Ironmonger Lane, London

The Old Rectory is a substantial former Victorian rectory set within a gated courtyard off Ironmonger Lane, in the heart of the City of London. Believed to date from circa 1890, this semi-detached house offers approximately 3,700 sq ft of accommodation across five storeys, each served by a passenger lift.

The house’s ecclesiastical origins form part of a wider historical setting. Ironmonger Lane takes its name from the iron merchants who once traded here, with records of the street extending back to the twelfth century. Before the Great Fire of 1666, it was one of just two approaches to Guildhall. Today, its narrow proportions and adjoining courtyards preserve a sense of the City’s early street pattern, moments from Bank and the surrounding financial district.

Nearby stands the surviving tower of St Olave Old Jewry, rebuilt by Wren’s office following the Great Fire. The tower remained after the main body of the church was demolished in the late nineteenth century, providing a tangible link to the neighbourhood’s parish history.

Following a period of office use, The Old Rectory was returned to residential accommodation by the current owners through a comprehensive refurbishment completed in 2014. The result is a generously proportioned home combining period character with a layout suited to family living and entertaining. High ceilings, a sweeping staircase and a marble fireplace lend distinction to the principal interiors.

The raised ground floor opens into an impressive entrance hall with tiled flooring and a staircase rising through the house. Double doors lead into a library, which connects to a generous dual aspect reception room. Large windows overlook Ironmonger Lane and the courtyard, while a marble fireplace provides a focal point.

The extended lower ground floor provides a spacious kitchen and breakfast room with separate dining and seating areas. A further lounge offers a more informal setting, with flexibility for use as a family room, snug or potential cinema room.

Four generously proportioned double bedrooms, three dressing rooms and three bathrooms occupy the first, second and third floors. On the third floor, bi-folding doors open onto a west-facing balcony, while a further roof terrace enjoys southerly views across the surrounding rooftops.

Combining the scale of a substantial period house with lift access and two outdoor spaces, The Old Rectory offers a distinctive residential address within a part of London shaped by centuries of trade, civic life and worship.

The Old Rectory is approached from Ironmonger Lane and set within a gated courtyard, which closes to the public from 3pm daily. Moments from Bank, the house occupies a distinctive position among the historic lanes and courtyards of the City of London.

The surrounding area offers a wide choice of restaurants, cafés and shops, with Cheapside, the Royal Exchange and One New Change nearby. St Paul’s Cathedral, Guildhall and the Bank of England contribute to the neighbourhood’s rich architectural and historic character.

Transport connections are extensive, with Bank station 0.1 miles away, Mansion House 0.2 miles and Cannon Street 0.25 miles. St Paul’s is 0.3 miles away, with further connections available from Moorgate, 0.3 miles, and Liverpool Street, 0.5 miles.

All distances are approximate. Source: [hidden information]/maps