So you want to live... in a former archbishop's palace

How palatial, exactly?

How palatial, exactly?

Don't get too excited - it's more of a country manor than anything else, although it was once the stopover point between Canterbury and London for residing archbishops.

Was this until fairly recently?

Not exactly. The palace was last used by the Archbishop of Canterbury during the 13th century before it was partially demolished. It was left in ruins until the 16th century, when a local family restored it.

Needs a bit of work does it?

Well, not as much as you might think. The present lord of the manor gave it a thorough restoration back in the 1980s, including the rebuilding of the east wing. So now it's more a case of modernisation for the many rooms, including the kitchen and bathrooms. (You might also want to look into replacing the carpets, which won't be to everyone's taste.)

Run me by my future estate

The Old Palace is set within six-and-a-half acres of grounds, entered through a grand set of wrought iron gates. There's also a separate two-bedroom cottage, and a six-car garage block (above which is a 200-capacity hall, where the owner holds the odd knees-up). Inside the main property there's four large reception rooms, a kitchen/breakfast room in need of refurbishment, five bathrooms and a cellar. Outside, the fishpond is apparently of particular value.

Why? Famous designer?

Apparently Pete Waterman designed the landscaped water feature, which houses a collection of rare carp. The owner has added a bit of his own bling, with a large, outdoor bar that looks over the gardens and pond.

How much?

The Old Palace in Wrotham, Kent is on the market for £2m through Strutt & Parker (01227 451123, www.struttandparker.com).