Green Getaways
« Back to all listings in Green Getaways
Northcourt isn’t just a fine Grade II listed manor house; it is, quite simply, the largest manor house on the Isle of Wight – an immense historic stone house recognised by English Heritage as one of only eight on the Island of national importance.
But don’t be misled: behind the grand stone façade, magnificent from every aspect of the 14-acre grounds on the edge of pretty Shorwell, Northcourt is very much a family home. True, there are huge panelled bedrooms brimming with period character and magnificently proportioned living rooms – which include a billiard and music room, but the atmosphere is informal and there are homely touches throughout, thanks to owners John and Christine Harrison.
The Harrisons have spent 26 years nurturing 17th century Northcourt – and preserving its artistic tradition. In the past, Turner painted here and Swinburne wrote one of his epic poems in the library. These days the Harrisons welcome local school children for writing sessions and encourage musicians to visit and perform, whilst artists come to paint in the gardens.
And what gardens. Astonishing in their scope, these include a knot garden brimming with herbs, an Italian garden, planted sub tropical style with palms, bananas and castor oils for dramatic leaf effect and a stream garden. Expect to find the exotic and unusual alongside England’s most traditional favourites as you wander the terraces and extensive grounds.
Website version
You are receiving the Mainland UK version of this website. You can change your preference to our Isle of Wight version.
Keep up-to-date
with our latest events, news and competitions by logging on to Facebook or Twitter.
