A pair of islands on the River Thames near Staines, once used by King Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson as a private retreat, is set to be auctioned for £1.65 million. The sale price represents a significant reduction from the original £3 million asking price when the property was first listed in August 2025.

Holm and Hollyhock Islands, which together cover approximately 2.9 acres and are linked by a footbridge, will be offered as a single lot by the estate agent Savills in an online auction scheduled for July 28. Access to the islands is provided via a gated private driveway off Wraysbury Road, connecting them to the mainland.

Hollyhock Island, the smaller of the two at 0.2 acres, once hosted a hideaway known as The Nest. This location was used by then Prince Edward, later Edward VIII, and Wallis Simpson during their courtship, although the original house no longer remains and only its remnants are visible. Holm Island, significantly larger at 2.5 acres, features 1,200 feet of river frontage and includes a 5,000 square foot, five-bedroom detached house with four bathrooms, extensive balcony space, and garaging. The residence is being sold with vacant possession. The property also contains an acre of ancient woodland and offers potential for further development, subject to planning approval.

The islands hold historical significance as part of the scandal surrounding Edward VIII’s relationship with Simpson, an American socialite. Their liaison began in 1931 while Simpson was still married and Edward was heir apparent. Upon ascending the throne in January 1936 following the death of King George V, Edward’s intention to marry Simpson, who was twice divorced, conflicted with the Church of England’s teachings and precipitated a constitutional crisis. Edward abdicated the throne in December 1936, after reigning for less than a year, and subsequently married Simpson in France in June 1937 in a ceremony not attended by any members of the British royal family. His younger brother assumed the throne as King George VI and Edward was granted the title Duke of Windsor.

Ralph Mendes da Costa, director at Savills, emphasized the rarity of acquiring private islands so close to London and highlighted the property’s blend of privacy, green space, and development potential. He noted that the property’s unique setting and scope for enhancement are expected to generate substantial interest from homeowners, developers, and investors alike, although any development would be reliant on obtaining the necessary planning permissions.