Owletts, English country house in Cobham, England
Owletts is a red-brick house with a symmetrical front, two storeys, and sliding sash windows typical of Kent architecture. The main rooms are arranged around a central staircase, with a garden surrounding the property.
Built in 1683 for Bonham Hayes, a prosperous farmer, the house later became home to renowned architect Sir Herbert Baker. Baker's restoration work shaped the property during the 20th century.
The interior displays Carolean-style plasterwork from 1684, particularly above the main staircase, which reflects the craftsmanship of that period.
The property opens to visitors just a few days each year through the National Trust. Only selected rooms and the garden are accessible, so plan your visit in advance.
The garden features a bird bath made from Corinthian capitals recovered during Baker's work at the Bank of England. This unusual detail shows how Baker creatively reused architectural elements.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
