THE
P RTAL
June 2012
Priest’s Hole at Coughton Court
Page 11
became, in 1850, the first Catholic to sit in the House
of Commons since the Reformation .
One of the great joys of a visit to Coughton Court
is the fact that although it is a National Trust House,
the family (or some members of it) still live here. This
means that not only are family photographs mixed
with the old masters and paintings, but there is a
“homely” feel to the house.
other items
The house contains many other items of interest.
The Dole gate from Denny Abbey in Cambridgeshire,
a beautiful cope embroidered by Katharine of Aragon
and herladies, the chemise of Mary, Queen of Scots
and a stunning copy of the Sarum Rite dated 1450.
One of the staircases at Coughton Court was
removed from Harvington Hall and brought here; you
may walk up or down stairs on it. The Revd Charles
Acton was Brother-in-Law to the Throckmortons and
was made a Cardinal at the tender age of 32! He died
in 1847.
that their servants or guests were. Thus Owen would
work in secret at night, and very quietly! The whole
operation is way outside our experience, and pray God
it remains so!
Ely Tableau
Hanging on the wall opposite this hide now is the
beautiful Ely Tableau. It shows Ely Abbey prior to the
falling of the central tower and the building of the
famous Octagon, together with well known Catholic
families who Henry VIII had imprisoned. Ely was used
by Henry VIII as the prison for these hapless people.
The Tableau also depicts forty Knights who arrived
with William the Conqueror. It was carried around by
priests during the Tudor period and now hangs in the
room at Coughton once used as a chapel.
desperate struggle
During the Civil War, the Throckmortons and
Coughton Court were for the King, of course. Charles
I bestowed a baronetcy on the family when raising
money for his ever desperate struggle. Parliamentarians
occupied Coughton, and the Court was bombarded
by cannon. The house was set ablaze and eventually
forfeited to Parliament. With the Civil War over and
the crown restored, the family regained possession
of their precious home. Nevertheless, heavy fines
were imposed for their non-attendance at Church of
England services.
Times change, and Sir Robert Throckmorton
The knowledgeable Anne Fox and the expert team
of guides will show you round and explain what needs
explaining, and the food in the restaurant is wonderful.
Thegardens at Coughton Court are worth a visit in
themselves, All in all, a great day out.
To find out more go to: www.coughtoncourt.co.uk
Throckmorton Estates
Coughton Court, Alcester B49 5JA
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