“Lights, camera, action!” Ever wonder where film crews seek out the perfect English country backdrop? It is often at Munden House.
Munden House stands proudly between Watford, Radlett, and Bricket Wood. This Hertfordshire gem is more than just a pretty facade. It is a Grade II listed building with stories etched into its very stones.
The history of Munden House goes way back. Historians think that a manorial residence existed here from early age. Maybe it occupied the same site as the present house.
Let us talk about the family who call Munden House home. Since 1607, when Thomas Ewer of the Lea acquired the property, it has remained within the same family. This is quite unusual. The property has never been sold on the open market. The present occupants are direct descendants of Thomas Ewer. The line of inheritance has passed through cousins.
Originally, the Munden Estate was much larger. It included Lea Farm. Today, the Meriden housing estate and parts of Garston cover this area. The Lea Farm buildings were demolished around 1935. This made way for the A41 trunk road and Sainsburys store.
Munden House itself was completed in 1795. Later, it received Gothic Revival additions in 1828 and 1851. R.S. Parker was the client and R. Geldham was the architect for the 1851 renovation.
Munden House is the family seat of Henry Holland-Hibbert, Viscount Knutsford. He is also Lord of the Manor of Bricket Wood Common. A ford on the River Colne is located near Munden House, along the Hertfordshire Way. The river lodge also sits on the Hertfordshire Way. It marks the end of what used to be an avenue leading to the house.
Though Munden House is a private residence, it has become a star in its own right. It has served as a film location for many productions. You might recognize it from “Mrs Dalloway”. Or perhaps from “Rosemary & Thyme”, where it was known as “Engleton Park”. Munden House has also appeared in “Midsomer Murders”, “Poirot”, “Jonathan Creek”, “Endeavour”, and “Silent Witness”.
Today, the Munden Estate spans approximately 1,000 acres. It encompasses residential and commercial properties. The estate includes agricultural land and woodland. Renewable energy projects thrive here. There is also a popular equestrian center. Munden House offers locations for filming and hospitality.
Munden House is not generally open to the public. However, it hosts weddings and corporate events. Its unique location inside the M25, just 17 miles from Marble Arch, makes it a sought-after venue.
So, as you stand before Munden House remember its long history. Think about the Ewer family and its role in film. This Hertfordshire treasure is a testament to time.