This Georgian Grade 1 listed building is of considerable architectural interest. Designed by Sir John Soane, it is recognised as the most complete, surviving example of his work. Moggerhanger House is set in 33 acres of parkland, originally landscaped by Humphry Repton. Many of the original features may still be seen in the grounds, including spacious walled gardens, an ice house and a peaceful woodland walk.
Moggerhanger Park was originally the home of Godfrey Thornton, Governor of the Bank of England in 1793-95. Godfrey was a cousin of William Wilberforce and a member of the Clapham Sect, a group of Christians who worked to improve society in 18th Century Britain.
When, in 1995, a group of Christian charities acquired Moggerhanger Park very little was known about the history of the estate. Moggerhanger House was a Grade II listed building in desperate need of renovation, having been derelict since 1987 when it closed as a hospital.
The original intention was to carry out some renovation work to enable the building to be used as a Christian conference and training centre. However, the true value of the buildings was soon realised and this resulted in their upgrade to a Grade 1 listed status. Then the long process of research, funding applications and restoration began.
The original estimate for the renovation work was just over £400,000. To date it has cost nearly £7 million, with much work still needed to restore the grounds and outbuildings! Much of the funding has come from the Heritage Lottery Fund and other architectural groups such as the Getty Foundation, the Leche Trust and the Pilgrim Trust.
Since the true heritage of Moggerhanger Park has now been realised, the vision has vastly expanded . Moggerhanger Park is now recognised as a national heritage site and also offers conference facilities in the beautiful setting of a Georgian Historic House.
The Historic Rooms in Moggerhanger House are open to visitors throughout the summer months, with the grounds, tearooms and exhibition open all year round. Other facilities include 3 conference suites, 2 dining rooms, a licensed bar and extensive grounds.
If you are interested in knowing more about Moggerhanger House, please contact Simon Cooper
