Titter ye not — Frankie Howerd's Kensington townhouse is for sale, and it's a beautiful home in an iconic London square
The comedian Frankie Howerd was a household name for decades in Britain, and his London home — a five-bed Georgian townhouse — at the heart of Kensington’s 'most sought-after private garden square’ is now up for sale.

With a grass tennis court, mature leafy trees, maintained gardens and lawns, plus a children’s play area, it’s no wonder Edwardes Square is considered one of London's finest private squares. It’s a green oasis in the heart of the metropolis.
Naturally, properties with access to such magical outdoor space in London are highly desirable — and the price often reflects that, particularly as in the case of today's property: an Edwardes Square townhouse with five beds and accommodation spanning four floors, currently on the market via Knight Frank with a guide price of £5.95 million.
As well as its own delights, this house has a celebrity past: the comedian and actor Frankie Howerd lived at the property for over 25 years. His career spanned six decades, becoming a household name for his roles in the Carry On films and, unforgettably, the Roman spoof Up Pompeii. Nobody has ever quite been able to deliver a double entendre in quite the same way ever since.
There's even a blue plaque outside the front door — erected by The Dead Comic’s Society — which serves as a reminder of his time spent in this wonderful home.
Inside on the ground floor, the accommodation is elegantly presented, with parquet flooring and sash windows in the reception room and a beautifully sleek kitchen with large roof lights, long island and double doors that open up to the terraced garden.
That's right, a private garden: as pretty as the gardens across the street are, there will be times when you don't to share them with your fellow residents. It's a secluded — and secure — outdoor space that is perfect for al fresco meals, a green haven enveloped by shrubs, flowers and trees.
On the lower ground floor, you’ll find a store room, enclosed patio area, a sitting room/study and utility.
Sign up for the Country Life Newsletter
Exquisite houses, the beauty of Nature, and how to get the most from your life, straight to your inbox.
The five double bedrooms are located over the first and second floors, with the master suite benefitting from a large ensuite bathroom and two Juliette balconies.
Large windows are a common feature throughout, ensuring that natural light floods the internal spaces.
At the heart of the Georgian square is the Grade II listed communal garden. At the time of its creation, it was considered ‘unusual’ in its style, with JC Loudon commenting that ‘Edwardes Square gardens were laid out in a manner different from most other squares…in groups and winding walks.’
Much remains unchanged today, with winding paths and a beautiful rose arbour. There’s also a garden lodge — built in the style of a Greek Temple — where the (lucky) gardener lives.
The property is located behind Kensington High Street, meaning a variety of shops, restaurants and cafes are practically on your doorstep. Holland Park is just a few minutes’ walk down the road and the nearest tube stations are at High Street Kensington (District and Circle lines) and Earls Court Road (District and Piccadilly lines).
Edwardes Square is currently on the market via Knight Frank with a guide price of £5.95 million — see more pictures or enquire with the agent for further details.
-
Film star, resistance fighter and civil rights activist: The life and times of Josephine Baker, 50 years on from her death
Josephine Baker was an American-born actress and dancer, who would go on to take France by storm and become one of Europe’s highest-paid performers. She also happened to be a Second World War spy.
By Amy Serafin Published
-
Sir Edwin Lutyens and the architecture of the biggest bank in the world
Sir Edwin Lutyens became the de facto architect of one of Britain's biggest financial institutions, Midland Bank — then the biggest bank in the world, and now part of the HSBC. Clive Aslet looks at how it came about through his connection with Reginald McKenna.
By Clive Aslet Published
-
The treehouse of your dreams is for sale, and it even comes with a country house
The only thing more impressive than the treehouse at Springfield House are the recently re-designed interiors.
By James Fisher Published
-
Harts House: A home straight out of a fairytale for sale in Kent
We try not to use cliché too often, but sometimes only cliché will do.
By James Fisher Published
-
In search of Arcadia at Ayot Bury, the Georgian home and estate that's 30 minutes from central London
With 40 acres and glorious gardens, Ayot Bury might be the perfect country home for those looking for the best of both worlds.
By Arabella Youens Published
-
The most expensive postcodes outside of London have been revealed
Some are not so surprising. Some are quite surprising. Most are still quite close to London. All are costly.
By Annabel Dixon Published
-
A £1.5 million flat on the street where wig and pen once met
It doesn't get more central London than Fleet Street.
By James Fisher Published
-
A spectacular coastal estate in Dorset set on its own private peninsula
This 160-acre estate is part nature reserve and part country home, with a beautiful Arts-and-Crafts home at its heart.
By Arabella Youens Last updated
-
A converted bothy on the shores of Loch Tay from which to enjoy the fresh tastes of Spring
Waterfall Cottage offers four bedrooms and a garden that stretches right down to the lapping waters.
By James Fisher Published
-
An idyllic home in Hampshire that's perfect for the musical mind
Lyewood House sits in 3.5 acres and comes with a purpose built recording studio and an outdoor heated pool.
By Arabella Youens Published