Farm Hall

Farm Hall is a brick house in Godmanchester built in the 1700s with a balanced design and L-shaped footprint. The five-window front has Doric columns supporting a stone porch, while inside you find period fireplaces, decorative paneling, and an original staircase that show the craftsmanship of that era.

The house was built in 1746 for Charles Clarke, Baron of the Exchequer, reflecting early 1700s architecture. During World War II it became a place where German nuclear scientists were held, making it part of that period's complex history.

The gardens show traditional English landscaping with formal paths, hedgerows, and flower beds extending toward the River Ouse. Visitors can walk through these spaces and see how they reflect the original vision of the estate.

The building sits on West Street and can be reached via the formal gardens with paths leading to the river. Visitors should bring sturdy shoes for exploring both the interiors and the outdoor spaces at a leisurely pace.

The south lawn connects to a nearby town park through a ha-ha, a hidden sunken fence that creates boundaries without blocking views. This ingenious 1700s design feature remains visible today and shows the clever thinking behind estate gardens of that time.

Location: Godmanchester

GPS coordinates: 52.31570,-0.17911

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:29