Thenford House

Thenford House is a two-storey stone building from the mid-18th century with attic spaces, basements, side pavilions, and a distinctive cupola at the top. The structure has a balanced appearance, surrounded by grounds that include several Grade II listed outbuildings from different periods.

Michael Wodhull commissioned the building between 1761 and 1765, taking an active role in its design alongside a local draughtsman. The architectural style blends Palladian elements with older influences, reflecting a conservative approach for its era.

The house has been home to Michael and Anne Heseltine since 1976, who developed an extensive tree and plant collection across the grounds. This personal passion shaped the landscape and turned the estate into a reflection of botanical interest woven into daily life.

The estate sits on extensive grounds with different areas, some accessible and others viewable only from a distance. Plan to wear comfortable shoes and allow time to walk through the gardens and see the buildings at your own pace.

The house combines architectural features from two different styles that were rarely mixed together in the mid-18th century. This unusual design was recorded by Nikolaus Pevsner, a noted architecture historian, as especially conservative for its time.

Location: Thenford

GPS coordinates: 52.07210,-1.24004

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:00