Mapledurham

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Nestled along the tranquil banks of the River Thames, Mapledurham stands as a testament to centuries of English heritage, weaving together a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and family legacy. This extraordinary Elizabethan estate, with roots stretching back to the Domesday Book of 1086, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the lives of one of England’s most enduring noble families.

The Origins of Mapledurham

The name Mapledurham, meaning “the maple tree enclosure,” originally comprised two distinct manors. Mapledurham Gurney, owned by William de Warenne, and Mapledurham Chazey, belonging to Milo Crispin, would eventually merge to create the magnificent estate we know today. In 1490, Richard Blount of Iver purchased the property, marking the beginning of a remarkable family connection that continues to this day.

Architectural Marvel of the Elizabethan Era

The current Mapledurham House was conceived by Sir Michael Blount in the late 1580s, a period coinciding with the Spanish Armada. Built in the classic Elizabethan E-shape, the house represents more than just architectural brilliance—it symbolizes the social status of its creators. Constructed with rich red bricks typical of the era, the manor showcases intricate brickwork patterns that speak to the craftsmanship of the time.

Unique Architectural Features

• Cantilevered staircase from the Elizabethan period
• Intricate plaster ceilings preserving original designs
• Private chapel added in 1797 in the Strawberry Hill Gothic Revival style
• Gables adorned with oyster shells, signaling a safe refuge for Catholics during times of religious persecution

Literary and Cultural Connections

Beyond its architectural significance, Mapledurham boasts fascinating literary connections. The renowned poet Alexander Pope was a frequent visitor, courting the Blount sisters Martha and Theresa between 1707 and 1715. The estate has also been a backdrop for numerous film and television productions, including The Eagle Has Landed and episodes of Midsomer Murders.

The Remarkable Blount Family Legacy

For over five centuries, the Blount family has maintained continuous ownership of the estate, weathering significant historical challenges. From serving as Lieutenants of the Tower of London to surviving the tumultuous English Civil War, the family’s resilience is etched into every corner of Mapledurham.

Historical Highlights

• 1588: Sir Michael Blount begins construction of the grand manor
• 1643: House sacked by Roundheads during the Civil War
• 1797: Gothic Revival chapel added to the estate
• 2019: Passed to Thomas Eyston, the current owner

🏰 Note: The estate includes not just the house, but also a historic watermill—the last working mill on the Thames—and the medieval St. Margaret's Church.

Today, Mapledurham remains a living testament to English history, offering visitors a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience the continuity of a remarkable family's journey through centuries of change.