Packwood House

Historic Tudor house with a celebrated garden.

Mr John Fetherstone built the first house to stand at Packwood between 1556-1560. Over time his original timber-framed home was incorporated into the main part of the house, and today the dignified façade is embellished by 16th century pointed gables, mullioned windows and towering chimney stacks.

Packwood House was home to the Fetherstones for more than three centuries and it is not surprising that family legend is now integral to the house's history. In 1642 the Parliamentarian General Henry Ireton sought hospitality at Packwood House on the night preceding the Battle of Edgehill. However, the Fetherstones saw fit to be careful in their allegiances during this troubled time and, according to local lore, Charles II also found refreshment here following defeat at the Battle of Worcester.

The last of the Fetherstones sold Packwood House in the late 19th century and the property passed into the hands of wealthy industrialist Alfred Ash. His son, Graham Baron Ash, embarked upon a visionary restoration project which took the house back in time to its Tudor roots, or at least to a 20th century evocation of Tudor architecture. Ash removed all traces of Georgian and Victorian renovation, transformed a barn into a Tudor great hall and filled the rooms with period furniture, Jacobean panelling and 16th century textiles.

Despite Packwood House's interesting history and fine furnishings, many visitors are drawn here by the delightful grounds. These include a sunken lawn, herbaceous borders and the renowned 'Sermon on the Mount' yew garden.

We offer:

• Garden
• Historic building