House & Family History: Famous as the home of Evelyn Waugh, who lived here until his death in 1966 (he's buried in the village churchyard, across the road from the house), Combe Florey House is a two-story five-bay Carolinian-Georgian manor house set in an estate of 35 acres. Waugh, known for his love of drink, most have found the house's seven wine cellars a plus when he purchased Combe Florey in 1956. Evelyn's wife, Laura Herbert (daughter of the second son of the 4th Earl of Carnarvon), continued living in the house until 1971, even though Evelyn had bequeathed the estate to his second child (of seven) and first son, the writer and journalist Auberon Waugh. In 1968 Laura sold her late husband's library (the books, their cases, and the furniture) to the University of Texas as part of the school's memorial to the famous writer. In 1971 Auberon, his wife (Lady Teresa, daughter of the 6th Earl of Onslow), and their two sons and two daughters, moved into Combe Florey House. Auberon died here on January 16, 2001, aged 61. In early 2021 the house, together with 35 acres, was listed for sale for £5.5 million. (We are grateful to Andrew Triggs for contributing to this history of Combe Florey House).

Garden & Outbuildings: The 1591 Grade II*-listed Gatehouse had its upper two stories removed circa 1840.

House Listed: Grade II

Park Listed: Not Listed

Past Seat / Home of: William Fraunceis, 18th century. Evelyn Waugh, 1956-66; Laura Waugh, 1966-71; Auberon Waugh, 1971-2001; Waugh family here until 2008.

Current Ownership Type: Individual / Family Trust

Primary Current Ownership Use: Private Home

House Open to Public: No

Historic Houses Member: No