Unraveling the History of Thoresby Estate Ownership: A Journey Through Time

Thoresby Hall, a grand country house nestled within the heart of the Nottinghamshire countryside, has a rich and fascinating history.

The estate in which Thoresby Hall is located, Thoresby Estate, has witnessed several changes in ownership over the centuries.

In this article, we will explore the lineage of Thoresby Estate, highlighting key dates, historical changes of ownership, and the current custodians of this captivating location.

Early Beginnings

The Thoresby Estate’s story begins in the 17th century with the Pierrepont family. In 1633, Robert Pierrepont, the 1st Earl of Kingston-upon-Hull, purchased the Thoresby lands.

The family’s ownership continued with his grandson, William Pierrepont, who started to build the first Thoresby Hall in 1670.

However, it wasn’t until the 4th Earl of Kingston-upon-Hull, Evelyn Pierrepont, took ownership in the early 18th century that the first Thoresby Hall was finally completed.

A New Era

The 3rd Duke of Kingston and the Construction of the Second Thoresby Hall The 3rd Duke of Kingston, Charles Medows, inherited Thoresby Estate in 1773. Born Charles Pierrepont, he changed his surname to Medows after inheriting his maternal uncle’s estates.

Under his direction, the second Thoresby Hall was constructed between 1785 and 1790. Designed by architect John Carr of York, the new Hall was a spectacular display of Georgian architecture, reflecting the prestige and wealth of the Pierrepont family.

A Time of Transition

The Earl Manvers and the Sale of the Estate Following the death of the 3rd Duke of Kingston in 1794, the estate passed to his nephew, Charles Herbert Pierrepont, who became the 1st Earl Manvers.

The Pierrepont family retained ownership of the estate until the early 20th century. However, the family experienced financial difficulties, and in 1925, Gervas Evelyn Pierrepont, the 6th Earl Manvers, decided to sell the Thoresby Estate.

The Hall, its contents, and a portion of the land were sold off in a high-profile auction.

The Budden Era

Thoresby Estate as a Mining Community In 1925, Thoresby Estate was purchased by coal mining entrepreneur, Sir Sydney Ford and Arthur Leslie Budden.

The estate underwent a significant transformation as the new owners set about developing a thriving coal mining community. Thoresby Colliery was established in 1925 and continued to operate until its closure in 2015.

During this period, the estate played a pivotal role in the local economy, providing employment and housing for hundreds of workers and their families.

The Warner Leisure Hotels Acquisition

A New Chapter for Thoresby Hall In 2000, Thoresby Hall was acquired by Warner Leisure Hotels, a subsidiary of Bourne Leisure, with plans to transform the historic building into a luxury hotel and spa.

The property underwent a meticulous restoration process, preserving its architectural beauty and historical features while introducing modern amenities for guests.

Today, Thoresby Hall operates as a Grade I listed hotel, offering a unique experience for visitors seeking a blend of heritage and contemporary luxury.

The Thoresby Estate Today

The ownership of the Thoresby Estate has come full circle with the Pierrepont family returning to stewardship in recent years.

Today, the estate is owned by Warner Leisure Hotels.