Stepping Back in Time: A Journey Through a Thousand-Year-Old English Estate
Nestled in the picturesque English countryside, a magnificent estate with a history stretching back a thousand years offers a unique glimpse into the past. Once a Catholic priory where monumental historical events unfolded, this sprawling property has been meticulously restored to reflect its 1500s grandeur, all while preserving its ancient soul.
From Medieval Priory to Grand Estate: A Rich History
The journey to this remarkable home began in Barnes, London, where the owners sought a larger space than their 16th-century cottage. Their search in “Country Life” magazine led them to a seemingly humble lodge that turned out to be the entrance to an expansive, ancient property.
This thousand-year-old estate holds a significant place in English history. It was once a priory in Joann, a site where Joan of Arc was reportedly sentenced to death in the 1300s by four sitting bishops in the house’s very own Star Chamber. During the Reformation under Henry VIII, the priory was closed and repurposed as a farm.
Historically, this site was a central priory, serving as a hub for record-keeping, including burials, penalties for crimes, and marriages—functions handled by the church rather than the state in those days. Its importance waned after the assassination of Thomas Becket by Henry II, a turning point that marked the state’s increasing influence over the country’s affairs at the expense of the church.
Restoration and Unique Features
When the current owners moved in, their vision was to restore the estate to its 1500s aesthetic. They enlisted Stuart Interiors, a firm known for its work on Windsor Castle, to help achieve this authentic look. The building is “Grade II listed,” meaning while its exterior cannot be altered, certain internal structures can be modified. This allowed for significant internal renovations that blended modern comfort with historical integrity.
Adding to the estate’s charm are several unique features. A 1904 Gypsy wagon, known as a “covered wagon,” sits proudly on the grounds. Though now weather-worn from its static position (unlike its original use where it would constantly move), it remains a beloved feature, especially by the owner’s wife, Dinina, adding a touch of rustic atmosphere to the garden.
The property also boasts stunning gardens, including a vibrant Rose Garden that reaches its full bloom around May, and a well-maintained vegetable garden overlooked by ancient oak trees and stables.
A Magical Oasis: The Alice in Wonderland Garden
A particularly enchanting area of the estate is the “Alice in Wonderland Garden,” a favorite spot of the owner for the past 15 years. This magical space features a beautiful cascading waterfall that flows directly down to the River Thames, which borders the property. It’s described as a place with a “great feeling,” offering “very magic moments”—ideal for meditation, contemplation, or quiet reflection.
In the 1920s, many of the estate’s buildings were separate clusters, almost forming a small village. They were later joined together, particularly the back part leading to a rear door, where an alley once existed. This transformation solidified the various structures into the cohesive, grand estate it is today. The owner humorously recounted an instance where, early on, someone mistook the property for “Longrain Village,” highlighting its sprawling, almost village-like appearance.
As the tour concludes, one can feel the immense history and peaceful ambiance of this thousand-year-old English estate, a true testament to timeless beauty and heritage.
Do any other historical landmarks or unique architectural features fascinate you?