The one thousand hectare West Woodhay estate lies in the centre of the North Wessex Downs AONB. The house is surrounded by fifteen acres of garden and arboretum, sitting in the centre of the farm it has spectacular views up to Wessex downs .

West Woodhay House was built in 1635 by Sir Benjamin Rudyard using the leading architect of his time, Inigo Jones. The West Woodhay Estate was purchased by the Henderson family in 1920 when the house was much larger in size having been added onto in the Victorian era.

After the Second World War John and Sarah Henderson, parents of the current occupier, decided to make West Woodhay their family home by returning the house to its original size and look; with a few differences.

The tour will take in the farm and gardens. The farming operation was an early adopter of a conservation agricultural policy introducing zero till across the entire estate until 2008.

The gardens are magnificent and when Harry and Sarah Henderson took up residence in 1994 they created a new arboretum, themed on bark and berry, and extended the lakes directly to the south of the original lake in front of the house.

The new Jubilee garden was created in 2012 and then in 2018 the delightful Italian Garden. Built sympathetically in the foundations of the old Vanbrugh Church, this garden is a tranquil area with a Mediterranean feel.

We will meet for refreshments at 9.30am before the AGM and the address from one of the CLA Officers. This will be followed by a drinks reception, lunch and tour.

To join us, please register below. The cost is £37.50 +VAT.

This event will only run if Covid guidelines permit. If the event is cancelled, we will offer you a full refund.

For more information, contact the South East Office on 01264 313434 or southeast@cla.org.uk