A Note on Voewood by Simon Finch

I feel very lucky to be the custodian of this extraordinary house. It was originally built as Voewood, a name that has been reinstated though through much of its life it was Home Place and is known as such in the architectural histories.

Voewood was built by E S Prior for the Rev Percy Lloyd between 1903–5. The Lloyds never lived in the house and after a brief rental period to the Meyrick Jones family, there followed a boys’ school and various rest homes spanning over seventy years. The Meyrick Joneses kindly gave me one of their photograph albums which was of great help in the task of restoration.

My passions in life are books, buildings and art. The work I have done at Voewood has satisfied every part of me. I have been generously supported by numerous people.

The intrinsic beauty of the building and the efforts of all those involved have made it a restful and stimulating place to be. I never imagined it as my exclusive castle so it is a pleasure to share it with those who appreciate its beauty.

We are constantly improving things when we can and are planning to open a Voewood Shop and Gallery. The shop will reflect the spirit of the house.

My central business has been dealing in antiquarian books which I have approached in a very visual way. We also own the bookshop at 5 Fish Hill, Holt which is renowned for its antiquarian and secondhand books. It is the kind of old bookshop which is rare nowadays.

When you visit Voewood I trust you will have an enjoyable stay and, like myself, leave with a longing to return.

Simon Finch