Against a backdrop of overseas conflict and domestic economic uncertainty, the London market has faced challenges in the past 12 months. But rare and ‘best in class’ homes will always win, Zoe Dare Hall discovers, as the capital’s top agents reveal their deals of the year

A round-up of the latest self-build and home renovation news, products and events. By Jennifer Grimble and Joseph Mullane

These five standout properties have halls made for towering trees, sparkling decorations and Champagne-bright celebrations– festive magic that will practically begin before new owners move in

The Water Tower, Aldeburgh, Suffolk. A Grade II-listed ,1870s former water tower with a roo- top pavilion and far-reaching views of the River Alde. It has a double-height drawing room that retains its

After searching for a year in a heated property market, first-time buyers Lacey Richards and Aaron Coe finally got lucky with an unloved ex-rental house. As the owners were moving to Australia and wan

Three historic country houses in Yorkshire, a stone’s throw from the most northerly of Britain’s 16 white chalk horses, offer comfortable contemporary living and fascinating backstories