Lost Country Houses of Surrey

Surrey had been home to large houses of the landed gentry and even royalty through the centuries but once the new railways opened up the county in the nineteenth century, Surrey’s proximity to London meant that many large houses were built for the wealthy who worked in the capital. However, increased taxation during the 20th century, along with agricultural decline, led to significant numbers becoming redundant. Many fine Surrey country houses were demolished or reduced in size, leaving just memories today.Lost Country Houses of Surrey will feature all of the significant country houses that have been lost, as well many of the smaller and more obscure houses. Each house will be illustrated with rare postcards and photographs, including those featuring the families that lived in them and the famous people who visited them. This fascinating picture of an important but often forgotten part of the history of Surrey over the centuries will be of interest to all those who live in the county or know it well.