Aerial view of the Old Rectory, Wimbledon
| Partial / Incomplete Date | c.1978 |
|---|---|
| Area | Wimbledon Village |
| Picture Reference | Wim_31_9-6 |
| Original Format | Photo |
| Notes / History | The oldest building in Wimbledon, this fine turreted property was constructed c.1500 for the wealthy pre-Reformation rectors of St. Mary’s Church. The Tudor building was much larger and boasted numerous rooms and outbuildings, including an orchard and a fig-walk. It is not surprising that in 1546, the rectory was used to house the ailing Henry VIII, in preference to the rather limited Manor House. Between 1553 and 1558, the “Parsonage House” was home to Sir William Cecil, Secretary of State to Edward VI and later the chief adviser and confidant to Elizabeth I. |
