Churt Parish Council

Quinnettes, a historic property dating back to 1572, is a medieval house and barn situated in beautiful gardens in the heart of Churt village, just off the A287. Over the centuries, the estate has served various purposes, including as a farm and private residence, and has been known by different names, including Quinnettes, Hale House Farm, Parkhurst Farm and Cambrian House. 

In 1925, Commander White purchased the estate, transforming it into a house, garden, and three cottages, and restored the name Quinnettes. Around 1966, Miss Ruth Douglas, a former missionary in Uganda and London, acquired the estate. She envisioned converting the land into affordable homes, initially for single women who had spent their working lives in service. She launched a project to build bungalows on the estate under the name Eddystone Housing Association (EHA), honouring her grandfather, Sir James Douglas, who designed the Eddystone Lighthouse.

Over the years, EHA has expanded the estate, adding more bungalows to provide affordable housing for retirees with a link to Churt. Today, it is managed by a volunteer Board of Trustees, responsible for the upkeep, maintenance, and financial management of the Quinnettes’ estate, which includes the homes, gardens, and the historic barn.

The barn, a centrepiece of the Quinnettes’ estate, is a cherished venue in Churt. It is available for hire for a variety of events, including yoga and fitness classes, art and craft workshops, small weddings, private dinners, wakes, and other gatherings. Hire of the barn includes access to the beautiful gardens.

With a flexible layout that accommodates up to 65 guests, the barn is accessible for wheelchairs and provides off-road parking for up to 12 cars. It features a fully equipped kitchen and cloakrooms. Regular and ad-hoc bookings are welcomed, with options from single hour hire to mornings, afternoons, evenings or full-day events.