Charlton Park

Charlton Park is a Grade I listed country house in Charlton, England, known for its symmetrical architecture in red brick with pale stone accents and multiple stair turrets. The building sits within expansive parkland and shows the typical features of early English manor houses with clear lines and repeated window elements.

Sir Adam Newton, tutor to Prince Henry and son of King James I, began building the house in 1607 and completed it within a few years. The royal connection shaped the design and furnishings of the estate, which remained in the hands of different noble families for generations.

The estate takes its name from the surrounding settlement of Charlton, a village that has belonged to the nearby communities for centuries and remains part of the parish today. Visitors notice the royal emblems on the facade, showing how closely the house was once tied to the court.

The grounds open for community events and corporate gatherings, with different rooms available for various occasions. The annual WOMAD music festival takes place on the estate and attracts visitors from many countries.

A mulberry tree from 1608 still grows on the property, planted by order of James I as part of his campaign to promote English silk production. This tree is considered the oldest specimen of its kind in England.