House & Family History: In the late 19th century Kingswood was owned by John Lawson Johnston, the inventor of Bovril. Johnston extended the House and remodeled the façade, including adding battlements, after which Kingswood became known locally as Bovril Castle. During the Great War Kingswood was used as a convalescence home for wounded Canadian soldiers. In 1956 the London County Council acquired the Estate by compulsory purchase and developed the site into a large residential development, complete with houses, flats, and shops. The House itself was converted into a library and community center. In 1965 Kingswood was transferred to the ownership of the London Borough of Southwark, who use the House and today for civil marriages, conferences, and meetings.

House Listed: Grade II

Park Listed: Not Listed

Past Seat / Home of: William Vizard, 1811-31. John Lawson Johnston, 1891-?. Sir William Vestey, Lord Vestey of Kingswood, 1919-40.

Current Ownership Type: Government

Primary Current Ownership Use: Mixed Use

Ownership Details: Owned by London Borough of Southwark and used for conferences, meetings, and civil marriages.

House Open to Public: By Appointment

Historic Houses Member: No