For some 800 years, Norwood Park was owned by the Archbishop of York as part of the Manor of Southwell which was given to him in 956 by the Saxon King. In early medieval times a Deer Park was created in a tract of woodland pasture, notable for its fine specimen oak trees and fish ponds, by enclosing it within an earthwork that still exists.

Edward Cludd, the estate manager at the time of the Civil War used his friendship with Oliver Cromwell to acquire the Park. He built the first ‘pretty little brick house’. Too small for John Sutton who later took over the lease of the Park, it was replaced by the present handsome Georgian mansion in the 1760’s. At the same time, the Park was landscaped with the addition of the Temple, two more fishponds and the Lime Avenue.

Since 1881, when Lewis Starkey moved his family from Yorkshire, Norwood has been home to five generations. John Ralph Starkey planted the first Bramley orchard in 1910 when MP for Newark. His son William and grandson John have kept the fruit growing tradition alive which also includes a substantial strawberry enterprise.

The late Georgian Stables and Coach House block, which were converted to fruit store in the late 1950’s, have been refurbished as a suite of Palladian style reception rooms with splendid views over the private cricket ground. The Stables Gallery seats 120 for Conferences or 150 for dinners and is ideal for Wedding Receptions, Dances or Special events. Numbers can increase to 250 by incorporating the Courtyard, and Marquee. Since 1998, Civil marriages may be held in the House and product launches and Corporate Activity days are a speciality.

The idea to incorporate and develop a superb golf course within the grounds was first explored in the late 1980’s, but took until 1999 to open the first nine holes. The following nine being open in June 2002. These are set within 175 acres of the original Deer parkland, and the site of the original Bramley orchard. The American Course designer, Clyde B Johnston of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, has succeeded in creating a magnificent layout which blends sympathetically with the historic setting of the Park and highlights its natural features and views.

The Practice area, opened in the summer of 1998, is a special feature of Norwood Park Golf Course. It incorporates a 350 yard plus driving area, practice putting, chipping and pitching greens and a large practice bunker. Playing off grass all year round, weather permitting, these facilities have provided a popular attraction for experienced golfers and beginners to practise both their long and short games. With planning permission approved for a par 3 course, Norwood Park Golf Course is fast becoming one of the premier courses in the Midlands.

With the next generation taking the reigns in 2006, Norwood has undergone further changes whilst maintaining its unique appeal as a family home, available for exclusive use by our guests. We are proud of our heritage. Norwood was, is and always will be, quintessentially English.