Was this grand estate always destined for greatness? We stand before Franks Hall, a testament to centuries of history and transformation. This remarkable building, with its brick and flint facade, has witnessed eras rise and fall since its completion in 1591. Lancelot Bathurst, a prosperous London merchant, built Franks Hall on the ruins of an even older structure. Interestingly, the original Franks Hall, built in 1220, stood on the opposite side of the River Darent. You can still see traces of its foundation to this day! Lancelot, a staunch royalist, unfortunately, only enjoyed his grand creation for three years. Ownership passed through the Bathurst family line, each generation leaving its mark on the estate. In 1860, Robert Bradford, the new owner, undertook a grand renovation, transforming Franks Hall into the Victorian masterpiece we admire today. He meticulously redesigned the gardens and park, echoing the spirit of earlier centuries while adding Victorian flair. Over time, Franks Hall has seen numerous custodians, including a stint as the headquarters of Findlay Publications Ltd in 1980. Today, Franks Hall stands as a testament to the enduring power of history and the delicate balance between preservation and progress.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to