One of Stratford-upon-Avon’s most culturally important houses is on the market for the first time in 40 years.

Owned by the late classical violinist Cordula Kempe, The Muses sits proudly in Waterside, near the famous Dirty Duck pub and opposite the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and the River Avon.

As well as being her home, The Muses was home to The Rudolf Kempe Society, established in 1980 by Mrs Kempe who wanted to honour her late husband, German conductor, Rudolf Kempe, and support young musicians.

Thanks to an extension at the back of the house which acted as a concert room, it played host to numerous concerts and events over the years and became the creative hub for actors and musicians including such luminaries as Dame Judi Dench who was also patron of the society.

Following the disbanding of the Society in 2020 and Mrs Kempe’s death last year, it is now being marketed for sale by Sheldon Bosley Knight with an asking price of £1,500,000.

Steps lead up from the street level to the stunning property which features diamond shape lattice glazing on all its three front-facing bay windows.

Once inside it opens out to reveal a substantial interior. The standout feature is the expansive rear extension, originally constructed to serve as a concert room. It was here the Rudolf Kempe Society hosted its concerts with musicians from top orchestras both in the UK and abroad who performed alongside leading names from stage and screen including from the Royal Shakespeare Company. The wide-ranging programme of events were created by Mrs Kempe including the Songs of Apollo series.

It was also here the Society supported young musicians with its master classes and workshops and concerts which showcased their talents.

This generous space is complemented by a library, side storage area and a downstairs bathroom, offering significant potential for re-imagining the layout.

The ground floor also comprises two additional reception rooms, currently used as a lounge and dining room. A separate kitchen and downstairs WC complete the ground floor. Upstairs are three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Externally, the tiered rear garden is a rare find for such a central location. Despite the size of the extension, there remains ample outside space, with the added benefit of rear access.

The Muses is now ready for its next chapter and with its historic charm, generous proportions and prime riverside setting, this is a home of exceptional character and potential.

Offered for sale with no onward chain, this is an extraordinary opportunity to own a landmark property in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.

Senior sales negotiator, Hannah Gill said: “We are so excited to bring The Muses to the market and find its new owner!

“It is such a special home with an amazing and rich history. Its location with views over Waterside is unrivalled and with some refurbishment, it has the possibility to be an absolute showstopper.

“It has so much potential we can’t wait to see what the new owners will do with it!”