Brocket Hall

Heritage Site in Hertfordshire Welwyn Hatfield

England

Brocket Hall

Waterend Looking North from TL204136 to the ford at Waterend on the River Lea, West of Welwyn Garden City. It&#039;s dry, but the water only has to rise a foot or so to flood the road - hence the little footbridge so people can cross without getting their feet wet. — Waterend Credit: Rob Hinkley

Brocket Hall is a historic country estate located in Hertfordshire, England. Situated approximately 22 miles north of London, it spans over 543 acres of lush parkland. The estate is renowned for its grand Georgian architecture and picturesque surroundings, making it a popular destination for visitors and an exclusive venue for various events.

The history of Brocket Hall dates back to the 13th century when a manor house was built on the site. Over the centuries, it has been home to several notable figures, including two British Prime Ministers – Lord Melbourne and Lord Palmerston. The current mansion, designed by renowned architect James Paine, was constructed in the mid-18th century and has since undergone various renovations and expansions.

Brocket Hall is known for its stunning interiors, featuring exquisite period furniture, ornate ceilings, and lavish decorations. The estate also boasts magnificent gardens and parkland, designed by famous landscape architect Humphry Repton. Visitors can explore the beautifully manicured lawns, lakes, and woodland, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling city life.

In addition to its historical and architectural significance, Brocket Hall offers world-class facilities for leisure and hospitality. It is home to a luxury hotel, boasting individually designed rooms and suites, a spa, and a championship golf course. The estate also serves as a premier venue for weddings, corporate events, and private functions, offering a range of elegant spaces and impeccable services.

Overall, Brocket Hall stands as a testament to the rich heritage and natural beauty of Hertfordshire, attracting visitors from all over the world to experience its timeless charm and grandeur.

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Brocket Hall Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.807/-0.237 or Grid Reference TL2113. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Waterend

Looking North from TL204136 to the ford at Waterend on the River Lea, West of Welwyn Garden City. It's dry, but the water only has to rise a foot or so to flood the road - hence the little footbridge so people can cross without getting their feet wet.

Rob Hinkley

Waterend house

The large house just North of the ford (TL204137)

Rob Hinkley

Brocket Hall gates

Looking south from TL218139 to the gates of Brocket Hall - home of convicted fraudster and annoying D-list reality TV celeb Lord Brocket. Most of the rest of the grid square South of here is private, and judging by the spikes, CCTV and "STOP" notices I don't think he'll let you in.

Rob Hinkley

Greenway bridge

Looking South to a bridge at TL209145 which carries the Ayot Greenway - a length of old railway line converted into cycle path and bridleway, covering most of the way from Wheathampstead to Welwyn Garden City.

Rob Hinkley

Ayot Greenway

Looking West from TL218146 along the greenway - a length of abandoned railway line running most of the way from Wheathampstead to Welwyn Garden City.

Rob Hinkley

Church, Ayot St Peter, from afar.

Peering North from TL218146, through the trees at the edge of the old railway line & across the fields to the church in Ayot St Peter (TL218149)

Rob Hinkley

Ayot St Peter Church

Taken from the road looking WSW towards the Church

Simon Davies

Brocket Hall, Lemsford

This is the view one gets from the highway.

Jack Hill

Ayot St Peter

The church seems to be operational but where would the congregation come from?

Jack Hill

Ayot St Peter

This building is next door to the church. Looks like it was the school but is now a house

Jack Hill

Milepost on Great North Rd

This broken milepost stands on the old Great North Rd. This is now the B197 Stevenage to Welwyn Garden City road. In fact most people making this journey use the A1 which runs parallel and about 50 yards to the left. This milepost is cast iron and has been broken at some stage. This is the road that Dick Turpin would have ridden from York to London on.

Robin Hall

Parkway - Welwyn Garden City.

A broad avenue in the centre of the town. Stretches well into the next square north.

Robin Hall

Campus West - Welwyn Garden City

Arts centre, Library and Theatre at the top end of Parkway.

Robin Hall

Lemsford mill and the River Lea.

Taken from the very edge of the square facing the mill.

Robin Hall

Lemsford Village.

To the left, and not possible to get a view of at this point is the River Lea. This photograph is taken from the Welwyn Garden City - Lemsford road. The pub in the distance is the "Long Arm and the Short Arm". The pub sign depicts a wooden lever arm that indicated the depth of the water at the crossing point of the River Lea of the ancient Great North Road. When the arm was in the dropped or raised position it showed the depth of water to the horse drawn waggoners and other users.

Robin Hall

River from Waterend Ford

View of the River Lea taken from Waterend Ford looking South-East

Richard Mills

Wellhead

This is the head mechanism for a well. Largely complete but the cover is missing. Locally made and originally driven by a separate (steam traction?) engine, possibly as a water source for a steam plough? Located near the top of a hill just south of Threegroves Wood. There is a concrete structure about two metres high, possibly for a water tank. TL203148

Richard Mills