Doddington Hall

Doddington Hall is a very fine late Elizabethan Mansion, completed in 1600. It was built by Robert Smythson for Thomas Taylor who was the registrar to the Bishop of Lincoln. Smythson also designed Longleat, Hardwick Hall and Burton Agnes. Doddington’s high symmetrical outlines and huge windows symbolise the security and confidence of Queen Elizabeth’s prosperous age.

In 1749 the Hall was inherited by John Delaval of Seaton Delaval in Northumberland. He carried out an extensive redesign of the interior in a bold Georgian manner. However he did not change the house externally which remains as it it was in 1600 including the gatehouse, courtyards and formal gardens.

In 1830 George Jarvis inherited the house from his ladyfriend Sarah Gunman who was heiress to the property; the present owners are his direct descendants.

Since 1974 Doddington has been the family home of Mr & Mrs Antony Jarvis. They have devoted themselves to the upkeep and repair of the house and gardens; increasing public access; organising events such as concerts and exhibitions to encourage visitors and developing other businesses on the estate such as the sale of Christmas trees.

The house is full of fascinating textiles, porcelain, furniture and family portraits. Visitors often remark on the unique sense of unbroken family occupation at Doddington and its cared-for, living atmosphere today.

Doddington Hall is surrounded by five acres of romantic walled gardens, with formal topiary, box-edged knot garden, fountains and sumptuous borders. Flag Iris is a speciality.

The wild garden has a superb succession of spring flowering bulbs and Rhododendrons from February to May. There are naturalised Crown Imperial Lilies, Victorian Daffodil varieties and a brave show of native spring wildflowers.

Meander down delightful paths and discover magnificent old trees, a Temple of the Winds, water gardens and a turf maze. There’s also a nature trail through the surrounding park woods and farmland