Issue 37 Spring 23 WEB - Flipbook - Page 68
The Restoration of
Boston Manor House
The restoration of Boston Manor House has seen the rescue and redemption of a neglected
Grade I-listed manor house – one of London’s true hidden gems - resulting in its triumphant
removal from the Heritage at Risk Register.
Recently opened by HRH Queen Camilla and soon to
welcome the public back through its doors, Boston Manor
House has been transformed into a community heritage
venue for the local Hounslow populace and visitors alike.
Historical background
Like many houses of its time, it is a tale of ambition and
achievement followed by gradual decline. Unlike many
others, Boston Manor House has survived against all
odds.
Purcell’s restoration has made possible the continuing
story of a remarkable house, first built in 1622 by its
remarkable first owner, Mary Reade - remarkably for the
time, a single widow. Externally, it is one of the earliest
examples of English Renaissance style architecture: internally, its historically significant rooms and interiors tell the
many stories of those who once lived in the house.
Still set in beautiful parkland, the house was built on an
existing manorial estate with over 230 acres of land. After
Mary Reade’s death, her house was passed down through
her family until being sold to the wealthy Clitherow family
in 1670 and, following various internal and external alterations, the property reached its peak during the late
Picture, the Completed State Drawing Room (copyright Historic England)
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Conservation & Heritage Journal
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