The Durdans

The Durdans is a notable building located on Chalk Lane in Epsom, constructed in 1764 by architect William Newton. The structure is made of red brick and features a pitched slate roof, standing two storeys tall. It is distinguished by a moulded stone cornice and balustrade. The principal front has a symmetrical arrangement of windows with two sets of three and two windows, featuring 19th-century stone mullions and transoms. The central three bays project slightly forward, and there is a Neo-Georgian porch at the centre of the ground floor. The garden front mirrors this design, but the central three bays are canted. The end elevations include two ranges of windows beneath a coped gable end, which also features a semi-circular lunette. Two cartouches are located at the south end; one reads "Chs. Dalbiac Restt. 1764 Wm. Newton Art" and the other "SG. Sibyllae Amicisque 1929-55."

Inside, the building retains at least two original chimney pieces designed by Newton, with drawings preserved in the Royal Institute of British Architects Collection. One of these chimney pieces features a depressed arch with a keystone, topped with a marble bas-relief and flanked by detached Ionic columns. The original house was built by Lord Berkeley in the mid-17th century and was known for its advanced taste, comparable to his more famous town house in Piccadilly. Throughout its history, it has been owned by notable figures, including the 2nd Duke of Argyll in 1708, the Earl of Guilford in 1711, and Frederick, Prince of Wales. The original structure was demolished, and the current house was built for Charles Dalbiac. In the late 19th century, it served as the residence of the Earl of Rosebery, who was a Prime Minister and owner of several Derby winners.