The most-viewed homes of 2023

When the year comes to a close, we love to look back at the homes that have captivated the nation in the biggest way over the last 12 months.

Our property expert, Tim Bannister, says: “Home-hunters have taken a look inside some of the grandest homes on the market during their search this year, with unique features ranging from a home gym and swimming pool, to a library and even a temperature controlled wine cellar.”

Spread across the nation, take a peek inside some of the homes we’ve looked at the most over the course of the year.

1. A 7-bedroom home set in incredible grounds

A jaw-dropping Arts and Crafts-style house built just 15 years ago, Shenstone House is found on the edge of a picturesque village in Warwickshire. Set within 16 sprawling acres, the main house is encircled by private woodland, along with a large pond, a manicured topiary maze, impressive water feature and a thriving walled garden.

2. A stunning seaside home in Ayrshire

Offering spellbinding views over the ocean, this 6-bedroom home offers the ultimate tranquil retreat in the north of Scotland. The house comes with its own gym and built-in sauna, while the glass-fronted extension – offering yet more sea vistas – is a light-flooded space, filled with clean lines and a glossy slate-tiled floor.

3. A Grade I-listed mansion with jaw-dropping interiors and grounds

Set in over 40 acres, this truly incredible home is found on the edge of the village of Denham in Buckinghamshire. The 12-bedroom main house has been called home by a lengthy list of notable figures, as well as big-screen royalty. With the original build of the main house dating back as far as the late 17^th century, Denham Place’s recent 8-year renovation project has seen it transformed into the truly incredible home seen today.

4. A majestic Gothic house in the Devon countryside

Found on the fringes of Exeter, this 12-bedroom home was revived by architect William White in the 1860s. Modern design accents are blended with incredible original features, including ornate stained glass, wood carvings, stonework and tiles. Towering windows flood light onto the interior living space, while outside there are over 30 acres of grounds to explore.

5. An impressive Victorian villa set in the grounds of Eltham Palace

Found within the grounds of the Art Deco wonder that is Eltham Palace, Mittisfont Hall is a spellbinding Victorian villa decorated with incredible attention to detail. Restored the hand of the current architect owners, notable features include mosaic-tiled floors, a blissful glass-floored orangery and a built-in sauna. Towering windows look out onto the expansive lawns, and there is a floating spiral staircase leading down the snooker room, wine cellar and gym.

6. A castle in Newcastle upon Tyne

Set within 32-acres of formal gardens, Otterburn Castle is encircled by a picturesque backdrop of mature woodland and parkland. Found within the Northumberland National Park and close to Hadrian’s Wall, the home retains many of its historic fittings and striking architectural details, including stone-mullioned windows, oak wall panelling, magnificent fireplaces, and intricate plasterwork.

7. An apartment in St Pancras Chambers

A unique home in St. Pancras Chambers, this penthouse property is found within what’s arguably one of the most recognisable gothic buildings in the world. The build was completed in 1873, and now houses a world-class hotel, a private members club, gym and spa, with the main train station and access to the heart of Paris right on its doorstep.

8. An luxurious detached home in Newcastle upon Tyne

This luxury home sits within the Darras Hall Estate, and has undergone a showstopping transformation at the hand of the current owners. Just some of its standout features include a triple car garage, its own cinema room and gym, and another independent flat above the home.

9. A Grade II-listed manor house in Cheshire

This beautiful manor residence has been recently renovated and extended, but retains many of its original period features. The home is spread across around 28.5 acres, and comes with an outdoor swimming pool, tennis court and exquisite landscaped gardens (plus views of Jodrell Bank), while indoors you’ll find a billiard room with hidden bar, gym, library and wine cellar.

10. The ultimate retreat in the Lake District

Found in the heart of the Lake District close to the bustling town of Ambleside, this 5-bedroom home offers spellbinding views over the neighbouring countryside. Original features have been sensitively restored, seamlessly blended with modern design features. The home also offers the ultimate private retreat, set on its own within over three acres of land.