messages, nothing that demands your immediate attention and distracts from your innermost thoughts.

Windsor Castle was built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror and designed to be a fortress that would help keep England safe from invaders. It was first used as a Royal residence by King Henry I in the early 1100s and is now considered to be Europe’s longest-occupied palace. It is also a popular entertainment venue today, hosting events such as weddings, state visits and national celebrations. We delve into the unique features of this icon of British Royal culture. 

One of the many reasons London often tops the list of the most desirable cities to live in the world is due to its rich history and grand architecture. Nowhere embodies this more than its leafy squares, dotted throughout the city, its oldest almost 500 years old. Houses were traditionally built around these patches of grass to bring a slice of the countryside to the capital, and to this day, having a property on a square is incredibly sought after.