Oxford Photo Gallery - Greys Court

Greys Court has been a residence for over 900 years, with the Brunner family being the last occupants. With such a long history, we see a mix of medieval, Tudor, Georgian, Victorian, and modern influences. The Doomsday Book first recorded the de Grey family here in the 11th century. Sir Francis Knollys built the main part of the current house, incorporating parts of the original 1450s building from the Lovell family. The Stapletons converted it into Georgian style, and made Victorian changes as well. The Brunners bought the site in 1937 from the Stapletons, who had owned it for over 200 years. Lady Brunner continued to live here until she passed away in 2003. It is now managed by the National Trust, and is free to visit for members. 13 women have owned or co-owned Greys Court over the centuries, which is unusual since women would not typically own property back in the day. Across from the home is the Great Tower, which was built in the 14th century and modified by the Stapletons. It was originally one of several such towers as part of the site's defenses. Greys Court was noticeably busier than nearby Nuffield Place. You can explore on your own, with guides in several rooms to answer questions. The house has a mostly 1-way tour path to manage the crowds, with the exit in kitchen on the side of the ground floor.