Voel House

In 1713, a transaction involving Voel House appeared in court records. Sir Francis Blake and his wife Elizabeth transferred ownership of the house to Joseph Saunders. The record referred to “a messuage in Highgate in the tenure of John Ripper, and the Walke”. Voel House stands proudly on South Grove, a testament to its rich history. The house dates back to the late 16th or early 17th century. Later, in the 18th century, it underwent significant alterations and refronting, giving it the appearance you see today. Voel House boasts a Grade II* listing, a recognition of its exceptional architectural and historical value. Look closely and you’ll see red brick construction, accented with multi-color stock brick in a second-floor addition. The ground floor offers a contrasting texture with its stucco finish. A wooden, architraved doorcase, complete with carved consoles, a pulvinated frieze, and a cornice welcomes visitors. A narrow rectangular fanlight and panelled door add to its elegance. The windows feature gauged red brick flat arches and exposed boxing around flush sashes. A more recent addition, a 20th-century canted bay ground floor window, sits to the left of the entrance, topped with a distinctive penthouse roof. A molded brick band elegantly marks the 2nd-floor level, topped by a parapet. While we can’t explore inside today, Voel House is known to have a remarkable interior. It features an early 17th-century staircase and other well-preserved historical elements. Voel House was once known simply as number 18 South Grove. It stands next to the site of what was once South Grove House, number 19. The two shared a similar layout with a central hall and staircase flanked by rooms on either side. Voel House has held a special place in Highgate’s history. It has witnessed the changing landscape and the lives of those who called it home. From court records to architectural details, Voel House whispers stories of centuries past.