Whittington Court: A Historic Elizabethan Manor in Gloucestershire
Nestled five miles east of Cheltenham in Gloucestershire, England, Whittington Court stands as a distinguished example of Elizabethan architecture. This Grade I listed manor house serves as a window into the social and political landscape of Tudor England, blending centuries of residential history with archaeological significance.
Key Facts
- Location: Whittington, Gloucestershire, England.
- Completion Date: 1556.
- Original Client: John Cotton.
- Listing Status: Grade I listed building.
- Notable Feature: Contains carved overmantels from Sevenhampton Manor.
- Associated Site: Adjacent to the 12th-century St Bartholomew parish church.
Origins and Architectural Evolution
While the exact origins of the manor site are unclear, evidence suggests the location may date back to the Anglo-Saxon period. The site's deep history is further highlighted by the 1948 discovery of a Roman villa (a rural estate house of the Roman era) in an adjacent field.
The current structure was likely initiated in 1556 by John Cotton, son of Richard Cotton, on a site previously characterized by a moat. The construction was completed in time for a high-profile visit from Queen Elizabeth I in 1592, as she traveled toward Sudeley Castle.
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Over the centuries, the house underwent several modifications. Alterations and additions were made during the 16th century, the late 17th century, and the early 18th century. A more modern addition, the kitchen wing, was integrated into the structure in 1929.
Ownership and Lineage
The ownership of Whittington Court reflects the shifting fortunes of English nobility and politics. Following the Cotton family, the estate passed to Sir John Denham through his marriage to Anne Cotton. Sir John later served as the Surveyor General to King Charles II before his death in 1669.
The property subsequently passed through the female line to the Earls of Derby. By the mid-to-late 18th century, it was owned by Thomas Tracey, a Member of Parliament for Gloucester, who died in 1770. After a period of inheritance by the Misses Timbrell and Mrs. Rebecca Lighbourne, the house passed to Mr. Walter Lawrence Morris and his descendants, who eventually adopted the surname Lawrence.
In the mid-18th century, the estate was sold and incorporated into the Sandywell Park estate.
Interior Treasures and Outbuildings
The interior of Whittington Court retains its Elizabethan character. Among its most notable artifacts are two carved overmantels sourced from Sevenhampton Manor. One of these specifically displays the arms of Lawrence Washington (1602–1652), featuring the stars and stripes.
Beyond the main house, the estate includes other historically significant structures. A barn dating from 1614 and a stable block are both designated as Grade II listed buildings, ensuring their preservation.
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The Whittington Press
In a unique blend of historical preservation and modern artistry, a disused gardener's cottage on the grounds has served as the home of The Whittington Press since 1972. This fine press is dedicated to high-quality printing and publishes Matrix, a specialized journal focused on the art of printing.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Architectural Style | Elizabethan |
| Primary Builder | John Cotton |
| Year Completed | 1556 |
| Listing Grade | Grade I (Main House), Grade II (Barn and Stables) |
| Notable Visitors | Queen Elizabeth I (1592) |
| Archaeological Finds | Roman villa remains (found 1948) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who originally commissioned Whittington Court?
The current building was likely begun by John Cotton in 1556, the son of Richard Cotton.
Which famous monarch visited the house?
Queen Elizabeth I visited Whittington Court in 1592 while she was on her way to Sudeley Castle.
What archaeological discoveries were made near the manor?
In 1948, the remains of a Roman villa were discovered in a field adjacent to the house.
What is the significance of the overmantels inside the house?
The house contains two carved overmantels from Sevenhampton Manor, one of which bears the arms of Lawrence Washington (1602–1652).
What is The Whittington Press?
Established in 1972 in a former gardener's cottage, it is a fine press that publishes the printing journal Matrix.