Contemplate this: a country house steeped in history, serving as a sanctuary for Britain’s Prime Ministers. This is The Chequers. It stands not just as a building, but as a symbol of leadership and respite.
The Chequers has been the official country home of the serving Prime Minister since 1921. It lies nestled near Ellesborough in Buckinghamshire. This 16th-century manor offers a retreat from the pressures of London. It’s a place where leaders can unwind.
The origin of the name “Chequers” is interesting. Some believe it comes from Elias Ostiarius. He was an early owner of the manor in the 12th century. His coat of arms featured a chequer board. Others suggest the name derives from the chequer trees. These trees grow in the grounds.
William Hawtrey built the current mansion around 1565. He may have reconstructed an earlier building. A reception room still bears his name. Soon after construction, The Chequers became a temporary prison. Lady Mary Grey, a relative of Henry VII, was confined here. Queen Elizabeth I banished her for marrying without consent. She lived at The Chequers from 1565 to 1567. The room where she slept remains in its original condition.
Over the centuries, The Chequers passed through several families. These included the Wooleys, Crokes, Thurbanes and Russells. In 1715, it came into the Russell family through John Russell. He was a grandson of Oliver Cromwell. The house is known for its Cromwell connection. It houses a large collection of Cromwell memorabilia.
In the 19th century, the Greenhill-Russell family altered the house. They employed Henry Rhodes to make Gothic-style changes. Bertram Astley restored The Chequers to its Elizabethan origins between 1892 and 1901.
In 1909, Arthur Lee and his wife Ruth leased The Chequers. They further restored the interior. During World War I, The Chequers served as a hospital. After the war, the Lees gifted The Chequers to the nation. They intended it as a country retreat for Prime Ministers. The Chequers Estate Act of 1917 formalized this gift.
The Lees left The Chequers in January 1921. A stained glass window commemorates their gift. It calls The Chequers a place of rest and recreation for Prime Ministers forever.
The property houses a significant collection of Cromwellian art. It also holds national antiques and books. These are kept in the long room.
During World War II, Winston Churchill initially avoided The Chequers. He felt security was inadequate. He used Ditchley in Oxfordshire until security improved.
In 2007, The Chequers estate became a protected site. Trespassing became a criminal offense. In 2018, Theresa May held a Cabinet meeting at The Chequers. They agreed on the UK’s approach to Brexit. In 2020, Boris Johnson recovered at The Chequers after a severe case of COVID-19.
Downing Street and The Chequers are about 41 miles apart. The Ridgeway National Trail crosses the private drive.
The Chequers stands as a testament to British history. It is a place of peace and ancient memories. It continues to serve its intended purpose. It provides a sanctuary for the nation’s leaders.