If you are a fan of Downton Abbey, then you will recognise this Georgian house as the home of Lady Violet Crawley, played so engagingly by Dame Maggie Smith. Early on in the series, Lady Violet describes the Dower House as a 'little cottage...designed by Wren for the first Earl's sister'.

But just as Dame Maggie isn't really a dowager duchess, so the house wasn't really built by Wren – it's not even in Yorkshire, where the TV series is set. The 'little cottage' is actually Grade II* listed, eight-bedroom Byfleet Manor in Surrey and it's just come on the market for £3.95 million.

The present house was built around 1686 though its history dates back to the 7th Century and there is mention of a manor in Byfleet in the Domesday Book. By 1307 it had become the property of the Crown. It even became a genuine Dower House for a time when Edward III gave it to his mother, Isabella, as part of her Dower.

Henry VIII later granted Byfleet Manor to Katherine of Aragon, and Queen Elizabeth I was known to have visited in 1576. The last Royal owner was the Queen Consort Anne of Denmark, wife of King James I.

But whether prospective buyers are attracted by its historical connections or by its starring role in a hit TV series (the current owner has hosted afternoon teas for Downton Abbey fans from all over the world), Byfleet Manor is first and foremost a family home. Located at the end of a winding country lane, on the fringe of the nearby village, it's conveniently placed for the local amenities yet discreetly positioned for privacy and security. And at just over 20 miles from London, it's an easy commute from the capital.

The estate is being sold in five portions, however the four additional lots will not be sold until the main house finds a buyer – allowing them the option to purchase the estate in its entirety. Split up the estate? Lady Violet definitely wouldn't approve of that.