History of Coombe Lodge
Coombe Lodge, Blagdon was commissioned by the Wills family. Historically one of Bristol's leading families, they ran the W.D. and H.O. Wills tobacco company in the city, the first UK company to mass-produce cigarettes and one of the founding companies of imperial tobacco.
Built Over 1928 & 1932
Built over four years, from 1928 - 1932, Coombe Lodge became their family home for over 30 years. Today's country manor house in Blagdon is built on the foundations of an older property dating back to 1759. Constructed from distinctive Bath stone, with a Cotswold stone roof, Coombe Lodge was designed as an E-shaped Jacobean house by the distinguished architect Sir George Oatley.
The Creator
In his lifetime Oatley was the creator of many notable buildings in and around Bristol, including Bristol Royal Infirmary and the J.S. Fry & Sons chocolate factory. A large proportion of his work was commissioned by the Wills family; probably the most famous of all being the imposing Wills Memorial Building at Bristol University.
The house later became a further education staff college, before being given a new lease of life when it was taken over by the team at PM Hospitality and sensitively transformed into the wonderful, contemporary venue you see today. Stylish, but relaxed, Coombe Lodge still retains the elegance of its past, including the distinctive limed oak panelling found on the ground floor and staircase.
Outstanding Reputation
Over the last ten years, Coombe Lodge has continued to earn an outstanding reputation for hosting all kinds of special events, particularly exclusive wedding ceremonies and receptions - something that we feel very passionate about.
