Historic Harptree Court in Somerset Unveils Extensive Renovation
Harptree Court, a magnificent Grade II-listed house in Somerset, has a rich history dating back to the late 18th century. Recently renovated, it stands in 52 acres of beautiful grounds and offers extensive living space. Its ownership has changed hands over the years, with notable figures including the Earl Waldegrave and Augustus Charles Gregory Cox.
Originally built in 1797 (with additions in 1820) by Charles Harcourt Masters, the house was initially known as Richmond Hall and was home to wealthy Lincolnshire landowner Joshua Scrope. In 1806, it was bought by John James Waldegrave, 6th Earl Waldegrave, who lived there with his mother, the Dowager Countess of Waldegrave.
The ownership of Harptree Court from 1858 to 1872 is not precisely documented in publicly accessible records. However, genealogical sources suggest that Augustus Charles Gregory Cox, a member of the Landed Gentry, was likely the owner during this period. Cox is known to have listed the property in the Victoria Almanach 'Landed Gentry' and was still the owner in 1875. For a definitive confirmation, one should consult the Somerset Heritage Services or the National Archives, UK.
Since then, the house has had several owners, including Mary Jary Gurney and William Wildman Kettlewell. The current owners have undertaken a major renovation of the house and grounds.
Harptree Court, situated nine miles from Wells, 13 miles from Bristol, and 16 miles from Bath, offers a total of 11,750 sq ft of living space. It includes four reception rooms, a home office, snug, kitchen/breakfast room, eight bedrooms, four bathrooms, a nursery, and a staff flat. Additionally, it comes with a two-bedroom Laundry Cottage, an enchanting treehouse, and former farm buildings suitable for residential development. With its stunning location on the edge of the village of East Harptree within the Mendip Hills National Landscape, Harptree Court is a truly exceptional property.
