Built / Designed For: Robert Teesdale

House & Family History: Originally called Westfield, Branksome was purchased by John Kitching, a railway engineer, in 1852 (the name of Branksome was taken from a poem by Sir Walter Scott). Kitching's seven bachelor sons lived at the house until 1955, when they sold the 230 acres of the estate to the Darlington Council. The house was demolished and the estate was converted into housing for the disabled and the elderly.

Collections: In the 19th century Branksome had a fine collection of furniture, paintings, porcelain, and statuary.

House Listed: Demolished

Park Listed: Destroyed

Past Seat / Home of: Robert Teesdale. John Kitching, 19th century; Kitching family here until 1955.

Current Ownership Type: Demolished

Primary Current Ownership Use: Demolished

House Open to Public: No

Historic Houses Member: No