Granny'S Summerhouse

Granny's Summerhouse is a mid-19th century summerhouse located in Charlecote Park, built for Mary Elizabeth Lucy. This small, single-storey structure is designed in an L-shape and constructed of brick with rustic timbering applied to its exterior. It features a thatched roof and a brick end stack.

The west gable end is canted and has rustic timber surrounds around the openings. It includes a segmental-headed entrance with paired bark-panelled doors and flanking lights that contain stained glass with the dates 1826 and 1828. The south front has a canted bay window with a gablet and wood lattice glazing, positioned next to a small window with stained glass. There is also small cast-iron edging around narrow flower beds.

On the east side, there is a gabled bay that contains an aviary, featuring bark cladding below the openings, a meshed frame at the front, and projecting side nest boxes, along with a stained-glass window at the rear. The north front has a wing with a detached stack to the left of an oriel-like timber projection.

Inside, the summerhouse features reused timber fielded panelling, decorative woodwork, and stained glass throughout. There are two rooms with canted ceilings. The hall includes mirrored cupboard doors and a segmental arch leading to the main room, which has a fireplace and an overmantel.

This summerhouse was built for the children of Lady Mary Elizabeth Lucy and was inspired by Plas Newydd in Llangollen, the home of Lady Eleanor Butler and Hon. Sarah Ponsonby, whom Lady Mary Elizabeth Lucy visited as a child. The property is now owned by the National Trust.