Even Hercule Poirot felt at home in a mews

Over the years many well-known writers have been inspired to write novels about fictional characters living in mews houses. “The Man in the Mews” by Joy Packer, published in 1964, captures a 20th century view of mews living. Described as “a superb blend of romance, atmosphere and suspense”, the storyline features socially prominent families, former spies and a long-hidden secret.

“Britannia Mews” was written by Margery Sharp, author of the famous children’s book “The Rescuers”, which was later turned into a Disney film. This historical novel about a fictional London mews street shines a light on the social differences between the servants who originally lived in mews houses and their employers.

Even the “Queen of Crime” – Agatha Christie herself – couldn’t resist setting one of her stories in a mews house. “Murder in the Mews” is a short story about the mysterious death of a widow who is assumed by the police to have committed suicide. However Hercule Poirot, Christie’s famous Belgian detective, is not so sure.

Agatha Christie and other popular fiction writers appreciate that London mews properties are places where romance and secrecy can flourish in equal measure, so it’s probably not a coincidence that many of the writers themselves have chosen to live in mews houses.

Colin Clark, who wrote the book “My week with Marilyn” lived at number five Manson Mews in South Kensington. After his youthful encounter with Hollywood superstar Marilyn Monroe, he went on to become a famous economist and statistician, living out his final years at his mews home.

This traditional mews house (see the first featured photo), available to rent in Manson Mews, is unusual as it offers five bedrooms. It also boasts a reception room (photo featured above), contemporary kitchen, two bathrooms (one ensuite), a dining room and a roof terrace. Residents here can enjoy the area’s desirable bars, boutiques and restaurants or explore South Kensington’s atmospheric museums quarter.

Annabel Karmel is an author of books on food for babies and children and she once lived at Number 20 Albion Close (photo featured above) on the Hyde Park Estate, London W2. Creatives will love this rental opportunity at Albion Close, offering an eat-in kitchen, a first floor reception, a bathroom and two double bedrooms. The house also boasts exceptional features such as a sauna, recording studio, dark room, decked roof terrace, a garage and a private parking space.

If you are looking for a mews home to inspire you, Lurot Brand can help. Call our office today to view some outstanding mews properties for sale or to rent.