Tadworth children's charity to open its doors

Tadworth Court, home of The Children’s Trust, will be welcoming visitors as part of the annual Heritage Open Days event, which celebrates England’s architecture and culture by offering free access to buildings which are usually closed to the public or charge for entry.

The day will provide a chance to discover hidden architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities which will bring to life the local history and culture.

The mansion was built in in 1700 and was most prominently owned by Lord and Lady Russell, who lived there between 1885 and 1906. 

In 1924, it passed into the hands of Great Ormond Street Hospital which opened it in May 1927 with 42-bed accommodation.

During the war years, Tadworth Court was very busy during the evacuation and underwent an extensive re-building programme in the 1960s.

In 1983, the mansion was saved from closure by the Tadworth Court Trust, a charity set up to manage the hospital and, in 1994, Tadworth Court was re-named The Children's Trust.

On the day, visitors will be given a guided tour of Tadworth Court by ‘Lord and Lady Russell’ and have the chance to learn more about the building, its history, how it has changed and when it became The Children's Trust.

Rachel Turner, voluntary services manager at the trust, said: "We have around a hundred people that visit us on our Heritage Open Day every year.

"It is a great opportunity for people - both local and from further afield - to find out more about what has been described as one of the forgotten country houses of its time."

The trust provides care, education, therapy and rehabilitation to children with multiple disabilities, complex health needs and acquired brain injuries.

It will be open to the public on Sunday, September 9, with tours running at 10.45am, 12pm, 1.45pm and 3pm.  The trust will be open from 10.30am to 4pm.

For more information call Ms Turner on 01737 365000 or visit www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk/history