Just over two hours from London, you’ll find the charming village of Lavenham in Suffolk.
This quaint spot is home to over 340 listed buildings, with De Vere House standing out as one of the most famous.
You might recognize it from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1, where it appeared as Harry Potter’s birthplace in the village of Godric’s Hollow.
The History of De Vere House
De Vere House is not just a movie landmark; it’s a piece of history.
The house was built in the 1300s.
It originally served as a hunting lodge for the illustrious De Vere family, one of the wealthiest and most powerful families in medieval England.
Members of the family also served as Earls of Oxford for centuries.
Legend has it that even King Henry VII stayed at De Vere House.
A quintessential example of medieval architecture
The house is full of historical features, from its timber-framed structure to its medieval paintings and suits of armor.
Inside, the house is a treasure trove of historical artifacts, including medieval paintings and cozy four-poster beds that evoke the romanticism of a bygone era.
The house in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
For Harry Potter fans, De Vere House is special because it was used as Harry’s birthplace in the films.
The house’s charming facade, with its steep gables and intricate timberwork, was used to depict the home where Lord Voldemort murdered Harry’s parents.
The village of Lavenham was transformed with a bit of movie magic to create the fictional village of Godric’s Hollow.
De Vere House is now an Airbnb
Today, you can actually stay at De Vere House.
The owners have listed it on Airbnb, where guests can experience its magic firsthand.
With rooms starting at £120 a night, visitors can stay in one of the two beautifully appointed bedrooms.
Each features a luxurious four-poster bed and stunning timber beam details.
Guests can also relax in a private sitting room with an open fire, perfect for toasting marshmallows and chestnuts.
The Challenge of Selling the House
Despite its appeal, De Vere House has been on the market for over two and a half years.
The owners, Tony and Jane Ranzetta, originally listed it for £995,000 but have since lowered the price to £950,000.
The house’s fame as a Harry Potter landmark has attracted many fans, but potential buyers who want a quiet life have been put off by the attention.
Interestingly, the Ranzettas didn’t know their house would be in the Harry Potter movie until they saw it on screen.
Since then, it has become a popular spot for tourists and Harry Potter fans.
Lavenham Village
Lavenham itself is a beautiful medieval village, often considered one of the best-preserved in the UK.
The village features a stunning church that stands 141 feet tall, along with a high street filled with colorful, old buildings.
