Parnham House

Parnham House is a stone manor in Beaminster featuring stone-mullioned windows and winding staircases designed by architect John Nash in 1810. The building displays the refined design characteristics typical of the Regency period.

The house was built in 1552 for Robert Strode and Elizabeth Gerad, replacing an earlier structure from the 1400s. The Strode family retained ownership of the estate for more than 200 years.

The house hosted the School for Craftsmanship in Wood starting in 1976, where John Makepeace taught students furniture making and business skills. This workshop attracted craftspeople interested in traditional woodworking techniques.

The building requires careful planning before a visit, as extensive restoration work is underway. It is advisable to check the current conditions and accessibility in advance.

The grounds contain the burial place of William Barnard Rhodes-Moorhouse, the first airman to receive the Victoria Cross. He died in 1915 at the Battle of Ypres and is laid to rest on the estate.

Location: West Dorset

Location: Beaminster

GPS coordinates: 50.79970,-2.74615

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:41