England is steeped in history, with numerous ancient dwellings echoing the lives of the people who once lived within their walls. Despite the abundance of historic structures, pinpointing the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited home is a complex task. However, Saltford House in Somerset is a strong contender for this esteemed title, with its origins dating back an astonishing 875 years to the mid-12th century.
Awarded the distinction of “oldest continuously inhabited house in Britain” by Country Life magazine in 2003, Saltford House boasts a venerable history. Examining the building reveals remnants of medieval decorative artwork, offering glimpses into its past dating back to the 1300s.
While it is challenging to precisely determine England’s oldest house due to the alterations and historical layers many ancient structures have undergone, Saltford House stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of England’s architectural heritage. The manor, once under the purview of the Earls of Gloucester during the medieval era, is shrouded in history, with its original architect still unknown.
The property’s distinguished quarters, including its two-storey ‘chamber block’ and a separate great hall, provide unique insights into the architecture of a bygone era.
Significant renovations in the 1400s, such as the installation of a large chimney stack and modifications to the ground floor, attest to the evolution of Saltford House over the centuries.
In the modern era, the village of Saltford continues to thrive, with property prices reflecting the desirability of the area. Recent data indicates an increase in the average selling prices of homes in Saltford, with the village described by the local council as “steeped in history” and home to a “vibrant community.”