Set upon two private islands, and said to have inspired Kenneth Grahame’s much-loved children’s classic, The Wind in the Willows, there are few properties on the market right now that are as remarkable as The Islands. Reached via a private bridge, the six-bedroom property not only marries Victorian charm with Art Deco touches, but also offers highly sought-after private mooring piles and exclusive fishing rights – a rare and unique privilege for any Thameside residence.

It exudes an almost cinematic sense of seclusion, where gardens wind towards the water’s edge and every view is peppered by the gleam of the river beyond. Retaining period features throughout, entry to the home is an oak-panelled reception hall reminiscent of a grand Scottish hunting lodge while an open fireplace, stained glass window and panelled ceiling all adding to the sense of occasion and grandeur.

Wearing its history like a badge of honour, the drawing and dining rooms, situated in the oldest part of the house, are interlinked by oak-faced double doors and framed by exposed beams, decorative pillars and open fireplaces. The intimate study is located by the front door and offers a tranquil sanctuary overlooking the river: bathed in sunlight from a large picture window and overhead skylight, it can be a place of relaxation, inspiration or concentration. 

On the first floor of the main house, the charming four bedrooms unfold beneath gentle eaves. The principal suite is especially enchanting, benefitting from a balcony overlooking the river, just off the dressing room. Art Deco touches can be found within the carved wooden fireplace and marble hearth, while large bay windows across the river-facing rooms flood the home with sunshine. The rest of the level boasts an ensuite bedroom, a turreted vanity nook and a generous family bathroom.

Beyond the main house lies a cottage within the grounds, currently configured as a double garage with an adjoining studio and sitting room that opens onto a terrace overlooking the river. However, venture further the true stand-out feature of The Islands: the riverside gardens, that hum with wildlife and colour. 

The land here flows into croquet lawns, a paddock, orchards and a flower garden, while the heated pool and pool house are ideally located for long, lazy summer afternoons. Three fairytale-like bridges connect the two islands, two of them hidden among the trees, leading to more secluded gardens which hide all manner of statues tucked between hedges, and pathways lined with palms, figs, bamboo and bursts of tropical planting. This stretch of river still hosts the traditional Swan Upping each summer, while muntjac deer, families of swans, red kites and migrating geese are also among the island’s regular visitors.

The nearby village of Cookham is home to independent shops, historic pubs and the celebrated Bel and The Dragon restaurant, while the charming towns of Marlow and Henley-on-Thames are just a short drive away. Maidenhead train station offers fast links into London Paddington, placing this secluded island retreat within easy reach of the city.

Katya Zenkovich, senior sales director at UK Sotheby’s International Realty, says: “The Islands are a living story – where English literary heritage, natural beauty and complete privacy meet on the Thames’ most enchanting stretch of river.”

Listed for £4,450,000, visit sothebysrealty.co.uk

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