Chilston Park

Chilston Park is a red-brick country house in Boughton Malherbe with two projecting side bays, a pedimented central bay, and a Diocletian window across its symmetrical facade. The estate spreads over 78 hectares of parkland with formal gardens, two lakes, and historic structures dotted throughout.

The estate was owned by William Fitz-Hamon in the 12th century and later passed through several noble families, including the Hoese family who held it until 1545. The central staircase contains carved panelling from around 1540, representing some of the earliest preserved architectural features in the house.

The entrance hall displays a black-and-white stone floor from the early 18th century, while four interior rooms feature ornamental plaster ceilings from the mid-18th century. These crafted details offer insight into the artistic skill and tastes of those who lived here.

The grounds are accessible through designated pathways that let you explore the gardens and historic structures at your own pace. Wear sturdy shoes as you will be walking across large areas and weather can affect ground conditions.

The building displays a rare blend of early elements like the 1540 carved staircase panelling alongside later additions such as 18th-century plaster ceilings. This layering of different periods within a single structure tells the story of how tastes and needs shifted across generations.