Mr. Howell has lived with his family in the home for the past 11 years. Even though the core of the house dates back to 16th century, with 19th-century additions in the traditional Surrey/Sussex style featuring dark Tudor-inspired timber beams, the owner has carried out major refurbishment works over the years, including the addition of a gym and game room.

The country house, just 45 miles southwest of London in Dunsfold village, near Guildford, sits on nearly 50 acres of landscaped gardens, pastures and woodlands and comes with a Dutch barn and American-style stables, tennis court, pool with pool house, extensive outbuildings, an apple orchard and a croquet lawn.

The seven-bedroom, three-bathroom property, called Barnfield House, comes with five reception rooms—including two studies—a spiral wine cellar, boot room and two detached two-bedroom cottages.

"We've modernized and converted the house," the owner says. "We've also completely rebuilt the whole kitchen, dining and utility area."

The house is listed with Hamptons International at £8.25 million ($12.6 million).