A Little Bit of History

In our endeavour to restore the house to its former glory, it was important to look at history. The Land for the house was purchased in 1727 and this original plot was "bell shaped" - hence the name, which still holds true 280 years later - Bellplot House.

The house was built in 1729 in mid Georgian style. It has a chequered past which includes being owned at one time by a Malaysian rubber planter - Mr. Norman Gowler. However, the deeds show that the majority of the owners were in fact female.

The first on record were four spinsters, Anne, Mary, Sarah and Lydia Leman, sisters of John Leman who owned the brewery, then housed in the 'Maltings' opposite the Bellplot House. The next ladies on record were sisters Susan and Florence Spicer, and finally the last owner Rosemary Durie. It is after these ladies that the bedrooms have been named.