From the newly-refurbished and re-opened Boston Manor House – a fine Jacobean manor house built in 1623, situated in its own park with a lake and ancient cedar trees, to the heart of industrial Victorian London (Brentford Canal Toll House and Gauging Lock), Brentford has lots to offer the Open House visitor.
It’s home to the Butts Conservation Area, with beautifully proportioned wide streets of 18th century houses including St. Mary’s Convent. Its name hints at a history dating back even further to the 16th century, when Henry VIII commandeered land north of the High Street for archery practice.
Next, visit the St Lawrence 15th century tower, which started life as part of a hospital and chapel in the 12th century. Virtually derelict since the 1960s, it has now been refurbished but is unused, so this is a unique opportunity to see inside.
Hear about the local history from passionate locals (Brentford Then and Now/Brentford through the Ages) and visit the 1785 Brentford & Isleworth Quaker Meeting House on Quaker’s Lane. From there you can head back to the river Thames and Isleworth, with its own group of Open House venues and unique stories. From Boston Manor House to Quaker’s Lane is a 25-minute walk.
