Visit Athelhampton at Christmas

Athelhampton is one of England's finest Tudor Manors.

The Great Hall built in 1485 remains greatly unchanged with a mainly original hammer-beam roof, carved stonework, stained glass, and other details. The house survives due to its complex ownership through the years.

Come and have a guided tour of all of the Hardy connections with this Tudor building. There will be a tour and walk followed by an afternoon tea. Meet at Athelhampton at 12 noon on Saturday 21 December.

George Wood acquired a house in poor condition, he repaired the hall roof. Thomas Hardy's father was involved in the work and Hardy visited and painted a watercolour of the house in 1859. In 1862 George Wood built a new Church at Athelhampton, with Hicks of Dorchester as Architect who employed Thomas Hardy. George Wood died in 1866 and his nephew George Wood Homer managed the estate and inherited a few years later

Athelhampton is one of England's finest Tudor Manors.

The Great Hall built in 1485 remains greatly unchanged with a mainly original hammer-beam roof, carved stonework, stained glass, and other details. The house survives due to its complex ownership through the years.

Also on this day

Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols

Saturday 21 December 4.30 pm at St Peter’s Church, High West Street, Dorchester. DT1 1XA