Wakehams Eversholt

Wakehams February 2016

Wakehams was listed by English Heritage in March 1987 as Grade II, of special interest. It is thought to date from the 17th century and is of timber-framed construction with colour-washed brick infill. The roof is composed of clay tiles and the property comprises one storey with attics. From the first half of the 19th century until 1917 it was a beerhouse known as the Six Bells.

The Rating and Valuation Act 1925 specified that every building and piece of land in the country was to be assessed to determine its rateable value. The valuer visiting the property, then called The Nest [DV1/C133/7], found it owned and occupied by James Woodman.

The property comprised three living rooms, a kitchen and three bedrooms. A stable, wood barn, shed and earth closet all stood outside. The valuer commented: “Was Six Bells” and “Lovely, ideal weekend cottage”.