Despite setbacks, The Poltimore House Trust and its dedicated volunteers are determined to help this historic community asset rise from the ashes once more
Built in the 17th century, Poltimore House is a Grade II* listed country house set in 13 acres outside Exeter in Devon. Originally owned by the Bampfylde family up until 1920, it was later used as a school and private hospital. Following the hospital’s closure in 1974, the house was left empty; it suffered an arson attack and subsequent vandalism, leaving it in a precarious state.
Image: Poltimore House in the 1950s. Courtesy of Poltimore House Trust.
The Poltimore House Trust was formed in 2000 with an aim to bring the House and Grounds back into use for the community, nature and future generations. Over the past couple of years, the Trust has made good progress - Poltimore House and Grounds has become a hub for the local community, offering a farm shop, café, open house sessions and events.
The Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) is pleased to have been able to support the Trust’s plans with loan investment of £30,000, which has now been repaid. These loan funds, alongside support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, allowed the development of a usable space in the ruined Poltimore House estate laundry, providing the Trust with facilities from which they could build up a programme of public access and events.
Images: A fundraising event at the Poltimore House café (left) and Ukrainian National Day Celebrations on Poltimore House Grounds (right). Credit - Politmore House Trust.
Sadly, Poltimore House suffered yet another disastrous fire in April of this year. As well as causing substantial damage to a number of historic rooms, including the rococo salon, this has also delayed plans to bring spaces within the building back into use. However, the Trust’s spirit is unwavering, and it is committed as ever to bringing the House and Grounds back to life. While continuing to run the café and shop and deliver public events, it is also working tirelessly to develop plans for the future and welcome in more visitors. If you would like to help the ongoing fundraising efforts, you can find more information on the Trust's Crowdfunder page.
The AHF has a range of funds, including loan investment, available for not-for-profit organisations across the UK who want to bring historic buildings back into use. To learn more, please visit our website.
