Byethorne House, originally called `The Willows' was built in 1786. In 1867 Henry Smith Edwards renamed it after a ship he owned. He brought up land next to the house and over the next sixteen years built a large garden. It included water gardens, tennis court and green houses. During the 20th century it condition of the site got worse, but when it was bought in 1971 a new period of repair began. New features include south terraces, lawns, a Vinery, a lavender walk, a new wood and a pond.