Can you picture Prince Henry, the eldest son of King James I, strolling through these grand halls? Charlton House, a magnificent Jacobean manor, was built between 1607 and 1612 for his tutor, Sir Adam Newton. Sir Adam was Dean of Durham and had been entrusted with the education of the young prince. The house was a testament to the grandeur of the era, showcasing intricate plasterwork ceilings, beautiful fireplaces, and an original oak staircase. The house also boasts a majestic Grand Salon, where you can still spot the initials ‘JR’ (for James I) and the royal Stuart coat of arms. Even the garden house, or orangery, is attributed to the famous architect Inigo Jones, although this isn’t confirmed. But undoubtedly, it’s one of the most fascinating aspects of Charlton House. The orangery, now converted into a public toilet, is a humorous reminder of the changing times and the house’s adaptability through centuries. Charlton House has witnessed several periods of transformation, from a royal residence to a wartime hospital, and finally to a museum and now a community hub. It was even used as a filming location for the 2000 film ‘Monarch’. Today, it’s a living embodiment of history, a place where the past and present intertwine, inviting us to explore its grandeur and embrace its stories.
Southfields Methodist Church
Curiosity stirred within the heart of Southfields as a new chapter began. Southfields Methodist Church held its first public service