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Basing House, Hampshire

 

Entrance to Basing House. This image is copyright free

Basing House was built in 1530 by the 1st Marquis of Winchester, as the largest private house in England. It was situated in a strategic location on the main road from London to the west, just outside Basingstoke. Basing House is most famous for the role it played in the seventeenth century English Civil War. John Paulet, 5th Marquis of Winchester was devoutly catholic and completely loyal to Charles I. From the beginning of the Civil War between opponents and defenders of the king, Basing House acted as a base for catholics and royalists. Amongst the fugitives at Basing House were the engraver Wenceslaus Holler and architect Inigo Jones. As a sign of his commitment Paulet had the words "Aimez Loyaule" - Love Loyalty - scratched onto every window pane in the house using a diamond.

The final assault on the stronghold at Basing House took place between August and October 1645. Oliver Cromwell attacked with artillery, followed by an assault on Monday 13th October. One quarter of Basing's garrison was killed. Cromwell's soldiers then ransacked the house, which intentionally or otherwise, caught fire and burnt down. Paulet was captured and continued to yell defiance as he was led away to the Tower of London. What was left of Basing House was then demolished.

Now only the cellars and foundations of the Tudor mansion remain. The earthworks, built in Norman times, but used in the Civil War survive. There is a garden recreated in the style of 1600 within original Tudor garden walls.

Schools are offered guided tours of the site to support studies on Tudor or Civil War periods.

 

 

 

Opening Times: Basing House is currently closed until Summer 2010 for development. Site tours are still available, but contact the property first.

Directions: Basing House is near Basingstoke in Hampshire. Come off the M3 at junction 6, follow the A339 to the first roundabout and then turn right onto the A30 towards Hook. Click here for an interactive road and satellite map centred on Basing House.

Access: There is partial wheelchair access to the site, and designated parking.

Contact:

telephone: 01256 467294

web site: http://www3.hants.gov.uk/basing-house