BOLLINGHAM HOUSE

Bollingham House is an elegant Gentleman's residence built at the beginning of the 18th century. The earliest evidence of a property at Bollingham is in the Domesday Book of 1066. It is recorded that there was a settlement called 'Burardesture' which became Bolynghull in 1375 and finally Bollingham in the 15th century..

The early 11th century fortified settlement with its motte and bailey was to ward against the Welsh who were frequently involved in battles along Offa's Dyke. It is this view and position that affords the mention in 1839 that Bollingham was 'a desirable mansion in a beautiful situation commanding one of the finest views in the country.'

Today the views are still as spectacular with the Wye Valley below, the Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons to the West and glimpses of the Malvern Hills from the main bedrooms.

The house was built as a 'gentleman's residence' in1710 alongside an existing black and white barn and next to an ancient chapel . A chapel has been on this site since the late 14th century for the pilgrims on their way to Hereford Cathedral. The 14th century black and white barn is now restored and to a fine condition and used by Stephanie and John for private parties and local charity events. Bollingham was built with the usual array of offices, coach house, stables, ostler accommodation and a fine pair of kennels, all centred round a courtyard. In 1839 the Victorians made various improvements to the house. These included the addition of the main porch, new hallway and staircase and replacing the original small Georgian windows with large sash windows to take advantage of the spectacular views. The unusual 'arts and crafts' exterior half tiles were also added at this time.

John and Stephanie Grant bought Bollingham House in 1997. Stephanie was born in nearby Leominster and had always loved the dramatic countryside of North Herefordshire so to return to this 'forgotten county' was a dream come true. Location was everything and on seeing Bollingham they were both drawn to this outstanding house despite the rather forlorn overgrown 4 acre garden. They were sure that with care and consideration this once fine Gentleman's residence could soon be adapted to the 20th century and the garden restored. Their work started both inside and out.