Telegraph Cottage, President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s secret London retreat during the months leading up to D-Day, has been meticulously restored and is now listed for £8.95 million (approximately $11.8 million). Known today as Telegraph House, this palatial residence stands on the site of the original cottage, which served as Eisenhower’s primary residence and wartime headquarters from 1942 to 1945, known only to his closest confidants and staff.
Following a devastating fire in 1987, the property was rebuilt within the 4.7-acre Coombe Estate, a gated development about half an hour from Central London. The current home, one of five detached houses on the estate, combines neo-Georgian elegance with modern luxury.
“Telegraph House is an exceptional property, not only for its opulent modern amenities but also for its profound historical significance,” said Shaun Drummond, residential director at Harrods Estates. “Built on the site of President Eisenhower’s clandestine wartime residence, this neo-Georgian detached house masterfully combines timeless elegance with contemporary comfort. During the Second World War, the original Telegraph Cottage provided Eisenhower with a peaceful retreat amidst some of the most critical moments in history. Today, this prestigious location affords a lifestyle that echoes the tranquility and convenience once sought by one of the 20th century’s most influential figures.”
The current residence features seven bedrooms across 12,476 square feet and boasts modern upgrades such as central air conditioning, a heat source recovery system, and a working elevator. Standout amenities include a 35-foot indoor swimming pool, a cinema room, a private gym, an orangery, and a rear garden. The home also features a dramatic double-height reception hall, a chef’s kitchen with high-end appliances from Gaggenau, Wolf, and Sub-Zero, stunning marble fireplaces, custom built-ins, and a grand staircase.
“Telegraph House is a true treasure, presenting an extraordinary way of life within a setting rich in history,” Drummond added.
