Headington House

Enclosed by its high walls, Headington House whispers tales of centuries past. Headington House stands here before you, a hidden gem in the heart of Old Headington. Built between 1775 and 1783, Headington House emerged during a period of transformation. The newly constructed London Road had made Headington a desirable location for the gentry. Originally built for William Jackson, the founder of Jackson’s Oxford Journal, Headington House became more than just a grand residence. It became the manor house for the smaller manor of Heddington when Jackson inherited the title of Lord of the Manor. Over the years, Headington House has witnessed a fascinating procession of residents. From Sackville Francis Lloyd, who likely rented the house from Jackson in the 1790s, to the Latimers, a family of wine merchants who occupied the house for nearly three decades, each family has left its mark on this historic home. The Latimers’ diaries offer a glimpse into the lives of Headington gentry during the early 19th century. They moved permanently to Headington House in August 1818. The family held meetings of the Headington Branch of the Mid-Oxon Liberal Association on the grounds. After the Latimers, the Undershells, later known as the Woottens, bought Headington House. The Wootten family significantly altered the estate. They likely built the bridges over Cuckoo Lane and the current lodge. William Wootten-Wootten’s sudden death in 1887 and his wife’s passing in 1904 marked the end of another era for Headington House. The house then went through a period of sales and auctions in the early 20th century. Albert Henry Franklin, who acquired the house and surrounding parkland in 1912, played a key role in Headington’s development. He sold portions of the land for housing, contributing to the growth of Old High Street and Stephen Road. Franklin’s connection to the area is commemorated in Franklin Road. Later occupants included Walter Stoye and Aline Halban. Aline married the renowned philosopher and historian Sir Isaiah Berlin in 1956. They resided at Headington House until his death in 1997. A blue plaque now adorns the gate. Headington House remains a private residence. It stands as a testament to the ever-changing landscape of Headington, a place where history and modernity intertwine.