Squerryes Court

Although the present house dates from 1686, it is known that the 'de Squerie' family had lived on this site some 400 years earlier. They left in 1463 and, for the next two hundred years, the property changed hands many times. When a London merchant purchased the estate in 1680, he pulled down the large timbered hall house and built the fashionable country house now known as Squerryes Court.

The house came into the ownership of the Earls of Jersey at the beginning of the 18th century, until it was acquired by John Warde in 1731. His great uncle had been Lord Mayor of London in 1680, and later his father also achieved that office as well as becoming one of the first Governors of the Bank of England. Today, Squerryes Court remains the family home of the Warde family, and contains family memorabilia and art collections from the last 270 years. As with most big old country mansions, it has undergone much remodelling and restoration since it was first built by Sir Nicholas Crisp. In the 19th century the domestic quarters, contained in two pavilions that flanked the house, were pulled down, and the old Coach House was closed up early in the 20th century when the horse and carriage was replaced by the motor car.

Internally, the Wardes' home is elegantly decorated, and furnishings range from the early 18th century to the 20th century. Many family portraits adorn the walls, and one room is dedicated to General James Wolfe, the childhood companion and lifelong friend of George Warde. Another room displays an exceptional set of English tapestries, with the family coat of arms woven into each panel. These were specially made for the Warde family in 1720, as were the ebonised settees standing in the Tapestry Room.

Standing in 10 acres of picturesque historic gardens, Squerryes Court is tucked away in the peace of the surrounding Kent countryside. Throughout every season there is colour and interest from the restored parterres, the formal rose gardens, the Victorian rockery, the topiary, and the magnificent lake. A gazebo, built by John Warde in 1735, looks down over the lake, and an 18th century dovecot close to the coach house is still occupied by 21st century pigeons. Both the house and the gardens have a very 'gentle' feel about them, and the atmosphere is extremely calming. It is not difficult to imagine a society afternoon tea held on the lawns in front of the lake at Squerryes Court, with ladies in long gowns carrying parasols, and gentlemen in formal dress discussing the latest political situation.