Inside latest Omaze mansion that was once UK's most 'expensive council' house (2025)

You can win this £4.5m house mortgage-free in the latest Omaze prize draw

A mansion that is up for grabs in the latest Omaze prize draw was once dubbed the UK's 'most expensive' council house. This colossal five-storey property in Borough, London, is now worth a staggering £4.5 million, but one lucky winner could own it for just £10.

Built in 1820, the house was initially part of the Anchor Brewery, owned by the brewer Courage, and housed its executives before the brewery was replaced by housing developments in the 1980s.

By 1986, the property turned into council housing, and Southwark Council later decided to sell it off when it became vacant due to its high value.

In 2013, the Grade II listed building was considered to be the UK's priciest council house, anticipated to bring in £2.3 million when it was put up for auction by the council.

Fast forward ten years, and another London council house claimed the record with a £3.5 million market price.

As part of Omaze's latest giveaway, this stunning house which offers views of The Shard, will be given away mortgage-free, with all stamp duty and legal fees paid for.

The fortunate new owner will also be gifted £250,000 in cash, which could assist with moving in or potentially renting out the property.

Rich with history, the house still bears a 'Take Courage' sign on its brick exterior from its days linked to the former Anchor Brewery.

Omaze estimates that if the lucky winner decides to keep the property, the £250,000 would cover the running costs of the house for nearly a decade. The house also comes fully furnished with £150,000 worth of items, ready for the winner to enjoy from day one.

If the winner chooses to rent it out, local estate agents estimate that the property could fetch a long-term rental value of between £8,000 - £10,000 per month.

The charming four-bedroom townhouse boasts its own unique style and a prestigious postcode, just a stone's throw away from popular London hotspots such as the Tate Modern, Borough Market and the South Bank.

Upon arrival, the winner will be welcomed by two entrances leading to a Bisazza-tiled ground floor, featuring a handcrafted, bespoke eat-in kitchen equipped with high-end appliances like a Rangemaster cooker, integrated fridge freezer and an instant boiling water tap.

The interior beautifully blends original period features with modern design elements, including a steel-framed sun room extension that offers views of the stunning garden.

There is a formal dining room with sculptural lighting and open doorways, along with original sash windows that bathe the room in sunlight in the morning and cast a warm golden glow in the evening.

On the first floor, there is a traditional Georgian reception room, plus another family lounge.

Three bedrooms are located on the upper floors, offering breathtaking views of London's skyline, while a fourth bedroom can be found on the lower ground floor.

The main bedroom boasts a feature fireplace and an innovatively designed bathroom with a rainfall shower. Another bedroom features a play space mezzanine, while a guest bedroom comes with a stylish en suite bathroom.

Externally, there is a separate studio space that could serve as an ideal home office. The award-winning garden, crafted by Chelsea Flower Show Gold winners, showcases extensive planting, wooden bench seating, a leafy canopy and an aromatic herb garden.

A fire pit that doubles as a barbecue and subtle accent lighting enhance the evening ambiance. With a view of The Shard in the background, the property exudes the feel of a perfect urban oasis.