House & Family History: In 1540 the Sopwell Nunnery Estate was granted by Henry VIII to Sir Richard Lee (1513-75), a soldier and royal engineer, upon the dissolution of St. Albans Abbey. Lee built his Tudor mansion in 1560 incorporating the nunnery buildings. Part of the House was dismantled and used in Gorhambury House circa 1777.

House Listed: Grade II

Park Listed: Not Listed

Past Seat / Home of: Sir Richard Lee, 16th century.

Current Ownership Type: Corporation

Primary Current Ownership Use: Hotel

Ownership Details: The ruins are owned by St. Albans Museums.

House Open to Public: By Appointment

Phone: 01727-864-477

Fax: 01727-220-820

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://sopwellhouse.co.uk

Historic Houses Member: No