A Story Spanning Centuries
The history of Sandon Manor stretches back almost a thousand years. Recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, the estate was once an important agricultural manor belonging to St Paul’s Cathedral in London, producing grain from the fertile Hertfordshire countryside.
From the ancient Post Windmill site dating back to 1222 and the magnificent 13th-century Medieval Barn to the 17th-century Manor House, Sandon Manor is home to an extraordinary collection of historic buildings. Each tells a story of rural life, craftsmanship and generations of people who have lived and worked on the estate.
The Medieval Barn - Over 750 Years of History
At the heart of Sandon Manor stands the magnificent Medieval Barn, formerly known as the Black Barn. Dating from the mid-13th century, it is believed to be among England’s oldest surviving timber-framed barns.
Built from oak and originally used for storing and processing grain, this remarkable building remained part of the working farm until 2006. Between 2012 and 2013, Teddy Faure Walker undertook an extensive restoration, carefully preserving its ancient timber frame and architectural character, using oak grown on the estate wherever possible.
Today, the beautifully restored Medieval Barn forms the centrepiece of Sandon Manor’s exclusive wedding and events venue. Its magnificent historic structure provides a spectacular backdrop for celebrations, complemented by a contemporary cocktail bar, dining space and dedicated club room for dancing.
For a fascinating insight into the building’s past, explore the detailed history researched and written by Teddy Faure Walker.
A Family Estate Since 1540
Sandon Manor has been in the same family since 1540, with the Fordham family’s connection to the estate spanning nearly five centuries.
This remarkable heritage continues today through brother and sister Mark Faure Walker and Kate Redfern (nee Katherine Faure Walker), descendants of the Fordham family. Their grandmother, Betty Fordham, married Billy Faure Walker, bringing together the family names that remain central to Sandon Manor’s story.
The estate has passed through generations of the same family, preserving its agricultural heritage, historic buildings and deep connection to the Hertfordshire countryside.
Building on their father Teddy’s restoration work, Mark and Kate have developed Sandon Manor into an exclusive destination for weddings, celebrations, luxury countryside stays and business retreats, while remaining true to its family roots.
Preserving the Past, Shaping the Future
Today, Sandon Manor brings together centuries of history with contemporary design and a passion for nature.
The historic Manor House, beautifully converted Dovecote and magnificent Medieval Barn sit alongside the contemporary Grain Barn accommodation. As Sandon Manor’s in-house designer, Kate has thoughtfully reimagined these spaces, celebrating their original character while introducing elegant interiors, modern comfort and a relaxed sense of luxury.
Beyond the buildings, Mark leads the estate’s ambitious rewilding and nature recovery programme, helping restore habitats, increase biodiversity and protect the landscape for future generations. This runs alongside the estate’s arable land which produces cereals for food production.
Together, they are continuing a family story that began nearly 500 years ago — preserving Sandon Manor’s extraordinary heritage while creating a beautiful place for people to stay, celebrate, connect and make memories.