The history of Lewtrenchard Manor

A mention in the Doomsday Book, crime, punishment and hotel ghosts

Lewtrenchard Manor, a stunning historical estate nestled in the heart of Devon, has a rich and captivating history stretching back over 900 years. From its first mention in the Domesday Book to its present-day standing as an idyllic country hotel, the story of Lewtrenchard Manor is one filled with intriguing characters, dramatic events, and lasting legacies. Read on to explore the fascinating journey of this iconic manor house. 

The Origins of Lewtrenchard Manor

The history of Lewtrenchard Manor, originally known as Lew House, dates back to 1086 AD. It is first recorded in the *Domesday Book* as a royal manor owned by the Sheriff of Devon and leased to a relative, Rogerius de Mole, for a rent of £4.00. Rogerius and his descendants are believed to have lived on the property until the early 14th century, when the Trenchard family took control.

The Trenchards, who are believed to have given the manor its current name, were likely the descendants of 'Les Trenchen,' meaning the "wood hewer." However, their time at the estate was relatively brief, lasting only a few generations before the property passed to the Monk family in 1556.

The Monk Family and the Civil Wars

The Monk family, hailing from Potheridge, acquired the estate through marriage. Sir Thomas Monk, however, faced significant financial troubles and was imprisoned in Exeter jail in 1623. His eldest son, George Monk, who would later play a pivotal role in English history, inherited Lewtrenchard but never had the chance to manage it. 

George Monk, a prominent military figure, initially supported the Parliamentarians during the English Civil War but switched allegiance to the Royalists, ultimately helping to restore King Charles II to the throne. As Admiral of the Fleet, George Monk escorted the king back to England in 1660, an act that earned him the title of Duke of Albemarle. His portrait still hangs in the front hall of Lewtrenchard Manor, serving as a reminder of the estate's deep historical connections.

The Gould Family and the Construction of the Manor

In 1626, the Gould family acquired Lewtrenchard from Sir Thomas Monk. Henry Gould, believed to be the first Gould to significantly develop the estate, married Ann Wills, and their initials are still carved above the fireplace in the front hall. Though the Goulds spent much of their time at Floyer Hayes in Exeter, Henry's death in 1636 led Ann to return to Lewtrenchard to live out her widowhood in the Dower House, a property built for her by their son, Edward Gould.

Tragedy and Mystery: The Death of Susanna Gould

The Gould family's legacy is not without its tragedies. In 1713, Henry Gould's daughter Susanna married Peter Truscott, a union her father disapproved of. After the ceremony, Susanna tragically collapsed and died on the way back to Lew House. While some claim she died from heart failure, others speculate she was poisoned, possibly due to the feud between the families. Many believe her restless spirit haunts the grounds of Lewtrenchard, and she is often seen as a ghostly white figure walking the driveway.

The Scamp and the Gambler: Edward Gould's Wild Adventures

Edward Gould, the third son of Henry and Ann, inherited Lewtrenchard in 1667. Known as "The Scamp," Edward was notorious for his gambling and reckless behavior. One infamous story tells of how, after losing a large sum of money in a card game, he disguised himself as a highwayman and attempted to rob his fellow player. The victim, however, recognized Edward, leading to a dramatic trial where Edward's lawyer, John Dunning, managed to get him acquitted through a clever manipulation of evidence.

Despite his antics, Edward was able to retain Lewtrenchard, thanks to his mother's financial acumen. "Old Madam," as she was affectionately known, worked tirelessly to restore the estate's fortunes, even overseeing significant extensions to the manor in the 1770s. Her determined spirit is said to linger in the house to this day, and many believe she haunts the property, especially around the dining room where she passed away in 1796.

The Baring-Gould Legacy

After the death of "Old Madam," the estate passed to her grandson, William Baring-Gould, who inherited Lewtrenchard under the condition that he add "Gould" to his name. Despite his wealth and family connections, William was often short of money and not particularly fond of Lewtrenchard, which he reluctantly took on. However, his family ties would eventually lead to the most famous figure associated with the manor—Sabine Baring-Gould, the renowned writer, and folklorist, whose family history is intricately tied to Lewtrenchard Manor.

A Legacy that Lives On

The fascinating history of Lewtrenchard Manor is one of triumphs, tragedies, and mysteries that have shaped its enduring legacy. From its origins in the *Domesday Book* to its association with the Baring-Gould family, Lewtrenchard Manor stands as a testament to the rich history of Devon and the fascinating characters who once called it home. Today, the manor continues to be a place of intrigue, with its ghosts, stories, and architectural transformations captivating visitors from near and far. Whether you're interested in history, folklore, or simply the beauty of the estate itself, Lewtrenchard Manor offers a window into the past that is as compelling as it is timeless.