Limnerslease

About

Limnerslease was the autumn and winter home of GF and Mary Watts.  Designed by the architect Sir Ernest George, it was built specifically for the Watts and was completed in 1891.

The name Limnerslease is unusual, but the word 'Limner' is old English for artist, and 'Lease' is to glean hope for the future.  The new house included a large studio for George (GF), as well as a studio for Mary.  Much of the interior was designed and created by Mary.

When George died in 1904 Mary made Limnerslease her main residence and following her death in 1938 the house was separated into 3 separate dwellings.

Watts Gallery Trust has now secured the east wing of the house.  Importantly this is where George's studio is located, so the Trust is working on a restoration to turn the house back into the residence that George and Mary would recognise.  The Trust continues to look into securing the remainder of the house.