Athelhampton House: Tudor style and grace

With a history spanning more than a thousand years, much of Athelhampton as seen today has stood for over five centuries.

Built by Sir William Martyn in 1485, successive generations developed the land and manor until ownership passed to Alfred Cart de Lafontaine in 1891 who committed to restoring Athelhampton to all its Tudor glory. Today, this iconic and historic home is under the devoted ownership, love and care of Patrick and Andrea Cooke who protect the legacy and beauty of Athelhampton for generations to come.

A stunning example of Tudor architecture, the Great Hall with its Linenfold panelling heraldic stained glass, majestic fireplace and vaulted timber roof, is the very heart of Athelhampton House. Heralded as one of the finest examples of original Tudor architecture, from here visitors can explore the Manor from the Great Chamber and Library in the East Wing, through sumptuous bedchambers, fine dining rooms and State Bedrooms through to the decadent Dressing and Bathing suites in which rests a glorious William Holland Copper Bath. Bathed in dappled light from the iconic leaded windows, the copper gleams against the opulent, richly adorned wallcoverings, whilst the ornate gold mirror and candle chandelier, softened by the passing of time with their rich patination lend a feeling of gentle grandeur to the space.

With connections to Dorset’s Literary master Thomas Hardye and an artistic legacy of guests and residents raging from Noel Coward through to Russian artist Marevna whose work adorns the galleries, the house is an integral historical and artistic part of Dorset Heritage.

A magical wedding venue, a centre of the Arts, hosting outdoor theatre and events throughout the year as well as being a historical masterpiece drawing visitors from around the world, Athelhampton has evolved through the ages. Full of Tudor style and grace Athelhampton has successfully managed to preserve its sense of history and grandeur whilst nurturing a glorious sense of community right at the heart of Dorset life.

athelhampton.co.uk