Powys House

Powys House was constructed between 1800 and 1830 during a period of rapid expansion in Sidmouth, East Devon. It was originally designed as a cottage orné, a fashionable architectural style of the time, meant to serve as a comfortable residence for a wealthy single woman. The original "villa" featured expansive grounds and a clear outlook toward the sea.

A Timeline of Transformation

The property has seen significant changes over the last two centuries:

• 1850s: The owner's family added an upper floor while carefully preserving the gardens and sea views.

• 1890s: After sixty years of single-family ownership, the house was sold to a London doctor for his retirement.

• 1914 – 1980: Following several changes in ownership, the site was redeveloped into a modern retirement complex.

• Today: While modernised, the site retains much of its original Regency-era character and parkland.

The Living Landscape

The grounds today are managed as a classic parkland garden. Key features include:

• The Croquet Lawn: A historic feature situated directly in front of the villa.

• Ornamental Diversity: Trees and shrubs are selected for year-round interest, providing spring blossoms, summer foliage, and vibrant autumn colors.

• Resident Wellness: The area serves as a tranquil space for residents to wander or view from their windows throughout the seasons.

Unlocking Secrets: The 2025 Nature Survey

Because no photographic evidence exists from the 18th century, researchers looked for biological "clues" to understand what the site was like before the house was built. Throughout 2025, a nature survey was conducted:

• Floral & Fungi Records: Specialists identified wildflowers in secluded areas and studied autumn fungi to uncover the natural history of the soil.

• Dendrochronology (Tree Ageing): A team measured the girth of established tree trunks to estimate their ages.

By combining this biological data with historical records dating back to the Domesday Book, we can now explain the evolution of these gardens from the ancient past to the present day.