Greys Court

Jacobean court intrigue and medieval fortifications add to the appeal of this Tudor-style house.

One last tower looms above the ruins of the original fourteenth century 'Greys Court' manor built by Lord de Grey, one of the founding Knights of the Garter. The gabled house that stands here today was constructed by the Knollys family two centuries later. Alterations over the years have made this charming family home reflect the changing tastes of successive generations. Fine plasterwork, attributed to Roberts of Oxford, adorns the interior.

Outside, the traditional walled-gardens have been fully restored to bloom among the ruins. Rambling old-fashioned roses, wisteria, cherry trees and the monastic-style kitchen garden have an authentic charm. The Moon Bridge leads into extensive parkland where visitors can find the 19th century ice house. Of particular interest is the Tudor wheelhouse, which stands by the 200 foot deep well. Water was raised from the well by a large wheel turned by a donkey.

Picturesque Greys Court played a part in one of the most notorious murders of the 17th century. Around the year 1612, the beautiful Frances Howard met and fell in love with the dashing Robert Carr - a favourite of King James I. One obstacle blocked their path. Frances already had a husband, the dull Robert Devereux. Frances' devious plans to obtain a divorce were uncovered by the poet Sir Thomas Overbury, who foolishly threatened to expose her. But vengeful Frances speedily arranged for him to be imprisoned, and consequently poisoned, in the Tower of London.

For a year the lovers lived happily, but the truth eventually emerged and was followed by one of Britain's most famous murder trials. The pair were eventually found guilty of murder, but King James I waived the sentence of execution for the lighter punishment of house arrest. Frances and Robert spent the rest of their lives confined to Greys Court - bitter for loss of power and a romance that did not stand the test of time.

We offer:

• Garden
• Historic building