Discovering the history of a home is a fascinating business. The Research Workshop finds out when the dwelling was built, who has lived there down the centuries and how the fabric of the building may have changed over time. The finished story will be illustrated with old maps, drawings and photographs.

Circus Road, St John's Wood
Sleepy Victorian suburban villa built in 1840 as part of the phased development of the Eyre Estate. In the late 19th century the house was used as a flagellation brothel and frequented by the poet Algernon Swinburne.

Chalk House, Kidmore End
Charming Oxfordshire Georgian residence once used as a tavern. Owned in the 1930s by Audrey and Peter Pleydell-Bouverie who entertained Edward, Prince of Wales and Mrs Simpson here.

Upper Cheyne Row, Chelsea
Small Regency town house built by a speculative builder in 1716. The first tenant was Elizabeth, Duchess of Hamilton whose husband, the 4th Duke, was killed in a dual over her inheritance. During her short sojourn in Chelsea the young widow became intimately acquainted with Jonathan Swift who occuopied lodgings nearby.

The Old Rectory, Wickhambreaux
"Handsome brick parsonage" built in the early 18th century. History commissioned for personal interest following unexplained happenings and exorcism at new home.

Upper Brook Street, Mayfair
Imposing three storey mid terrace Georgian town house built for Sir Francis Head in 1732. Home for two centuries to the nobility. Rebuilt in 1937 to the designs of Wimperis, Simpson & Gutherie.

Curbridge Farm, Witney
Ancient farm dating back to 12th century when it was mentioned in Court Rolls as "6 yard lands". The coursed limestone dwelling that stands today was built in the 1540's and extended substantially in the late 17th century.