Introduction
Coombe Warren, a once-grand estate in Surrey, was a remarkable example of 19th-century architecture and opulence. Built in 1865 and later rebuilt in 1870 after a devastating fire, this mansion was an embodiment of wealth and prestige. However, it was demolished in 1926, leaving behind only remnants of its former grandeur. This article explores the history, architecture, and significance of Coombe Warren and its place in Surrey’s lost houses.
The original Coombe Warren built in 1865
The Origins of Coombe Warren
Coombe Warren was constructed in 1865 by the esteemed architect George Devey for Bertram Wodehouse Currie, a prominent banker. The estate was part of a larger property owned by the Duke of Cambridge, who sold parcels of land to the affluent and noble class. This led to the creation of several grand houses in the Coombe Hill area, which remains one of London’s most prestigious residential zones today.
The architect George Devey (1820-1886)
The Architectural Vision of George Devey
George Devey (1820-1886) was a renowned English architect known for his work on country houses and estate buildings. His design for the original Coombe Warren was a fine example of Victorian country house architecture, featuring a mix of stone, brick, plaster, and half-timbering. His style combined traditional elements with innovative planning, creating a residence that was both aesthetically pleasing and functionally efficient.
Coombe Warren. Rebuilt after a disastrous fire in 1870
The Fire of 1870 and Reconstruction
In 1870, a fire broke out in Coombe Warren, starting in a room near the kitchen. The Kingston Fire Brigade struggled to contain the blaze due to a lack of an adequate water supply. Reports from the time highlight the challenges faced in salvaging valuable paintings, antique china, and other irreplaceable items. With financial support from the Sun Fire Office, Bertram Currie commissioned George Devey to rebuild the mansion.
The New Design of Coombe Warren
The reconstructed Coombe Warren, completed in 1870, was significantly larger and featured a more elaborate architectural style. The design included numerous shaped brick gables, Jacobean-inspired interiors, and extensive service wings arranged in a distinctive zigzag pattern. Mark Girouard, a historian of English architecture, described the house as one of Devey’s most elaborate and well-known creations.
The Estate and Its Features
Coombe Warren was more than just a house; it was a sprawling estate with carefully designed gardens and additional structures.
The Gardens and Grounds
The estate featured large formal gardens, complete with an orangery and a temple dedicated to William Ewart Gladstone, the British Prime Minister. The picturesque setting provided an ideal retreat for high-profile guests, including political and financial elites.
The Role of Coombe Warren in British Politics
As a close friend and advisor to Gladstone, Bertram Currie often hosted the Prime Minister at Coombe Warren. On at least one occasion, a cabinet meeting was held at the estate when Gladstone was temporarily indisposed. This highlights the house’s significance beyond being a luxurious residence—it was also a venue for critical political discussions.
Bertram Woodhouse Currie (1827-1896)
Bertram Wodehouse Currie: The Man Behind Coombe Warren
Bertram Wodehouse Currie (1827-1896) was a distinguished banker and a key figure in British finance. His career at Glyn, Mills, Currie and Company positioned him as an influential financial strategist.
Currie’s Contribution to British Banking
One of Currie’s most notable achievements was his role in addressing the Barings Bank crisis of 1890. Working alongside financial leaders, he helped secure a substantial guarantee fund to stabilize the banking system, thereby preventing a major economic collapse. His leadership and financial acumen earned him widespread respect in banking circles.
Currie’s Final Years
In 1895, Currie was diagnosed with cancer of the tongue, which later spread to his neck. He passed away in 1896 at his residence on Richmond Terrace in Whitehall. Following his death, the estate eventually changed hands, leading to its redevelopment.
The Demolition and Legacy of Coombe Warren
By 1926, Coombe Warren had lost its original purpose as a grand country house. The main building was demolished, and the estate was sold off in smaller parcels. Today, only fragments of the original estate remain.
Surviving Structures
Some architectural elements of Coombe Warren still exist within the area:
Coombe Warren Lodge
Once serving as the entrance to the estate, this structure remains intact and is now a listed building.
Garden Walls and Remnants
Parts of the garden walls and foundations are still visible in various private properties around Coombe Hill.
Influence on Modern Coombe Hill
The Coombe Hill estate, which originally surrounded Coombe Warren, has evolved into an exclusive residential area. Streets such as Coombe Hill Road, Greenwood Park, and Devey Close reflect the historical significance of the land. Many of the homes in this area incorporate structural remnants from the original estate, preserving a link to the past.
Coombe House and Nearby Estates
Coombe Warren was not the only grand residence in the area. Nearby estates also played a role in shaping the region’s history.
Coombe House
Previously known as Coombe Cottage, Coombe House was built around 1863 and expanded between 1870 and 1874. It was home to Edward C. Baring, later Lord Revelstoke, a key figure in the banking world. The house featured a striking architectural design with a prominent tower and varied gables. Notable guests included Queen Victoria and Empress Eugenie.
Warren House
Another significant estate, Warren House, was built in the 1860s for banker Hugh Hammersley. In 1884, George Grenfell Glyn, the second Baron Wolverton, acquired the property and commissioned George Devey to make extensive modifications. Wolverton, a key political figure, frequently hosted Prime Minister Gladstone at Warren House.
Conclusion
Coombe Warren, though long gone, remains an important part of Surrey’s architectural and cultural history. From its origins as a grand residence for Bertram Currie to its role in political and financial circles, the estate was more than just a home—it was a testament to the wealth and influence of its time. While only fragments of the estate remain today, its legacy lives on through the surrounding neighborhoods and the historical significance attached to its name.
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