Benedict Cumberbatch has bought a £2.7 million home

A source said: "Sophie wanted a break from the past and a fresh start with their new arrival which meant a new home.

"They’re planning to modernise the house throughout but it has great space and potential in which to bring up a family."

The house - which is currently being renovated - is light and airy with big rooms and it has a 70ft garden, perfect for their son or daughter to play in as they grow up.

Sophie, 37, is believed to have suggested the move away from the 38-year-old actor's bachelor pad because he previously lived there with his ex-girlfriend Olivia Poulet.

The insider added to The Sun newspaper: "You can’t blame Sophie for wanting to move somewhere else. Nobody wants to be reminded of their husband’s past relationships."

Meanwhile, Benedict previously admitted he wants as "normal" a life as possible for his son or daughter and has insisted he won't let his Hollywood career get in the way of being a good father to his and Sophie's baby.

He said: "I think there are plenty of good actors who are fathers ... I think what children do is enhance your life, they don't inhibit it.

"They don't limit it, they give you inspiration and depths of understanding of the human condition and what it is to be on this planet and what our purpose is, that goes well beyond anything a childless actor could hope for."