Photo source: Distribution_of_the_"Duch"-verdict_(4).jpg: Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia derivative work: FishInWater, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Vann is a Grade II* listed historic house in Surrey, and a member of Historic Houses. Read about its history, architecture and gardens, plus how to visit and what's nearby.
About Vann
Vann is a historic family house at Hambledon, near Godalming in Surrey, with origins in the 16th century and additions made in nearly every century since.
The five-acre garden around it is Grade II* listed and includes a water garden designed by Gertrude Jekyll in 1911.
The house remains a private home, and the garden is open on selected days or by appointment.
History of Vann
The Caröe family has been associated with Vann from approximately 1907 onwards. W.D. Caröe, an architect connected to the family, added a pergola of Bargate stone to the grounds. Gertrude Jekyll supplied planting and design for the Water Garden in 1911. Yew hedges enclosing the old rose garden, now the Yew Walk, were planted in 1909. In 2008, the garden's centenary border was created to mark a significant milestone of family stewardship.
Architecture of Vann
The house has been extended in stages from its 16th-century core through to the 20th century, giving it a layered, organic structure rather than a single architectural style. W.D. Caröe designed a Bargate stone pergola, and the garden also features a crinkle-crankle wall behind the greenhouse.
Worth knowing
The Water Garden was designed in 1911 by Gertrude Jekyll, who supplied many of the original damp-loving plants, including ferns and pulmonaria, some of which still grow there.
Gardens & grounds at Vann
The five-acre, Grade II* listed garden is arranged as a series of distinct rooms, from a cottage garden at the front to Jekyll's water garden, a yew walk, and a potager-style vegetable garden.
Plan your visit to Vann
Nearest station: Witley Rail Station (2.1 miles)
Open on selected days or by appointment; check official website for current opening arrangements.
Places to visit near Vann
Oakhurst Cottage
View Oakhurst Cottage on heritage mapWitley Common
View Witley Common on heritage mapDevil's Punch Bowl
View Devil's Punch Bowl on heritage mapHistoric places nearby
Within 5 miles of Vann there are 3 historic properties, including 3 historic buildings.
Within 10 miles of Vann there are 12 historic properties, including 10 historic buildings, across National Trust, Churches Conservation Trust and English Heritage sites.
Within 20 miles of Vann there are 35 historic properties, including 17 historic buildings, 10 historic houses and 3 churchs, across National Trust, Historic Houses and Churches Conservation Trust sites.
Facts
A working Gertrude Jekyll water garden still tended by the family who commissioned it over a century ago.
- Type
- historic house
- Location
- Surrey, England
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