A home with a whole lot of history in Bosham

For some a homes history is of no interest, but for Debbie Collino finding out who lived at Critchfield House, Bosham has been fascinating.

“I have enjoyed learning about its history so much,” she said.

“It was a guest house before I bought it, a vicarage during the war and a hotel in the 1940s called the Viking.

“We think there may have been a monastery here at some point and there are some stones that date from Saxon times I think and can be found at the church in Bosham.

“I have loved finding out more about it and adding to its history.”

The detached period home dates back to the early 17th century, although remarkably it is not a listed building, but it retains its period charm and many of its original features.

These include the flagstone flooring in the hall, exposed beams and carved wood fireplace in the sitting room.

“Many of the beams are from decommissioned boats,” explained Debbie. “The fireplace has a Tudor Rose on it and the beams have the marks from when it was on the ships with nicks and nails.”

Although not listed Debbie has said that they haven’t done any major changes to the outside of the property and any work inside has been superficial.

“When we moved in there were lots of doors from different eras and all mismatched so we updated that and replaced the, with all the same,” she added.