Centre stage Georgian villa was the birthplace of acclaimed actor
THE birth home of one of the 20th century’s most acclaimed actors, is on the market in Cheltenham. A beautifully restored detached Grade II listed, Georgian villa, this was the rather refined setting for Sir Ralph Richardson’s early years.
His name may escape the attention of a younger generation, but he was part of a triumvirate of actors, including Sir Laurence Olivier and Sir John Gielgud, who came to epitomise all that was brilliant on the British stage and screen.
He appeared in all-time favourite, Dr Zhivago, and was twice nominated for an Oscar, his last posthumously for his final film, Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes, in 1984.
It would be incorrect to say his life started modestly. Situated in the Tivoli area of the town, this is not a modest house by any stretch of the imagination.
His father, Arthur, was senior art master at Cheltenham Ladies’ College, when Ralph was born in 1902. Such grand domestic surroundings would have been fitting.
While he left Cheltenham at a young age, Sir Ralph’s name will be forever linked to the property through a distinctive blue British Heritage plaque.
Whilst its heritage is charming, today’s home is a sensitively restored and renovated Georgian four square home of absolute distinction.
If that was not enough, outside space is equally impressive. It is rare in the town to find a detached property of this architectural merit that also has a good sized plot, parking and parking on this exclusive road.
Ralph’s old home has more than enough ‘door step’ appeal. Stone steps rise up to the pillared entrance with panelled door that opens up to the reception vestibule and reception hall, with a fine cantilevered staircase rising to the first floor.
As with all Georgian architecture, the symmetry is pleasing, enhanced by tall sash hung windows to all elevations, high ceilings and a wonderful light and bright atmosphere. Off the reception hall is a drawing room - yes, a drawing room - which overlooks the street scene to the front and behind is the formal dining room.
This is a house that is packed with period detail, all elegant fireplaces and ceiling mouldings. and the room to the rear enjoys a lovely peaceful aspect over the garden. There is more than enough space here with a choice of reception rooms, bedrooms, ground floor apartment.
And, it is in Tivoli, a most attractive part of Cheltenham. Ralph should never have left for world-wide fame and glory.
On the market for £2,250,000 with Kingsley Evans Cheltenham as seen on Rightmove.