Inside The Historic Estate Once Visited By Winston Churchill

Ever fancied living in a home once visited by Winston Churchill? Or like the idea of sipping your morning tea to the sight of grazing safari animals and the whistles of a steam locomative? For those with such niche property checklists, Winterdyne could be the estate for you.

Winterdyne Estate: A History Of Churchill And Eccentric Women

Built back in 1760, Winterdyne Estate has a rich and storied history. Located in the market town of Bewdley, with a view of the River Severn, this 30 acre estate sits on top of a wooded ridge approached by a tree-lined drive equipped with a classical fountain. 

The History

Like many manor houses – such as in Evelyn Waugh’s fictional Brideshead – during World War II Winterdyne was used as an officer base to enable the generals to liaise with the Free-French officers. These were the officers from France who had refused their country’s surrender and armistice in 1940, and were stationed at the nearby Robbesford. The leader of Free France – a government exile fighting against the Nazi German rule – was General de Gaulle. Stationed at Winterdyne for some time during the war, it is rumoured that Winston Churchill met de Gaulle at Winterdyne when he was visiting his son there.

The property was later lived in by politician and benefactor Giles Shaw – brother-in-law to poet and hymn writer Francis Ridley Havergal. The creator of hymns such as Take My Life and Let It Be, she composed many of her hymns while on visits to Winterdyne. 

During Winterdyne’s time as an old person’s home in more recent memory, the Bewdley Fire Brigade reported numerous calls from the house – eventually totalling to 12 false alarms. Confused by the rogue calls, it eventually transpired that it was the same lady regularly pressing the alarm button, explaining that it brightened up her day to see all of the young firemen rush to her aid. 

But she was far from the first eccentric old woman who had occupied the estate. When Winterdyne was purchased by a widow named Mrs Beatrice Marion-Sturt in 1903, she refused to ever be driven anywhere in a car – much preferring her carriage and pair. While she also refused to introduce electricity into Winterdyne even up until the late 1930s. No need to fear, however, we promise they have working lightbulbs today. 

The Exterior

With two large parcels of agricultural land, the surrounding woodland provide privacy to the ring-fenced estate. Promising seclusion and tranquility, this is further enhanced by the formal landscapes and an expansive sun terrace with panoramic views. From the patio you can even catch sight of grazing safari animals from the nearby West Midlands Safari Park or listen out for the distant whistle of a steam locomotive which cuts through the Severn Valley. 

Inside

The main residence features seven bedroom suites, three reception rooms, a family kitchen with an AGA, a billiard room, a cinema, gym and home office. Period details abound, from Adam-style plasterwork ceilings to large glazing bar sash windows. The rest of the estate also includes two converted coach houses, an indoor pool and extensive garaging.  

The Fort, which has now been transformed into a summer house, reportedly was once used to watch for smugglers ascending the river. In 1779, fireworks were let off from The Fort and canons fired over the cliffs to celebrate the acquittal of one Admiral Augustus Keppel who was being court martialled for his behaviour during the American Revolutionary War. 

The Surrounding Area

The Georgian spa town of Bewdley boasts handsome streetscapes, independent shops, and a cafe-lined riverside, as well as a thriving calendar of arts events, food festivals and seasonal markets. And for those who prefer rurality, there are footpaths and walkways aplenty. Ideally situated just one mile from Bewdley and within easy reach of Kidderminster station, the estate offers the convenience of urban living in the heart of Worcestershire’s countryside.

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