From 1964 to 1970, George Harrison, the legendary musician of The Beatles, and his wife, model Pattie Boyd, lived a relatively private life at Kinfauns, a large deluxe bungalow in Esher.

Purchased for £20,000 on the advice of one of The Beatles’ accountants, Kinfauns was their sanctuary during the height of Beatlemania.

While this price may seem modest today, it equates to over £400,000 in 2020, reflecting the value of their early investment.

However, by 1969, George and Pattie yearned for more privacy and space, prompting them to search for a new home away from the hustle and bustle of London.

 

George’s vision for their next home was clear: a secluded property set away from the road, offering privacy and the opportunity to build a personal recording studio.

Pattie took on the task of finding the perfect residence, exploring several options throughout 1969.

One notable prospect was Plumpton Place, an Elizabethan manor house in East Sussex.

Unfortunately, the owner was reluctant to sell to a pop star, and the estate eventually changed hands, ending up with Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin fame.

This house even featured in Led Zeppelin’s film *The Song Remains the Same*.

 

Pattie’s persistence paid off when she spotted a small classified advertisement in the Sunday Times for a house in Henley-on-Thames.

The property, Friar Park, was a large estate that had been used as a school.

Although the original asking price was £125,000—a considerable sum given that the average home in England cost around £10,000 at the time—George immediately loved it when he saw it with Pattie and their friend Terry Doran.

He quickly made an offer of £120,000 but eventually paid £140,000, equivalent to approximately £2. 4 million today.

 

In March 1970, George and Pattie moved into Friar Park, filled with enthusiasm and determination.

Unlike many celebrities who might have chosen a modern mansion or built a custom home, George and Pattie embraced the challenge of restoring this historic estate.

Friar Park was no ordinary house; it was an imaginative masterpiece created nearly a century earlier by Sir Frank Crisp, whose eccentric vision included elaborate gardens, hidden grottoes, and whimsical architectural details.

 

Rather than opting for a carefree, jet-setting lifestyle, George and Pattie chose to invest their time, energy, and resources into rescuing Friar Park from neglect.

Their decision reflected not only their courage but also a deep appreciation for history, art, and nature.

They embarked on a hero’s journey to bring the estate back to its former glory, turning it into a magical home filled with creativity and love.

 

The restoration process was extensive and meticulous.

George and Pattie began by researching Friar Park’s history and making detailed plans to restore the house, lodges, and gardens.

They hired renowned garden designer Beth Chatto to assist with planning the botanical species that would thrive around the estate’s lakes and grounds.

Over time, George employed at least eight gardeners to maintain the sprawling property.

 

To help manage the estate, George invited the families of three Krishna devotees to live on the grounds, reflecting his spiritual beliefs and commitment to community.

His brother Harry also moved into the lower lodge with his family to oversee daily operations.

Trusted friends like Terry Doran and Chris O’Dell, who was hired away from Apple Records to work directly for George, were invited to live at Friar Park, creating a close-knit household.

 

Inside the house, Pattie devoted four and a half years to making it a comfortable and welcoming home.

She hired interior decorator David Mlenarek and artist Larry Smart, who painted illusions, mandalas, and 3D designs on some of the walls, adding a mystical and artistic touch to the interiors.

Pattie also refurbished furniture, including sofas she re-sprung and re-upholstered, sourced from local shops like the Furniture Cave on Lots Road.

One of George’s most significant contributions to Friar Park was the installation of a state-of-the-art 16-track tape-based recording studio on the second floor.

From this studio, George created some of his most memorable music, surrounded by the peaceful and inspiring views through the windows.

The magic of music filled the mansion, blending seamlessly with the estate’s enchanting atmosphere.

 

Friar Park became a sanctuary for George and Pattie, a place where creativity, spirituality, and nature converged.

Their commitment to restoring and living in this historic home symbolized their desire to build a meaningful life beyond fame and fortune.

 

From the outside, life at Friar Park appeared idyllic, like a fairy tale come to life.

The grand estate, the artistic interiors, and the lush gardens painted a picture of happiness and fulfillment.

However, as history often shows, appearances can be deceiving.

Despite the enchanting surroundings, the couple faced personal challenges that would eventually alter their lives.

In 1974, with George’s blessing, Pattie began a romantic relationship with their mutual friend Eric Clapton, who had long been in love with her.

This new chapter marked the end of Pattie’s life at Friar Park and the beginning of a different journey.

She moved to Clapton’s home, Hardwood Edge Lodge, an Italian villa-style country house in Surrey known for its beautiful gardens designed by the legendary British horticulturalist Gertrude Jekyll.

 

Pattie’s departure from Friar Park was bittersweet.

While she left behind the estate she had helped restore, she carried with her memories of a unique and transformative period in her life.

George and Pattie’s time at Friar Park remains a testament to their shared vision, creativity, and dedication.

 

The story of Friar Park is more than just a tale of restoration; it is a reflection of the complexities of relationships, the pursuit of dreams, and the intertwining of art, music, and nature.

George Harrison and Pattie Boyd’s journey at Friar Park embodies the spirit of adventure and resilience, showing how two individuals used their gifts to create something truly extraordinary.

Friar Park stands today as a symbol of George Harrison and Pattie Boyd’s love, creativity, and commitment.

Their story reveals the hidden depths behind the glamour of celebrity life and the power of dedication to a shared vision.

From a neglected estate to a magical home filled with music and art, Friar Park remains a lasting legacy of one of rock music’s most iconic couples.

 

Though their relationship eventually changed, the time George and Pattie spent at Friar Park continues to inspire fans and historians alike.

It reminds us that behind every great story are moments of courage, transformation, and the relentless pursuit of beauty and meaning.

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