A History of Highcliffe Castle, Hampshire UK

A History of Highcliffe Castle, Hampshire UK

Few British buildings share the sheer grandeur and rich history of Highcliffe Castle, which is situated on the border of Dorset and Hampshire. The enchanting castle is officially recognised as a Grade 1 listed building of Special Architectural and Historical Interest and is held to be one of the finest surviving examples of the Picturesque and Romantic architectural style which rose to prominence in the latter half of the 18th century and beginning of the 19th century. Incredibly, the magnificent Highcliffe Castle is the realisation of the vision of just one man and its wonderful story is one of great interest.

The man was Lord Stuart de Rothesay, a famous diplomat in his time who from an early age had cherished the wonderful grounds on the top of the cliffs which give a stunning view out over beautiful Christchurch Bay. His grandfather, Lord Bute, had constructed a lavish mansion on the cliff top heathland, but Lord Stuart de Rothesay dared to dream bigger and resolved to construct his perfect home, which became the fantastic Highcliffe Castle that stands there today.

The construction was an arduous process which took place from 1831 to 1836. Wishing to construct a castle combining classic elements which harked back to a golden Gothic age, Lord Stuart de Rothesay spared no expense shipping large quantities of French masonry dating from the medieval period. The beautiful Norman stone that made its way across the Channel was incorporated into the structure of Highcliffe Castle, whose design features recalled the Gothic style which was beginning to enjoy something of a cultural revival among the social elite.

Desiring Highcliffe Castle to evoke the magic of a bygone era, Lord Stuart de Rothesay also incorporated his beloved stained glass collection which dated from the 12th to 19th centuries. Predominantly French, the collection also contained some marvellous Swiss and German works. Lord Stuart de Rothesay's most prized possession was a complete 16th century stained glass window referred to as the Jesse Window' which he set into the north window space within the Great Hall of Highcliffe Castle.

Highcliffe Castle remained a family home until 1950, when it was sold by the Stuart Wortley family. Turned into a children's convalescent home, which was forced to close in 1952 due to a scandal, for the next 13 years Highcliffe Castle was home to Catholic priests from the Claretian Missionary Congregation, who modified the Great Hall to contain a chapel of worship.

The tragic chapter of Highcliffe Castle's history began in 1967, when a fire caused extensive damage to the Great Hall. The following year another fire caused further ruin. Thoughtless vandals and the harsh elements soon rendered Highcliffe Castle derelict. The stark ruins stood pleading to be saved until 1994 when the combined efforts of Christchurch Council, English Heritage and the Friends of Highcliffe Castle Action Group kick-started the long process of reparation, restoration and conservation.

Run by the Christchurch Council as a popular tourist spot, art and exhibition centre and a magical wedding venue, today Highcliffe Castle stands majestic and restored to its original glory, a true testament to the unique vision of Lord Stuart de Rothesay.

POST COMMENT

Dell Vostro Series V1373-R23G Notebook A History of Sheriffs & the Modern Uniform How to Become Bookie and Its Main Requirements M.C. Mobility Systems mentioned in Assistive Technology Article! How To Tap Into The Infinite Web Traffic - Generating - Power of Articles MLM Success Story - How To Become One Free MLM Leads From Articles Christian Articles on the Reformation of the Church Master Cleanse Secrets Ebook Raylen Sterling The Engagement Ring Secrets eBook David L. Ross Art and History Come To Life in Kozhikode's Illustrious Pazhassiraja Museum The History of Yoghourt Points to review an eBook Reader Review