After the break up of Philips Marriage, Athelhampton was sold to Robert Victor Cooke, who had attempted to buy Athelhampton some 8 years earlier.

Robert Victor Cooke, a surgeon by profession, was a great collector. he had long resolved to restore and historic house to house his collection.

Sadly, his wife Elizabeth died prematurely in 1964 resulting in him losing enthusiasum in the project. He decided to present Athelhampton House & Gardens to his son, also Robert on the occasion of his marriage to Jennifer in 1966, on the understanding the they would continue to improve the house, gardens and its collection.

Sir Robert Cooke who was Member of Parliament for Bristol West continued to restore Athelhampton until his death in 1987. His wife Jennifer died in 1995

Their son Patrick Cooke and his wife Andrea now oversee all the operation at Athelhampton. Patrick co-ordinated the restoration of of the East Wing after the fire of 1992 and completed the renovation of the Coach House complex in 1999.

In more recent years the facilities at Athelhampton have continued to improve with further additions to the Coach House and in 2003 the complete refurbishment of River Cottage, our self catering accommodation.

For the full text please see our Guide Book