Basil Samuel (1912–1987) was the founder of Great Portland Estates, one the United Kingdom's largest property businesses.
After training as an estate agent with J. Trevor & Sons, Basil Samuel went into partnership with his brother, Howard, in 1934.[1] Together they started buying up properties in the West End.[1] He served in the British Army in the rank of Captain during World War II and in 1945 returned to London to resume developing properties.[1] In the case of at least one of these properties, Basil and Howard worked in joint venture with Lord Samuel of Wych Cross, their cousin.[1]
In 1959 Basil Samuel established Great Portland Estates and expanded it into one of the United Kingdom's largest property businesses.[1]
Samuel was a prominent horse breeder and owner and was also keen on shooting.[1] He also gave significant sums to charity[2] and was a Governor of the London Hospital.[1]