The seven-bedroom house, which features Freddie Mercury’s personal artistic touches, is back on the market after 46 years.
In 1978, Garden Lodge was advertised in Country Life magazine by Chestertons for more than £300,000. The prominent Queen frontman, Freddie Mercury, who had just released hits like “We Will Rock You” and “We Are The Champions,” purchased the property without hesitation. Now, after the successful auction of the home’s contents last year, the property is listed by Knight Frank for over £30 million. Interested buyers need to contact the agent directly as there’s no online listing yet.
Even considering inflation, the 1978 sale price of £300,000 (about £1.67 million today) for a seven-bedroom home in Kensington seems like a bargain compared to the current value. Back then, it was already significantly more expensive than the average UK home, and now, its value exceeds the average home by more than 110 times. This dramatic increase reflects changes in the super-prime London property market and the home’s extensive renovations and historical significance as a rock legend’s residence.
Since Freddie Mercury’s purchase, the property hasn’t been sold. He left it to Mary Austin, who has preserved it for 30 years following his death in 1991. She now wishes to pass on the beloved home, which she describes as a “glorious memory box” full of love and warmth, to a new owner.
Garden Lodge, first built in 1907, was transformed by Mercury and designer Robin Moore Ede during the 1980s, reflecting Mercury’s distinctive style and accommodating his collection of art and objects. The house still retains many features from Mercury’s time, including the studio where he wrote “Bohemian Rhapsody,” and decorations reflecting his upbringing in Zanzibar and India.
Paddy Dring from Knight Frank suggests that the sale of Garden Lodge presents a unique opportunity to own both a significant property and a piece of cultural history. The property’s legacy and careful preservation make it especially attractive to international buyers.
Garden Lodge is available for purchase through Knight Frank, with offers expected to exceed £30 million.
