the eastern end of the building dates from the fifteenth century; the western end is a nineteenth-century addition. the manor house, which is mentioned in the domesday book, is claimed to have been built by cardinal beaufort as a hunting lodge. at one point it was occupied by insurrectionist jack cade. thereafter it was a family home until the mid-1960s, when it became the folk music centre. it has been designated by english heritage as a grade ii* listed building. there is a ballroom, library and lounge bar with an impressive entrance hall. the latter has oak panelling and staircase, with an open fireplace and barrel ceiling. the mews is now used for accommodation.