November 4th 2024.
Imagine moving into a new house and wondering about the people who used to live there. Their stories, their passions, and how they spent their time within those very walls. Well, there's a stunning house in South London that leaves no question as to who its previous owner was. This £995,000 property in Croydon was once home to none other than the iconic British star, Peter Cushing.
For those who may not know, Peter Cushing is a legendary figure in the world of cinema, most notably known for his role as Grand Moff Tarkin in the Star Wars franchise. He was a versatile actor who appeared in over 100 films, including classics like The Revenge of Frankenstein, The Hound of the Baskervilles, and Dracula. Even today, 30 years after his passing, Peter's legacy is celebrated with a memorial at 32 St James' Road in Purley, Croydon. In fact, the property was awarded a Blue Plaque status in 2018, as it was the very house where Peter grew up and attended school.
Built in the 1920s, the house has a stunning art deco interior that has been lovingly maintained by its current owners. As you step inside, you'll notice the original white, slatted windows with curved edges that add a touch of vintage charm to the home. The owners have taken great care to decorate the house in a style that is in keeping with the era it was built in, with dark wooden furniture and colorful artwork adorning the walls.
One of the standout features of this property is the main double reception room, with its classic bay windows and period fireplace. It's easy to imagine Peter himself sitting by the fireplace, perhaps rehearsing lines for one of his many film roles. The living room truly is the heart of this 1920s home, and it has retained its original fireplace, adding to its charm and character.
It's not just the interior of the house that has a touch of nostalgia. The sprawling garden has also been maintained in line with the Cushing family's use of it as a tennis court. The neatly arranged lawn, with its long, green stripes, is a nod to the past and adds to the overall allure of the property.
Of course, a property of this caliber comes with a hefty price tag and falls under council tax band G, with an annual fee of £3,944.85. This is significantly higher than the national average, but it's a small price to pay for the opportunity to own a piece of Croydon's history. The area is still proud of its connection to Peter Cushing, as demonstrated by the Open House event hosted by Culture Croydon in 2023.
It's worth noting that this house has been saved from both decay and demolition twice in its history. The current owners have gone to great lengths to sympathetically restore the property, preserving as many original features as possible. In fact, the house has retained the same layout since it was built, and even the servants' bell, which Peter himself wrote about in his biography, has been carefully maintained.
Speaking of Peter's biography, it's clear that his childhood home held a special place in his heart. He fondly recalled memories of the house, including the servants' bell, in great detail. It's no wonder that the current owners feel privileged to live in a house that was once home to such a legendary figure. When it came to redecorating, they made sure to preserve as many elements of the house as possible, knowing that Peter himself had touched that doorknob and walked on those steps.
Peter Cushing is not the only famous face to come out of Croydon. The borough has produced many notable figures, including illusionist Derren Brown, who, like Peter, grew up in Purley. Comedian and actor Noel Fielding, known for his role in The Mighty Boosh, also hails from Croydon, as does fellow comedian Nish Kumar. Even supermodel Kate Moss has ties to the area, having been photographed at her old school, Riddlesdown Collegiate, for British Vogue.
It's clear that Croydon has a rich history and is home to many talented individuals. And for those lucky enough to own the house at 32 St James' Road, they can take pride in knowing that it was once home to one of Britain's most beloved stars. A house that not only holds a special place in Peter Cushing's heart, but in the hearts of those who call Croydon home.
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