HOUSES

Some 'great houses' and 'humble homes' feature here. Many of the cottages that look so picturesque on postcards were no doubt draughty, damp and creaky to live in and have been replaced by modern bungalows. The 'virtual tour' gives some idea of those that have now disappeared. If you recognise any of these homes we would like to know WHERE they are/were and any information about who lived in them. Contact us, please.

Among the oldest cottages that still stand today are the pair that appear beyond the Village green in the above photograph, Hollyhock Cottage and Old Peculiar. These have been lovingly cared for and re-thatched over the years. Another thatched cottage that is technically in Bracon Ash but most people consider part of Mulbarton is Forge Cottage which features in information about the Blacksmith. 

Hethel has its own collection of old cottages, including Brewerton's on the road to the church, and the pair of cottages behind the church known as King John's Thorn. 

Farms in both parishes have interesting buildings, several of great historic interest, and even more prestigious are the 'great houses' of the parishes shown below:-

BRACON HALL - the manor house and home of Townsends, Berneys and other famous families.  Did Queen Elizabeth I stay in the predecessor to Bracon Hall (above) or in Mergate Hall (below)?

MERGATE HALL, home of the Appleyards and Kemps and a separate manor. Has anyone researched the house and its owners? If so, we'd love to hear from you!

BRACON LODGE, home of the Corboulds, Guerneys and others.

WOODLANDS, built in the 'back garden' of Bracon Lodge - more information needed on its date and owners.

HETHEL HALL, demolished around 1952 but with a history of illustrious owners and even housing a prep school for a time! The original hall was probably built for the Branthwaytes, lived in by the Beevors and demolished around 1830. the 'new' hall was owned by Guerneys and Boileaus before it fell into decline in the 1930s.

Home at HETHEL 'CAMP' may have been temporary housing but were much appreciated by those rehoused there and turned old USAAF accommodation into a thriving community.

You will find other houses under Farms and we will add more as we have the photos and information.