Who knew a grand Victorian house could hold so many secrets? This is Athlone House. Originally Caen Wood Towers it stands proudly on the edge of Hampstead Heath. Built around 1872 for Edward Brooke a wealthy industrialist its design is a beautiful blend of Dutch and classical styles. Look at the intricate brickwork the tall gables. The many turrets.
Edward Brooke wasn’t just any industrialist. He was a Justice of the Peace a commissioner for the Lieutenancy of the City of London. He was also a partner in an aniline dye manufacturing firm. Imagine the vibrant colours of those dyes. They probably contrasted beautifully with the brickwork of Athlone House.
After Brooke the house passed through various hands. Francis Reckitt a partner in Reckitt and Sons lived here. He was a philanthropist. He donated generously to establish public institutions. The Reckitt Convalescent Home for instance. Quite a legacy for this house to be connected with.
Then came Sir Francis Cory-Wright a prominent figure in the coal distribution business. He’s remembered for his efforts to preserve Queen’s Wood a nearby area of Hampstead Heath. He died here in 1909.
Sir Robert Waley Cohen the Managing Director of the Shell Company lived in Athlone House for over two decades. His wife Lady Waley Cohen hosted many social events. The garden was used for charity fetes and parties. A true hub of Highgate society.
During World War II Athlone House became RAF Station Highgate a secret RAF intelligence school. Over 6000 officers trained here. The school’s true purpose was kept secret. It operated under the guise of a convalescence hospital. Can you imagine the clandestine activities within those walls?
After the war Athlone House became a National Health Service home for dementia patients. It remained so until 2003 when it was sadly left derelict. This impressive house fell into disrepair. Until quite recently.
In 2016 Russian oligarch Mikhail Fridman purchased Athlone House for a reported 65 million pounds. He undertook an extensive restoration. The restoration work included a new roof which won an award for Best Use of a Heritage Roof. The house is now a stunning private residence. Its history is secured for years to come. Athlone House has a rich and compelling past. A story of industry philanthropy and wartime secrecy all contained within its magnificent walls.