On Monday 13th October we were delighted to welcome Helen Powell to our Speaker meeting.
Helen is a lawyer and a prominent founder member of We Love Stoke Lodge, a local community group composed of former and current residents for whom the last green space in Stoke Bishop is very important. Their work aims to protect the area for future generations.
Helen took us on a fascinating journey through the rich history of Stoke Lodge and its surrounding green space. Stoke Lodge is a Grade II listed house located in the heart of Stoke Bishop and is surrounded by 23 acres of beautiful parkland. The grounds are known for its collection of magnificent, protected, and historic trees, with many champion and notable trees on the national register, as well as a wide variety of wildlife, including bats, foxes, badgers, and deer. The arboretum is a popular local green space for walking and recreation, featuring many different species, including a Lucombe Oak that won Bristol Tree of the Year in 2018.
The house was built in 1836 by senior English Army officer and plant collector, botanist and agrostologist (specialist on grasses) William Munro. Over the years, it was owned by several of Bristol’s prominent business figures, from mayors to merchant, including Sir Edward Burnet James (Mayor of Bristol and Director of Imperial Tobacco) and Claude Fry of Fry’s Chocolate.
The house remained in private ownership until 1947. Now owned by Bristol City Council, Stoke Lodge operates as a successful adult learning centre.
A large Cedar of Lebanon on the grounds was probably around 175 years old when it started showing signs of decline and eventually succumbed to age and disease. The monolith left was carved by Andy O’Neill, chainsaw wood artist and sculptor, and it is a fascinating depiction of owls, butterflies, seagulls, foxes and other wildlife found at Stole Lodge.
A large part of the parkland is laid out seasonally as sports pitches. A much-loved children’s playpark has its own area to the west of the house and at the rear of the house an oasis of peace, the Sensory Garden, was created for community use. The surrounding parkland remains as beautiful and well-loved as ever, continuing to serve as a place of reflection, community gatherings, and healing for many.
Thank you, Helen, for a fabulous presentation and very informative talk!