While her nickname, The Iron Lady, may suggest that she would reside in a fortress or castle after she resigned as prime minister, Margaret Thatcher actually lived at an unassuming townhouse in London’s historic Westminster area. Close to pivotal sites like Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey, the Great College Street abode was an ideal place for the high-profile figure to stay. Now, over 30 years later, you can also call the townhouse home if you have £3.65 million to spend.
Lord Alistair McAlpine, the Conservative party’s treasurer for 15 years, was the home’s owner from 1984 to 1993. As a loyal ally of the prime minister, it was only natural that McAlpine would offer his house to Thatcher as a refuge after her fall from power in 1990. A PR rep for DEXTERS, the agency representing the listing now, shared, “Despite owning a house opposite Dulwich Park in South London, Thatcher preferred to stay close to the British epicentre of political power.” Thatcher left by the end of the year, however, then stayed in Belgravia for a stint.
As well as lending his five-bedroom home to the world-famous political powerhouse, McAlpine often hosted important guests here and it wasn’t unusual for the home to be filled with people on election nights. Its 2,176 square feet of living space and quaint garden patio are still apt for graceful hosting, though the new owner should likely have an appreciation for traditional style.
Built between 1720 and 1722, the Georgian house has good bones and dashing design details. Stately fireplaces, bold woodwork, and formal rooms are defining elements of the interiors, giving off a cozy yet elegant feel. Though charming, some spaces could be ready for a refresh. The galley kitchen, for example, might not suit avid entertainers who crave a center island. But, that would be easy to remedy with a bit of vision, effort, and care.