logo
Chavenage

Chavenage

Chavenage is a wonderful Elizabethan house of mellow grey Cotswold stone and tiles which contains much of interest for the discerning visitor. The approach aspect of Chavenage is virtually as it was left by Edward Stephens in 1576. Only two families have owned Chavenage; the present owners since 1891 and the Stephens family before them. A Colonel Nathaniel Stephens, MP for Gloucestershire during the Civil War was cursed for supporting Cromwell, giving rise to legends of weird happenings at Chavenage since that time. There are many interesting rooms housing tapestries, fine furniture, pictures and relics of the Cromwellian period. Of particular note are the Main Hall, where a contemporary screen forms a minstrels’ gallery and two tapestry rooms where it is said Cromwell was lodged. Recently Chavenage has been used as a location for TV and film productions including a Hercule Poirot story The Mysterious Affair at Styles, many episodes of the sequel to Are you Being Served called Grace & Favour, episodes of The House of Elliot, Casualty, Berkeley Square and Cider with Rosie. In 2005 it was one of the homes Jeremy Musson visited in the BBC’s The Curious House Guest. Chavenage has recently doubled as Candleford Manor in the BBC costume drama Lark Rise to Candleford. Scenes from the series Bonekickers and Tess of the D’Urbervilles were shot at Chavenage in 2008. Chavenage is especially suitable for those wishing an intimate, personal tour, usually conducted by the owner or his family, or for groups wanting a change from large establishments. Meals for pre-arranged groups have proved hugely popular. It also provides a charming venue for wedding receptions, small conferences and other functions.