The History of the Wood Norton
If the walls could talk, the Wood Norton’s beautiful oak panelling would have a tale or two to tell. Our Grade II listed mansion has witnessed exiled French royalty, played it’s part in World War 2 and provided the backdrop for Doctor Who’s adventures. A unique and fascinating history to explore.
A Duc's Mansion
Going back all the way to 1872, the estate was purchased as hunting grounds for the exiled French Duc d’Aumale. The hall as it stands today was completed by Duc d’Orleans, who later inherited the estate. In 1898, the Duc d’Orleans came to live at the Wood Norton with his wife and used it as a mini Palace with liveried footmen and many servants.
In 1907, the Royal Wedding of Princess Louise of Orleans (Duc d’Orleans sister) and Prince Charles of Bourbon took place at the Wood Norton. Royalty from across Europe, including King Alfonso of Spain and Queen Amelia of Portugal were special guests. The family lived here until 1912 when they moved back to France and a British lawyer and judge took over ownership.
The BBC’s Training Centre
The BBC bought the Wood Norton in 1939 as part of a drive to relocate core functions outside urban areas in the event of hostilities. By 1940, it was one of the largest broadcasting centres in Europe with a series of temporary buildings set up on the grounds. It was the home of the BBC's Monitoring Service and a secret base of operations.
After the war, the Wood Norton became the home of the BBC Engineering Training Department, now the BBC Academy. During the Cold War, it was designated as a broadcasting centre in the event of a nuclear attack. Bredon Wing was built in the 1960s and contains a 175-foot-long (53m) nuclear fallout bunker. A convenient BBC location, the Wood Norton also became a filming location, most famously appearing in Doctor Who on two separate occasions.
In 1980, the BBC sold the Wood Norton and it was transformed into a country house hotel and conference centre. Since 2012, our current owners and operations team have refreshed the Wood Norton to bring it back to its full glory.