A Former WWII M16 Spy Post Re-Emerges As A Ultra-Modern Mansion

A pocket of leafy suburban London that once held a secret, wartime intelligence base with bullet-proof doors and windows, and wireless transmitters on the roof, is now a newly built luxury home.

Set in the village of Arkley in North London, Rowley Ridge, as it’s known, spans 1020 square metres and hit the market in April for £8.5 million (A$15.4 million) with estate agency Beauchamp Estates.

During World War II, the site of Rowley Ridge—then an Edwardian villa—was selected by British Prime Minister Winston Churchill as one of a handful of detached country houses to be a clandestine listening post base used by M16 to spy on German signals, intercept illicit wireless messages and support the code-breaking taking place at the famed Bletchley Park, according to a news release from the brokerage.

Set 134-metres above sea level, Arkley was chosen by Churchill for its advantageous altitude—conductive for capturing radio transmissions.

“As a local resident I am naturally biased, but I truly believe that Arkley is a true leafy oasis,” Jeremy Gee, managing director of Beauchamp Estates said in the release.

It’s “one of London’s most exclusive enclaves, bordered by both greenbelt countryside and the private golf course, yet only nine miles from London’s West End,” he said. Arkley’s hidden role as a World War II M16 base adds the excitement and glamour of the secret services, spies and gadgets.”

Now the six-bedroom family-home, developed by Domvs London—is loaded with very different amenities than it would have housed some 80 years ago.

There’s a three-story atrium, a main reception room with a lounge area, drawing room area and dining area, a custom-designed kitchen, a main bedroom suite with a private balcony and views across the nearby private golf course, according to the release.

On the basement level is a soundproof cinema room with a cocktail bar, a game room, a swimming pool, a steam room and a gym. There’s also a panic room and a biometric entry system.

A sanctuary of modern design and craftsmanship, this stunning north-facing family home in Dover Heights sets a new benchmark for luxury coastal living. Perched on a sun-drenched 563sqm block, the newly renovated residence combines elegance with functionality, making it the ultimate entertainer’s retreat.

Designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living, the open-plan living and dining areas lead out to a sunlit alfresco zone with a swimming pool. “It’s where we spend most of our time, whether we’re hosting friends or relaxing with family,” says the owner. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors maximise the natural light and offer views of the beautifully landscaped backyard.

At the heart of the home is a gourmet kitchen equipped with premium Bosch and Siemens appliances, including two 900mm ovens, two dishwashers, and a gas wok with dual extraction fans.

Upstairs, the four spacious bedrooms offer plenty of privacy. The master suite is a true retreat with a luxurious ensuite and custom-built wardrobes. Two other bedrooms feature their own ensuites, while a home office and gym complete the upper level. Convenience is key, with lift access to both floors, a remote-controlled garage with internal access, and off-street parking for three cars.

The home is packed with modern features like Daikin ducted air-conditioning with room-specific controls, rain-sensor skylights and CCTV. Sustainability is also a priority, with 48 solar roof panels and a Tesla 2.5kw solar edge inverter reducing the home’s environmental impact.

Located a short stroll from Rodney Reserve and local favourite Archies Café Co., the house is close to prestigious schools, Rose Bay village, and the iconic Bondi Beach. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and tranquillity, offering a family-friendly neighbourhood while being just minutes away from Sydney’s finest attractions.

With its timeless Hampton-style aesthetic and modern amenities, 60 Blake Street is more than just a home—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening by the pool, every inch of this property has been thoughtfully designed for comfort and luxury.

Raine and Horne Double Bay

A Former WWII M16 Spy Post Re-Emerges As A Ultra-Modern Mansion

The newly developed six-bedroom home in North London has hit the market.

This renovated Hampton-style home offers luxury living and seamless indoor-outdoor entertaining in a prime coastal location.