Westover Manor

During the reign of Edward the Confessor, the ownership of the estate known as WESTOVER or CALBOURNE was attributed to Bolla in parage. Following the Norman Conquest, the estate was then transferred to William Fitz Stur. The orginal manor has historically been associated with Carisbrooke Castle as a constituent part of the manor of Gatcombe.

This connection persisted until the mid-16th century, at which point its two halves were owned, similar to those of Gatcombe, by Sir Geoffrey Poole and Richard Ernley. In 1556, Sir Geoffrey and his spouse Constance transferred their moiety to John Erlisman, while in 1564, Richard Ernley and his spouse Barbara sold their portion to the aforementioned John.

Westover House, which holds a grade II* listing, is a substantial country residence constructed with stucco and spanning two levels beneath a hipped slate roof. The structure has a moulded cornice and parapet, accompanied by a porch situated on the north-eastern front, which is upheld by fluted Doric columns.

Additionally, a verandah is present along the south-eastern facade, providing support and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the garden area. The current structure of the home can be traced back to the early 19th century. During this time, the original hunting lodge, which was first constructed by Thomas Holmes in the 1760s, underwent significant reconstruction under the ownership of Sir L T Worsley Holmes. It is speculated that the renovations were carried out according to the architectural plans of John Nash (1752-1835).

The square, one and a half-storey stable courtyard stands on the west side of the House and is contemporary with the remodelling of the House. Access to the designated area is granted by means of an archway situated on the northern side, while a sundial occupies a central position inside the confines of the courtyard.

• https://www.parksandgardens.org/places/westover

• http://www.british-history.ac.uk/report.aspx?compid=42080