An evening with Caroline Lowsley Williams
And the fascinating story of her family’s home – Chavenage House
Chavenage House
Originally built in 1383, there have been many additions and renovations to the property over the centuries. Since Tudor times, only two families have owned Chavenage, the current owner David Lowsley-Williams having inherited the House from his uncle.
The main historical interest centres on the English Civil War, when the house was owned by Col. Nathaniel Stephens MP for Gloucestershire. He was persuaded against his better judgement to vote for Charles I’s impeachment and subsequent execution. Soon after the King was beheaded, Col. Stephens died and it is said that his ghostly form was seen leaving Chavenage in a carriage driven by a headless coachman wearing the Royal vestments.
These days, the property is very much a family home even though it is open to the public on a part-time basis.
On the set of Poldark
Actor Aiden Turner
About Caroline Lowsley Williams
Following 12 years in the Cattle Auctioneering world, Caroline Lowsley Williams came back home to assist her parents David & Rona Lowsley-Williams in running Chavenage . She and her elder brother George and younger sister Joanna, all grew up here.
They aim to keep the house primarily as a family home but also to take every opportunity in making money. Caroline has had hands on experience from the lowest menial jobs of car parking, furniture moving, cleaning, polishing, gardening, bookkeeping, guiding etc. to the running of the ‘house’ business as well as giving talks to interested groups
Chavenage will be recognised by many as the setting for many Film and TV productions including the BBC’s re-make of Poldark as Trenwith. Previously the house was seen as Candleford Manor in ‘Lark Rise to Candleford’ and many others.
Caroline sits on the Tourism and Commercial Development Committee of Historic Houses and is Hon. Secretary for the Heart of England Region of the H.H.
Hearing Loop
The Shed has a hearing loop for all who appreciate a little help hearing the audio systems.
We simply that ask you to bring your own headphones, to use with one of our receivers. You can reserve one by calling the office on 01666 505496.
Concessions
Please note: Identification may be asked for to prove eligibility for any concessions.
