Hatchford Manor

Hatchford Manor in Cobham, Surrey (Elmbridge borough) is the former country house of Hatchford Park, now divided into private apartments. The name "Hatchford Manor" appears mainly in property listings, while heritage records use Hatchford Park.

What is the history of the house?

In the 19th century the estate belonged to Francis Egerton, 1st Earl of Ellesmere. The house was rebuilt around the middle of the century; sources date the original construction to either the 1840s or the 1850s. The earl began an arboretum in the grounds in 1845, and his wife laid out the gardens. St Matthew's church was built nearby and demolished in the 1960s, leaving only the churchyard, which is still in use.

Around 1890 the architect Rowland Plumbe remodelled the house extensively for the stockbroker Walter Moresby Chinnery. The steel magnate William John Firth was the last private owner of the whole house, living there in the 1930s.

What happened in the 20th century?

The house served as a military hospital in the First World War and was requisitioned by the War Office in the Second. From 1952 it housed Hatchford Park School, a residential school for children with disabilities. In the 1990s developers converted it into apartments; property listings say a fire during the works destroyed many original interior features.

What is listed?

Historic England lists three parts of the complex at Grade II, all on 16 November 1984:

• the main house, remodelled c. 1890 by Rowland Plumbe,
• the service courtyard of 1890, with a clock tower,
• the entrance wall, pavilions and iron gates, c. 1890.

Can you visit?

No. The buildings are private residences and there are no tours. Exterior features can only be seen from public areas, so respect residents' privacy.

How do you get there?

The estate lies off Ockham Lane in Cobham, about 20 km from Guildford and roughly 30 km from central London. The easiest way is by car, or by train to Cobham & Stoke d'Abernon station and then a taxi or walk.

Frequently asked questions

Is Hatchford Manor open to visitors?

No. It is a set of private apartments and interiors are not accessible.

Is it the same place as Hatchford Park?

Yes. Hatchford Park is the historic name and the name used in the heritage listings; Hatchford Manor is the name now used for the converted house.

What heritage status does it have?

The main house, service courtyard, and entrance wall with gates are all Grade II listed.

Who remodelled the house in 1890?

Architect Rowland Plumbe, for Walter Moresby Chinnery.