The Hayes is Grade II listed and has a strong association with the pottery industry, particularly with the Meakin family. Set in it’s own extensive grounds with native English woodland and stream, construction of The Hayes begun in 1813. Over the following 50 years, additional wings were added.  We are currently putting together an archive of historical documents associated with the house.

The house was used as a family home until the Second World War, when it was requisitioned by the military for use as married quarters for RAF officers.

After the war, The Hayes failed to return it’s former glory. By the 1960’s most of the house was closed and unused. It was advertised for sale in the Financial Times in 1972 . Seen on a spring day, with the sun shining and the daffodils in flower, the house seemed a perfect place to give those who had been in hospital since the Second World War a new lease of life. The grounds were dug over, the fields stocked with animals and the fabric of the house improved. The house became a community of 20 people, who had suffered physical or psychological injury during the war. They were supported in their independent living by volunteers.

By the 1990’s the house was providing accommodation to people facing a change in their lives, and also became the centre of a programme of community activities. The events last for a few hours to a several days.

At the start of the 21st Century, The Hayes is once again evolving in response to new circumstances. The accommodation is continually being upgraded, the communal rooms restored and more emphasis placed on gracious, environmentally aware living. The Hayes will appeal to those looking for a tranquil lifestyle in peaceful rural surroundings.