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A unique cottage with a fascinating history has recently been let by Darwoods Lettings - part of the Leaders Group - in St Albans.

Nell Gwynn Cottage is situated in the original grounds of Salisbury Hall which was built in 1507. In 1668 Salisbury Hall was bought by a friend of King Charles II - reportedly with the King’s money - to provide him with a remote and private place to spend time with his mistress Nell Gwynn, whose association with Salisbury Hall is commemorated in the name of this lovely cottage.

It is said that Nell Gwynn, concerned for the future of one of her and Charles’s children after he refused the boy a title, dangled the child out of the window of the cottage over the moat. She threatened to drop him until Charles called out “Pray, spare the Duke of St Albans!”

The cottage has had a number of uses over the years, including one which gives it a further royal connection. It became a silk factory in the 1950’s, and it was here that the silk for the coronation robes and wedding dress of Queen Elizabeth II was produced.

In latter years the cottage has been a residential property and rented out. It recently became available for re-let through St Albans’s leading letting specialists, Darwoods.

Naturally there was a lot of interest in the property, not only because of its rich history, but because of its stunning setting and many unique features, which include:

• Its own moat

• A sunny patio overlooking the moat

• Large mature gardens

• A wealth of exposed beams

• Vaulted ceiling in master bedroom

• Feature fireplaces

• Views of the moat and the woods beyond

For advice and information on renting or letting in St Albans please contact Darwoods on 01727 862999 or email lettings@darwoods.com

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