The China House in Beckett Park

Whereas the information within the article contains useful debate as to the authenticity of the architect and builder of the Lodge, there are several facts that are inaccurate. For instance, we now know by Barrington family documentation that William Atkinson's plans for the new Beckett House were completely rejected and those of Thomas Liddell were used. We also know that George Pratt did not purchase the earlier Beckett House or Estate.

 

To see a complete copy of the chapter from M.R. Gloag's book on Beckett, please see Listing No N968 in this catalogue.

 

Beckett House and the Park in which it is located, was sold to the War Department in 1937. To see some documentation from that sale please go to Listing No N1045. By 1950 it was noticed that the roof of the China House or Fishing Lodge, was in a poor state of repair, described by the Commandant at the time, General Sir John Eldridge, as 'ruinous.' Fortunately, the War Dept at the time decided to restore the 17th century building, which at the time was not historically listed and could easily have resulted in it being demolished. To see the documents that saved the China House please go HERE

 

 

 

 

Also known by other names:

The Summer House

The Banqueting House

The China House

The Fishing Lodge