Sir Francis Drake Cottage

This house is an odd shape and design for an entrance lodge. It was originally called the 'New Stone Entrance Lodge' and was built complete and fitted when the entrance gates and railings were added to the Gayhurst estate. After some years the lodge was part of the Sir Francis Drake pub when the fishing house was removed from the bath house by the river. There are two dates on the house the earlier one being George Wrighte 1751, and the latter one James William Carlile, 1882. When the fishing house was moved the bath house was also renovated. Most of the material came from the estate with sand and gravel being quarried here. Further along up the track towards the church is the magnificent Gayhurst House which was built during the reign of Elizabeth I and was given to Sir Francis Drake in recognition of his circumnavigation of the world. The local pub (this building) as was, is named after him. In January 1581 a patent was granted by Queen Elizabeth 1, conferring on Sir Francis Drake (amongst other property) the reversion to 'the Manor of Gothurste otherwise Gayhurste and Stoke Goldington. And also the advowsons gifts and rights of patronage of the Churches of Gothurste otherwise Gayhurste and Stoke Goldington aforesaid should it become forfeited to the Crown'. This deed was dated 13th January 1581. On the following day 14th January 1581 Sir Francis sold this reversion to William Mulsho. The lodge which was the pub is now a private residence once again.