At the end of a winding, forested drive, accessed via a modest residential lane in Umtentweni on KZN’s lower south coast, lies an historical gem built circa 1897.
Known as Royston Hall and situated on the north bank of the Umzimkulu River, the house is set in its own private nature reserve of 5895 m² in extent. This peaceful 900 m2 Victorian manor house is registered with the National Monuments Council. The property offers 7 double en suite bedrooms and no fewer than 5 fireplaces, and is now on the market with Seeff Amanzimtoti at R8.9m. This price includes the vintage furnishings and fittings.
Says Gavin Parkins of Seeff Amanzimtoti: “This home is truly something special, and comes complete with a train tunnel running under it and a fascinating history which includes Brigadier General R.J. Royston (29 April 1860 – 25 April 1942), a South African-born military hero.
“The river and tall forests may be viewed from the wrap-around verandas and suites. The house includes a library, three lounges, 122-year-old Oregon pine floors and architraved doors, two wooden staircases and tall sash windows in lofty rooms with 4.4m high ceilings.
“There is a large pool in front of the house, with panoramic views of the surrounding forests and river, and the Indian Ocean in the distance. It is the ideal place to relax and unwind, and is of course extremely private. Bird life is prolific, with 208 noted species. There is plenty of private parking and 1 km of river frontage; the swimming beach is 2.2 km from the house.
“While it has real guesthouse or boutique hotel potential, and has been run as a guest house, this sale is of the house and contents only and excludes any business operations. The reluctant sellers wish to downsize, and it is time for another family to become a part of this remarkable home's history.”
Contact Seeff Amanzimtoti Gavin Parkins on 082 624 2521 or 031 903 1234, email gavin.parkins@seeff.com.
Author: Leverne Gething, 09 April 2019, Historical Listing