Apethorpe Hall

Why is Apethorpe so important?

• Apethorpe Hall, near Oundle, Northamptonshire, is one of the finest Grade I listed buildings in the country. It is a “double courtyard” country house, dating from the late 15th century, with strong historic, as well as architectural, interest. It sits in a site with 15 other listed buildings (one is a scheduled ancient monument) and grounds, which are included in the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens (Grade II).

Why is £7 million justified to conserve a property which will pass back into private hands?

• It was crucial that English Heritage took action to save Apethorpe Hall which was at risk from neglect and decay and of being lost forever.  Listed at grade I, Apethorpe Hall was in the very highest category of risk on the Buildings At Risk Register. It was essential that we take steps to save this majestic property which has stunning architectural features and is steeped in Tudor and Stuart history. Because of the work done by English Heritage the new owner will be required to provide a minimum of 28 days public access to the state rooms and gardens. These could be pre-booked guided tours rather than free access.

Why are private owners the best owners of our built heritage? 

• We believe the best way to safeguard the future of Apethorpe Hall is to repair the historic buildings, demolish the later unattractive structures and if possible sell the  whole site to someone who would like to live in it as it was designed to be used and enjoyed as a country house.

Why can’t English Heritage take on Apethorpe and run it as a country house visitor attraction? 

• English Heritage is committed to try to find a private buyer but if that proves impossible, the fallback option is that it is retained as an English Heritage property open to the public.

English Heritage insisted on the Apethorpe buyer using it as a single residence. What’s wrong with it turning into a hotel or other use? 

• The house was designed as a single residence and therefore we would prefer that it continues to be used in this way.  If a single user cannot be found other alternative compatible uses may be considered. 

What grant conditions does English Heritage usually impose on owners? 

• A minimum of 28 days public access, and a requirement for grant to be repaid if the property is sold off. 

What grant conditions will be imposed on the potential Apethorpe buyer?

• The new owner will be required to complete the outstanding programme of essential major repairs to the remainder of the buildings (cost estimated at £4m).  A minimum of 28 days public access to the state rooms and gardens will be required.  These could be pre-booked guided tours rather than free access.  There will also be covenants to control the use and development of the property. 

Have you found a buyer for Apethorpe yet? 

• Negotiations with interested parties are ongoing.