Heywood Literary Festival at Heywood House Wiltshire

A (Very) Short History of Heywood House

Have you ever visited Heywood House, Nr Westbury?

On September 7th/8th, you’ll be able to take a step into the captivating history of the Heywood House Estate during the Heywood House Talks literary festival.

Heywood House is where stories of land grants, intriguing characters, and architectural transformations weave a tapestry of the past.

Tickets for all literary events available here…

‘Heywood House’ lies in the civil parish of Heywood, between Yarnbrook and Westbury.

The journey begins in the 13th century, when Geoffrey Burnel bestowed one and a half virgates of land to Stanley Abbey. Fast forward to the 17th century, when the Ash family took the stage, followed by the adventurous Phipps and the visionary Gaisford Gibbs. Heywood House itself, once a country retreat, now stands as a refined hub of offices with a unique heritage.

In 1837, the present Heywood House emerged from the creative hands of Harvey Eginton of Worcester, on the very ground where its predecessor had stood. A place of both history and innovation, the interior reveals a grand central hall adorned with a fireplace echoing the 17th century, stately Doric columns, and stairs reminiscent of the early 18th century.

Throughout time, this estate has been a witness to transformations – from its role as an auxiliary hospital for wounded soldiers during World War 2 to its position as a hub for the National Trust from 1982 to 2005.

Since 2005, Heywood House house has continued to thrive. Hosting annual events whilst providing delicious treats, lunches, tea and coffee from the adjoining, ‘Heywood House Café’

Heywood House’s history continues to unfold, with a programme of talks, concerts, theatre, and first ever literary festival to be held at Heywood House Estate this coming September 7th/8th.

The story continues…

We look forward to having you join us at Heywood House this summer!


Comments

Leave a Reply

Discover more from Heywood Literary Festival

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading