Fascinating history resides within these walls. This is Stanhope House. Today we will explore its past.
Stanhope House’s story begins with two tenements leased by Henry VIII. These were given to Robert Hopkyn and Roger Weston. Let’s delve into the details of these early properties.
In 1534-35, Robert Hopkyn paid 4 pounds rent annually for his tenement. This was next to “le Whytehorse” to the north. By 1543, Robert Hayward alias Perry held the tenement. He got it rent-free for life from Henry VIII.
Hayward surrendered his patent in 1552. He then received a fresh grant for himself and his wife, Elizabeth. In 1560, the Queen sold the house to Thomas Reve and George Evelyn. It was then occupied by Robert “Heyward alias Pery” and Elizabeth.
After Hayward’s death, his widow remarried twice. In 1580, Thomas “Sandyforth,” Elizabeth, and Thomas “Haywarde alias Perrye” transferred the property to Humphrey Foster. This transfer was “in perpetuum,” suggesting a freehold interest. This property eventually came into Stanhope’s possession.
The other tenement was occupied by Roger Weston. He paid 30 shillings rent in 1534-35. His son, Andrew Weston, received a grant of the premises in 1547-38 for 21 years. Andrew surrendered and obtained fresh grants in 1563 and 1574.
Andrew Weston died in 1588-9. His widow, Joan, and son, William, conveyed their interest to Thomas Dabridgecourt. Before April 4, 1589, Dabridgecourt assigned his estate to John Stanhope.
William Necton, deputy surveyor, reported the building’s condition. It was built into the street with only two stories. The backyard was converted into a yard with sheds. John Stanhop wanted to rebuild if granted more years. He received a 50-year lease due to the premises’ condition.
In 1590, the Queen granted the reversion of the property to Sir Francis Knollys. Knollys sold it to Stanhope for 149 pounds 10 shillings. Stanhope then had the unencumbered freehold of the premises. He lived in the parish of St. Martin’s for thirty years.
In 1602, his house was broken into. Stanhope died in 1621. He left the house to his wife in his will. Lady Stanhope died at “Stanhope House, Charing Cross” in 1640.
Charles, Lord Stanhope, likely succeeded his father. Lady Stanhope’s name appears in ratebooks for several years. Later, the Duke of Ormonde and the Duke of Albemarle resided there. Sir Joseph Williamson lived there from 1676 to 1679.
In 1679-80, Lady Stanhope sold “Stanhope house” to Joseph “Cragg” for 2,650 pounds. Craig demolished the house. He built seven houses forming Stanhope Court.
In the mid-18th century, street widening led to the purchase of four houses from Philip Craig. The remaining land was sold back to Craig. He built three new houses facing the street, which became Nos. 46 to 48, Charing Cross. Today, the Liverpool and London and Globe Insurance Company and Drummond’s Bank occupy these sites.
Stanhope House evolved dramatically through the centuries. From royal tenements to a grand residence and then shops, its story is intertwined with London’s history. Remember this rich history as you pass by.