A 15-bedroomed mansion, widely regarded as the finest example of Arts and Crafts design, has been listed for sale near Guildford.

Greyfriars House and its 27-acre estate is on the market for £4.5m. It was built in 1896 for the novelist and playwright Julian Sturgis whose many works include the libretto for the Sullivan opera Ivanhoe. Other owners include Philip Lyle of the sugar company Tate and Lyle.

The Grade II listed house was designed by Charles Voysey [1857-1941] who is considered as the father of the Arts and Crafts movement, with gardens by the prominent garden designer Gertrude Jekyll [1843-1932].

Currently used as a private residence and wedding reception venue, Greyfriars boasts 15 bedrooms, nine bathrooms and many grand rooms including a magnificent reception hall and double-height drawing room.

The house was sensitively restored by its current owner who has furnished it with modern furniture and some original Voysey pieces.

A long private driveway leads to the main house and 27 acres of gardens, a tennis court, outbuildings and disused swimming pool. Perched on the edge of a steep escarpment, the house has far-reaching views across the tree tops towards The Surrey Hills.

Beatrice Knight, from the agents DDRE Global, said: “Greyfriars House is a truly unique opportunity to own a masterpiece of architectural history, offering both an exceptional family home and an ideal venue for hosting events.