Little Wolford in Warwickshire

Emma Morby is the Director of Land Acquisition at Heritage England Limited. In this article, she describes Little Wolford, a manor house in Warwickshire.

Little Wolford originates from the 15th century and is the perfect Grade II listed Manor House. Keeping many of its original features, you are taken back in time through its great hall and minstrels gallery. The property also has a gate lodge, separate cottage and outstanding views over the 34 acres of gardens and pastureland.

The property was first listed on 2nd September 1952 for its architectural features both inside and out. Built of Cotswold stone with a stone slate roof, the house is approached through a pair of ornate wrought iron gates via a sweeping drive to the ancient oak linenfold panelled front door.

The entrance hall retains the original 15th century oak screen where an arched doorway leads into the great hall with its vaulted roof and hammer beams, a minstrels gallery and a huge fireplace with an overmantel carved with the Ingram arms. The staff sitting room, originally a separate bakehouse, boasts an inglenook fireplace with a huge bread oven. Local legend has it that this became a hiding place for King Charles II after the Battle of Worcester. There is a stone spiral staircase taking you to the upper floors which are said to retain the blood stains from the Civil War Battle of Edgehill.

The master bedroom has limed oak panelling with a stone fireplace flanked by cupboards with a carved overmantel and views over the stunning gardens. It also has its own dressing room and en-suite adding to its grandeur.

This historic property boasts eight bedrooms, four reception rooms, numerous bathrooms, a wine cellar, gun room, music room, impressive kitchen and tennis courts. The list does go on, but the photos show a lovely cross section.

Unfortunately, this property was snapped up for an undisclosed figure in 2021, but it was marketed for offers in excess of £5,000,000.

There are a number of historic properties for sale at the moment, and often these are sold below value as buyers are scared of what work is involved in owning a listed building. So, if you are like me and love the history that surrounds these amazing buildings, then 2022 is going to be a good year to buy a historic building.