A Whimsical Retreat Fit for a Gothic Genius
Tim Burton, the visionary filmmaker behind iconic titles like Edward Scissorhands, Beetlejuice, and Corpse Bride, is parting ways with a real-life fairytale. Nestled in the tranquil Oxfordshire countryside, Burton’s 18th-century English estate—known as Mill House—is now listed for $6 million. With its historic bones, lush surroundings, and storytelling flair, the home reflects the gothic aesthetic and fantastical imagination that have defined Burton’s career.
A Home Steeped in History and Character
Built in 1741, the estate is a Grade II-listed property located in the riverside village of Sutton Courtenay, England. Set on 17 secluded acres, the home is as much a part of British history as it is of Burton’s cinematic legacy. Prior to Burton’s ownership, the estate once belonged to former Prime Minister H.H. Asquith and has long been a fixture of Oxfordshire’s elite countryside.
The estate’s location along the River Thames lends it an ethereal serenity, where time seems to slow down. The property includes three private islands connected by rope bridges, extensive gardens, and a summerhouse nestled beside a mill pond. This is not just an estate—it’s a scene from a storybook brought to life.
Interior Details: Gothic Meets Georgian Grandeur
The Mill House spans nearly 6,000 square feet and boasts eight bedrooms and four bathrooms. Each room in the house whispers a tale of vintage charm and whimsical design.
The entrance opens into a grand reception room with sage-green walls and a marble fireplace—understated yet captivating. The interiors are rich with character: original fireplaces, wood-beamed ceilings, deep velvet couches, and antique chandeliers. Every space, from the crimson-curtained library to the plush game room adorned with Burton memorabilia, breathes theatricality and intimacy.
A standout is the artist’s study, where large windows illuminate mid-century furniture and a wall-sized Ed Wood poster. Here, the creative energy of Burton feels especially palpable—this is where the imagination takes flight.
Bedrooms That Tell Stories
The estate’s bedrooms are styled with a playful mix of Victorian formality and Burtonesque whimsy. One room features a dark wood sleigh bed against sage walls, while another offers twin beds in vibrant crimson and navy. A more feminine suite embraces cottage-core simplicity, blending vintage wardrobes with pastel tones and tufted loveseats.
The bathrooms continue the estate’s visual narrative—blush-toned walls, clawfoot tubs, brass fixtures, and antique vanities coexist harmoniously with modern touches. Every element was clearly curated with storytelling in mind.
The Enchanted Grounds: Where Nature and Fantasy Meet
Outside, the estate is a lush wonderland. Visitors are greeted by rose-covered pergolas, manicured hedges, and towering willows lining the private drive. A rope bridge spanning the river feels straight out of Sleepy Hollow, and the gardens burst with seasonal blooms including bluebells in spring and russet leaves in autumn.
The landscape was designed to evoke emotion: mystery, nostalgia, serenity. This isn’t just acreage; it’s a stage for imagination.
Why Tim Burton Is Selling
While the reasons behind the sale are private, it’s believed that Burton, now spending more time in London and Los Angeles for work on the second season of Wednesday and other projects, is consolidating his residences. The estate, though beloved, may now be more suited to someone who can enjoy its full potential year-round.
In recent years, Burton has favored properties with architectural character. He owns another striking home in London—The Wabe—an architectural curiosity that fuses Arts and Crafts with Scottish Baronial flair. However, Mill House stands apart in its narrative potential. It’s a place designed not for show, but for soul.
A Rare Opportunity in English Real Estate
Properties like Mill House rarely come to market. Not only does it offer nearly 300 years of history, but its condition and layout are ready for modern family life, creative retreat, or countryside escape. With the rising interest in unique English estates—especially among celebrities, artists, and transatlantic buyers—this listing has already captured international attention.
With eight bedrooms, cinematic interiors, riverfront access, and Burton’s signature touch throughout, this estate offers far more than square footage—it offers magic. It exemplifies the kind of real estate that transcends luxury and enters the realm of personal mythology.
Perfect for Fans, Collectors, and Visionaries
For fans of Tim Burton, this sale marks the opportunity of a lifetime. While the director is not including furniture or personal memorabilia in the sale, the architectural integrity and creative aura remain intact. For collectors, artists, and families seeking a home with character and pedigree, the Mill House is unmatched.
More than a house, this is a living story. Its ivy-draped brick, lavender walkways, and cinematic vignettes reflect the ethos of one of the most original minds in film. Whether you’re a lover of English real estate, a student of architecture, or simply someone who dreams in gothic, this home is your invitation to step inside the frame.
Final Thoughts
The listing of Tim Burton’s 18th-century English estate marks a significant moment in both celebrity real estate and the broader English property market. It’s not just a transaction—it’s the passing of a creative torch. For $6 million, a new chapter awaits this historic home, one filled with potential, beauty, and stories yet to be told.