Earlier Houses: There was an earlier house, probably built for Thomas Carthew, on the site of the current house.

House & Family History: The Benacre Hall Estate was purchased in the 18th century by The Right Rev. Thomas Gooch, who had a brilliant career in academia and the church. He was appointed master of Gonville and Caius College in 1716 and vice chancellor of the University of Cambridge in 1717. He became bishop of Bristol in 1737, bishop of Norwich in 1738, and bishop of Ely in 1747. In 1751 Thomas became the 2nd Baronet, after the death of his brother, Sir William Gooch, 1st Bt. Gooches were here until 1999, when Sir John Gooch, 12th Bt., died. The Estate was sold by Sir John's heirs, after which the House was converted into flats.

House Listed: Grade II

Park Listed: Not Listed

Past Seat / Home of: SEATED AT EARLIER HOUSE: Thomas Carthew. SEATED AT CURRENT HOUSE: The Right Rev. Sir Thomas Gooch, 2nd Bt., until 1754; Sir Alfred Sherlock Gooch, 9th Bt., until 1899; Sir (Richard) John Sherlock Gooch, 20th century; Gooch family here until 1999.

Current Ownership Type: Flat Owners Company / Condo Association

Primary Current Ownership Use: Flats / Multi Family

House Open to Public: No

Historic Houses Member: No