What is Chequers and what is its primary function?

Chequers, also known as Chequers Court, is the official country house of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. It serves as a private residence and a place for relaxation and entertaining dignitaries away from the capital.

Where is Chequers located?

Chequers is situated near the village of Ellesborough in Buckinghamshire, England. It lies between the towns of Princes Risborough and Wendover, at the foot of the Chiltern Hills, approximately 40 miles (64 km) northwest of Central London.

When did Chequers become the official country residence for British Prime Ministers?

Chequers has served as the country home for the serving prime minister since 1921.

How did Chequers become the property of the nation for the Prime Minister's use?

Viscount Lee of Fareham gifted Chequers to the nation in 1921 through a Deed of Settlement, which was given legal effect by the Chequers Estate Act of 1917. This act ensured the house would be available as a country retreat for future Prime Ministers.

What is the architectural style of Chequers?

The current house was built around 1565 and is primarily in the Elizabethan architectural style, characterized by its red brick construction with stone dressings and a tiled roof.

What is the origin of the name Chequers Court?

The name Chequers Court originates from the Checker family, who owned the estate in the 12th and 13th centuries. Elias del Checker, an usher at the King's Exchequer, gave the family its name, meaning 'of the Exchequer'.

Who built the current Chequers house?

The current house was constructed by William Hawtrey around 1565, possibly by rebuilding an earlier structure on the site.

What historical connection does Chequers have to Lady Mary Grey?

Following its construction, William Hawtrey served as custodian for Lady Mary Grey, younger sister of Lady Jane Grey. Lady Mary, who had married without royal consent, was confined to Chequers by Queen Elizabeth I for two years, from 1565 to 1567. The room where she slept during this period remains in its original condition.

Which prominent historical figure's memorabilia is housed at Chequers?

Chequers is known for its significant connection to Oliver Cromwell, whose family owned the house through marriage in 1715. The property holds one of the largest collections of art and memorabilia related to Oliver Cromwell in the country.

How were the architectural alterations made to Chequers in the 19th century?

In the 19th century, the Greenhill-Russell family, descendants of Cromwell, employed Henry Rhodes to make alterations in the Gothic style. This involved removing Tudor panelling and windows and adding battlements and pinnacles.

Who was responsible for restoring Chequers to its Elizabethan origins?

Bertram Astley undertook the restoration of Chequers to its Elizabethan origins between 1892 and 1901, with advice from architect Reginald Blomfield. The architect John Birch also contributed to this restoration work.

Who leased Chequers before it was gifted to the nation, and what role did they play?

Arthur Lee and his wife Ruth leased Chequers in 1909. Arthur Lee immediately commissioned Reginald Blomfield to restore the interior, and Henry Avray Tipping designed several walled gardens. Ruth Lee and her sister later purchased the property and gave it to Arthur Lee.

What was the function of Chequers during World War I?

During the First World War, Chequers served as a hospital and later as a convalescent home for officers.

What was Viscount Lee of Fareham's rationale for gifting Chequers to the nation?

Viscount Lee believed that future Prime Ministers, who might not come from landed backgrounds, would need a country house to entertain dignitaries and relax. He stated that the 'high and pure air' of the Chiltern hills would benefit the nation by promoting the health of its leaders, thus leading to saner rule.

What inscription is found in a stained glass window at Chequers regarding its purpose?

An inscription in a stained glass window in the long gallery, commissioned by Lord and Lady Lee, states that Chequers was given to England as a thank-offering for its deliverance in the Great War (1914-1918) and intended as a place of rest and recreation for Prime Ministers forever.

When did the Lees officially leave Chequers, and was the handover smooth?

The Lees departed Chequers on January 8, 1921. Although the handover proceeded, it was reportedly soured by a political disagreement between the Lees and Prime Minister David Lloyd George.

Besides Cromwell memorabilia, what other notable items are held at Chequers?

Chequers also houses other national antiques and books, including a diary belonging to Horatio Nelson and the Chequers Ring, which is one of the few surviving pieces of jewelry worn by Queen Elizabeth I.

What happened to the nearby Coombe Hill area in relation to the Chequers Estate?

Coombe Hill was part of the Chequers Estate until the 1920s, at which point it was transferred to the care of the National Trust.

What is the listing status of Chequers and its surrounding gardens?

Chequers itself is listed as Grade I on the National Heritage List for England. The landscaped park, woodlands, and formal gardens surrounding the estate are listed Grade II on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens.

Why was Winston Churchill advised to use Ditchley instead of Chequers during the early part of World War II?

During the early stages of World War II, security at Chequers was deemed inadequate to protect Prime Minister Winston Churchill. Consequently, he temporarily used Ditchley in Oxfordshire until security measures, including camouflaging the approach road, were implemented at Chequers by late 1942.

How did Winston Churchill's use of telephones at Chequers differ from Neville Chamberlain's?

While Neville Chamberlain's administration had only one telephone located in the kitchen at Chequers, Winston Churchill immediately installed a full set of telephones on his desk and utilized them extensively.

What significant legal designation was applied to the Chequers estate in 2007?

On June 1, 2007, the Chequers estate was designated as a protected site under Section 128 of the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005, making trespass onto the estate a criminal offense.

What important political event led to the term 'Chequers plan'?

In July 2018, Prime Minister Theresa May held a Cabinet meeting at Chequers to finalize the details of Britain's withdrawal from the European Union. The resulting policy proposal became known as the Chequers plan.

Where did Boris Johnson choose to recover after his COVID-19 hospitalization in 2020?

Following his hospitalization at St Thomas' Hospital in London due to COVID-19 complications, Prime Minister Boris Johnson chose to recover at Chequers.

What does the infobox indicate about the completion date of Chequers?

The infobox states that Chequers was completed around 1556, approximately 469 years prior to the current date.

What is the address of Chequers?

Chequers is located at Missenden Road, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP17 0UZ.

What are the geographic coordinates for Chequers?

The geographic coordinates for Chequers are 51 degrees, 44 minutes, and 36 seconds North latitude and 0 degrees, 46 minutes, and 55 seconds West longitude (51.74333 N 0.78194 W).

What is the 'long room' at Chequers known for?

The 'long room' at Chequers is famous for housing a significant collection of national antiques and books, including a diary of Horatio Nelson and the Chequers Ring.

What is the significance of the Chequers Ring?

The Chequers Ring is notable as one of the few surviving pieces of jewelry that belonged to Queen Elizabeth I.

Is the art and memorabilia collection at Chequers open to the public?

No, the collection of art and memorabilia housed at Chequers is not open to the public.

What other official residences are mentioned in relation to Chequers?

The article mentions 10 Downing Street (the Prime Minister's London residence), Chevening (the Foreign Secretary's country residence), and Dorneywood (another country house for high-ranking officials) as related official residences.

What international leaders have visited Chequers, as depicted in the gallery?

The gallery images show visits from leaders such as Queen Elizabeth II with US Presidents Richard Nixon and George H. W. Bush, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris, alongside their respective Prime Ministers Edward Heath, Margaret Thatcher, Tony Blair, Rishi Sunak, and Keir Starmer.

What is the Grade I listing designation referring to?

The Grade I listing designation, indicated by a pink border in the infobox, signifies that Chequers is a building of exceptional architectural or historic interest, as recognized by Historic England.

What is the National Register of Historic Parks and Gardens designation for Chequers?

The landscaped park, woodlands, and formal gardens surrounding Chequers are listed as Grade I in the National Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, indicating their significant historical and landscape value.

What is the purpose of the Authority Control section at the end of the article?

The Authority Control section provides links to various international and national databases (like VIAF, GND, LOC, BNF) that catalog information about Chequers, helping to ensure consistency and provide further research resources.

What does the 'Chequers Estate Act 1917' pertain to?

The Chequers Estate Act 1917 is the legislation that formalized the gift of Chequers to the nation, establishing it as a country retreat for the serving Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

What was the significance of the 'Chequers plan' agreed upon in July 2018?

The Chequers plan was a set of proposals for Britain's exit from the European Union that was agreed upon during a Cabinet meeting held at Chequers under Prime Minister Theresa May in July 2018.

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Overview

A Seat of National Importance

Chequers, also known as Chequers Court, is the official country residence of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. This historic 16th-century manor house is situated near Ellesborough village in Buckinghamshire, nestled at the foot of the Chiltern Hills, approximately 40 miles (64 km) northwest of Central London. Its strategic location offers a tranquil retreat from the capital while remaining accessible.

A Gift to the Nation

Since 1921, Chequers has served as a sanctuary for successive prime ministers. The property was bequeathed to the nation by Viscount Lee of Fareham through a Deed of Settlement, formalized by the Chequers Estate Act 1917. This act ensured the house would provide a place of rest and recreation for the nation's leaders, fostering a connection to history and a space for contemplation away from the pressures of governance.

Architectural Heritage

The manor house itself is a significant example of Elizabethan architecture, with its origins dating back to approximately 1556. Over centuries, it has undergone various modifications, including a period of Gothic-style alterations and subsequent restoration to its original Elizabethan character. Today, it is recognized as a Grade I listed building, signifying its national importance.

Origin of the Name

Tracing the Lineage

The name "Chequers Court" originates from the Checker family, who held ownership of the estate during the 12th and 13th centuries. The earliest recorded member, Elias del Checker, served as an usher in the King's Exchequer. His name, Latinized as "de Scaccario," translates to "of the Exchequer," referencing his official role. The estate passed through various hands, including William de Hauterive (or Hawtrey), through marriage, eventually leading to the construction of the current manor.

Historical Evolution

Tudor Foundations

The current structure of Chequers was largely built by William Hawtrey around 1565, possibly incorporating elements of an earlier building. This manor house stands as a testament to Tudor-era architecture. Notably, Hawtrey hosted Lady Mary Grey, sister of Lady Jane Grey, during her period of confinement from 1565 to 1567, a room from which she slept still preserved in its original state.

Cromwellian Connections and Gothic Interlude

Through subsequent marriages and inheritances, the estate passed through families like the Wooleys, Crokes, and Thurbanes. In 1715, the owner married John Russell, a grandson of Oliver Cromwell, establishing a significant connection to the Cromwellian era. The house still houses a notable collection of Cromwell memorabilia. In the 19th century, under the Greenhill-Russell family, architect Henry Rhodes introduced Gothic-style alterations, including battlements and pinnacles, departing from the original Tudor aesthetic.

Restoration and Modernization

Towards the end of the 19th century, Bertram Astley undertook a significant restoration, guided by Reginald Blomfield and completed by architect John Birch. This effort aimed to return the house to its Elizabethan origins, removing the Gothic embellishments. In the early 20th century, Arthur Lee and his wife Ruth acquired the property. Ruth Lee, an American heiress, worked with architect Henry Avray Tipping on the design of several walled gardens from 1911 to 1912.

The Prime Minister's Residence

A Gift for Governance

Recognizing the changing political landscape and the need for a country retreat for prime ministers, Arthur and Ruth Lee established the Chequers Trust. In 1917, the Chequers Estate Act formalized the gift of the house and estate to the nation, intended as a place of rest and recreation for serving prime ministers. The Lees officially departed on January 8, 1921, marking the beginning of Chequers' role as a vital national asset.

Wartime Security and Communications

During World War II, Chequers' security was deemed insufficient for Prime Minister Winston Churchill, who temporarily relocated to Ditchley in Oxfordshire. Security measures, including camouflaging the approach road, were later implemented. Churchill significantly modernized the house's communication infrastructure, installing numerous telephones, a stark contrast to Neville Chamberlain's single kitchen phone.

Contemporary Significance

In the 21st century, Chequers continues to be a site of national importance. In 2007, it was designated a protected site under the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005, criminalizing trespass on the estate. It has hosted significant political events, including Theresa May's 2018 Cabinet meeting to discuss the "Chequers plan" for Brexit. In 2020, Prime Minister Boris Johnson recuperated at Chequers following his severe COVID-19 illness.

Notable Gatherings & Figures

A Stage for Diplomacy

Chequers has been the backdrop for numerous significant meetings between British Prime Ministers and international leaders, reflecting its role in diplomacy and statecraft. While images cannot be displayed, historical records and photographs document key moments:

1970: Prime Minister Edward Heath hosted Queen Elizabeth II and U.S. President Richard Nixon and his wife, Pat Nixon.
1984: Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher met with U.S. President George H. W. Bush.
2001: Prime Minister Tony Blair hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin and their wives.
2014: Prime Minister David Cameron met with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte.
2023: Prime Minister Rishi Sunak welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
2024: Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer hosted Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris.

These interactions underscore Chequers' enduring role in international relations.

Related Sites

Official Residences and Retreats

Chequers is one of several significant official residences and country retreats associated with the British government and other heads of state:

10 Downing Street: The primary office and residence of the Prime Minister in London.
Chevening: The country residence of the Foreign Secretary.
Dorneywood: Another country house utilized by high-ranking British officials.
Camp David: The U.S. Presidential retreat in Maryland.
Harrington Lake: The Canadian Prime Minister's country retreat.

These locations serve distinct but complementary roles in the functioning of government and diplomacy.

References

Source Material

The information presented on this page is derived from the following sources:

Historic England. "Chequers (1125879)". National Heritage List for England. Retrieved 22 December 2016.
Jenkins, J. Gilbert (1967). Chequers: A History of the Prime Minister's Buckinghamshire Home. Pergamon Press. pp. 9–19.
Williamson, Elizabeth; Pevsner, Nikolaus (2003). Buckinghamshire. The Buildings of England. Yale University Press. p. 234. ISBN 0-3000-9584-8.
Bertie, Lady Georgina (1845). Five generations of a loyal house. Pt. 1, containing the lives of R. Bertie and his son Peregrine, lord Willoughby. p. 40.
Hawtrey, Florence Molesworth (1903). The History of the Hawtrey Family. Vol. I. George Allen. pp. 30–31.
Major, Norma (2001). Chequers: The Prime Minister's Country House and its History. Little, Brown and Company. p. 27. ISBN 0-3168-5844-7.
Birch (Architect.), John (1883). The Architecture of the Stables and Country Mansions. William Blackwood & Sons.
Chequers Estate Act 1917. www.legislation.gov.uk. Retrieved 7 April 2020.
Major, Norma (2001). Chequers: The Prime Minister's Country House and its History. Little, Brown and Company. p. 75. ISBN 0-3168-5844-7.
Historic England. "Chequers (1000595)". National Heritage List for England. Retrieved 22 December 2016.
Lee, Arthur (1974). Clark, Alan (ed.). A Good Innings; The Private Papers of Viscount Lee of Fareham. J. Murray. ISBN 0-7195-2850-X.
Major, Norma (2001). Chequers: The Prime Minister's Country House and its History. Little, Brown and Company. p. 99. ISBN 0-3168-5844-7.
Winston Churchill. Ditchley Foundation. Archived 14 July 2011 at the Wayback Machine.
The Churchill Centre. Archived 16 October 2006 at the Wayback Machine.
Roberts, Andrew (2009). Masters and Commanders: The Military Geniuses who Led the West to Victory in World War II. Penguin. p. 36. ISBN 978-0-1410-2926-9.
Home Office Circular 018 / 2007 (Trespass on protected sites – sections 128–131 of the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005). GOV.UK. Home Office. 22 May 2007. Retrieved 18 July 2017.
BBC News. "At-a-glance: The new UK Brexit plan agreed at Chequers". 7 July 2018.
BBC News. "Coronavirus: Boris Johnson says 'It could have gone either way'". 12 April 2020.

Bibliography

Hawtrey, Florence Molesworth (1903). The History of the Hawtrey Family. Vol. I. George Allen.
Lee, Arthur (1974). Clark, Alan (ed.). A Good Innings; The Private Papers of Viscount Lee of Fareham. J. Murray. ISBN 0-7195-2850-X.
Major, Norma (2001). Chequers: The Prime Minister's Country House and its History. Little, Brown and Company. ISBN 0-3168-5844-7.
Williamson, Elizabeth; Pevsner, Nikolaus (2003). Buckinghamshire. The Buildings of England. Yale University Press. ISBN 0-3000-9584-8.

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Chequers Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date. It does not represent an official publication of the UK government or any related entity.

This is not official government information. The details provided herein are for general knowledge and historical context. For official information regarding Chequers or the functions of the Prime Minister's office, please refer to the official government websites.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Chequers: The Prime Minister's Country Estate

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

🏛️ A Seat of National Importance

👑 A Gift to the Nation

📜 Architectural Heritage

Origin of the Name 🏷️

🧐 Tracing the Lineage

Historical Evolution ⏳

🏗️ Tudor Foundations

⚔️ Cromwellian Connections and Gothic Interlude

🎨 Restoration and Modernization

The Prime Minister's Residence 🇬🇧

🤝 A Gift for Governance

🛡️ Wartime Security and Communications

🌍 Contemporary Significance

Notable Gatherings & Figures 🖼️

👥 A Stage for Diplomacy

Related Sites 🔗

🏛️ Official Residences and Retreats

References 📚

📜 Source Material

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

A Seat of National Importance

A Gift to the Nation

Architectural Heritage

Origin of the Name

Tracing the Lineage

Historical Evolution

Tudor Foundations

Cromwellian Connections and Gothic Interlude

Restoration and Modernization

The Prime Minister's Residence

A Gift for Governance

Wartime Security and Communications

Contemporary Significance

Notable Gatherings & Figures

A Stage for Diplomacy

Related Sites

Official Residences and Retreats

References

Source Material

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice