History lesson

Buying and renovating a large country house that started life as a coaching inn has been a fascinating journey for Jo and Nigel Tutton

- ALISON GIBB

ENTRANCE HALL

The round glass table, which Jo bought in Mexico, makes a stunning centrepiece here.

Framed botanical prints, £100 each, Acanthus Interiors. Visual Comfort Darlana brass pendant lantern, £495, Lightsource

DRAWING ROOM

In this room, originally the ballroom, Jo has eschewed curtains to enjoy the views of the garden and woodland.

Vintage marble-topped chest, £495, Mrs G-D Interiors. Striped sofa in Olive Sacking, £90m, Guy Goodfellow Collection. White sofa, from a selection, Sofas & Stuff

KITCHEN

There were major damp problems in this part of the building and ten tons of clay needed digging out.

The cabinetry is by Harrison & Pope Handmade Kitchens; a similar kitchen without appliances would be £15,000. Kitchen counter, £4,000, Tudor Granite. Stone flooring, £80sq m, Mandarin Stone

HOME TRUTHS

THE PROPERTY A former coaching inn converted in 1861

LOCATION Herefordshire

ROOMS Entrance hall, drawing room, morning room, dining room, kitchen, study, laundry room, pantry, cloakroom, six bedrooms, eight bathrooms

PURCHASED 2018