Cadhay facts for kids
Cadhay is a beautiful old estate in Devon, England. It's about 10 miles (16 km) east of Exeter. The main building, called Cadhay House, is a famous Elizabethan house. It's considered a very important historical building (a grade I listed building).
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The History of Cadhay House
Cadhay House was built around a central courtyard. It stands on the site of an even older house. The oldest part, a large hall, dates back to 1420.
Who Built Cadhay House?
The house you see today was mostly built in 1550. It was built by a man named John Haydon (who died in 1587). He was a lawyer from Lincoln's Inn. John Haydon married Joan Grenvill, whose family owned Cadhay before him.
John Haydon didn't have any children. So, he left Cadhay to his great-nephew, Robert Haydon (1560-1626). Robert later added a "long gallery" to the house. This gallery completed the courtyard design.
Changes Over the Years
Over time, Cadhay House needed repairs. By 1737, it was in poor condition. A new owner, Peere Williams, fixed it up. He changed the style to a more modern "Georgian" look. He also added a new ceiling to the Great Hall. This created a dining room and another room above it.
During the 1700s and 1800s, the house was sometimes split into two homes. It fell into disrepair again.
Bringing Cadhay Back to Life
In 1910, Dampier Whetham bought Cadhay. He worked to restore the house. He uncovered old fireplaces and made sure the building was strong again.
Later, in the 1920s, the William-Powlett family rented the house. They loved it so much they bought it in 1935. They lived there until 2002.
In 2002, Rupert Thistlethwayte inherited Cadhay. He is a furniture maker and a nephew of the last William-Powlett. He worked hard to make the house beautiful again. He also added modern comforts like heating and new bathrooms. He even added some of his own furniture designs.
The Famous Courtyard Statues
One of the most special parts of Cadhay House is its courtyard. There are four statues from 1617 above the doors. These statues show important English rulers:
- King Henry VIII
- King Edward VI
- Queen Mary I
- Queen Elizabeth I
