“La Grava.” Does that sound familiar? That’s the earliest known name for what we now call The Grove.
Today we are exploring The Grove. It is an area steeped in history and prestige. The Grove offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.
Originally, The Grove marked the eastern boundary of an estate owned by the Warner family. They were prominent figures in the City of London during the 17th century. Their Tudor mansion, Dorchester House, stood where Witanhurst is now.
In 1688, William Blake built numbers 1 to 6 The Grove. He leased land at the rear of the garden. Sir Francis Pemberton built Grove House a decade earlier. Later, numbers 7 to 13 were built on the west side, starting in the early 19th century.
Until 1844, the village green and one of its ponds occupied the east side. The New River Company acquired the land. They built a covered reservoir to supply the village with piped water.
All the buildings in The Grove are listed, except numbers 12 and 13 and Old Well House. They are either Grade II or II*. Numbers 12 and 13 were built in 2015. Old Well House was built in the early 20th century.
The Grove has been home to many notable residents. No. 1 housed actress Gladys Cooper and journalist Patrick Sergeant. Violinist Yehudi Menuhin and musician Sting lived at No. 2. Poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge and model Kate Moss resided at No. 3.
Diplomat Sir Campbell Stuart and TV chef Jamie Oliver called No. 4 home. No. 5 was the residence of judge Sir Edward Fry and musician George Michael. Musician Annie Lennox lived at No. 6.
Robert John Lodge, manager of the Marine Insurance Co., lived at No. 7. Actors Robert Donat and Renée Asherson lived at No. 8. Politician Beresford Craddock and spy Anthony Blunt resided at No. 9. Scottish Comedian Stanley Baxter lived at Fitzroy Lodge.
One house has a particularly interesting story. Number 5, The Grove was rebuilt around 1933. During the remodeling, workers found 18th-century wallpapers hidden behind wooden paneling. They donated these wallpapers to the Victoria and Albert Museum. Before his death in 2016, George Michael tenanted here.
The Grove has also evolved into a modern luxury destination. The Grove Hotel is a five-star hotel. It sits on the Grand Union Canal. It hosted the G20 London summit in 2009 and the 2019 NATO summit.
The Grove offers fine dining at The Glasshouse and The Stables. There is a spa, golf course, and many activities. The Walled Garden features a tennis court and outdoor pool. Trails allow exploration of the natural surroundings.
From its humble beginnings to its current status, The Grove has seen many changes. Yet it retains its charm and significance. Its rich history and notable residents make it a special place in London. As you leave, remember the stories and the beauty of The Grove.