Freston Tower, follies and folly towers at follytowers.com (original) (raw)

F r e s t o n T o w e r

This red brick square tower with some blue brick decoration, consists of six stories and sits by the River Orwell. The ornate structure has a stairwell in a turret attached to its eastern side, and was built around 1550 in the grounds of Freston House. Supposedly it was used for the education and study of a young lady called Ellen de Freston, hence the name, though most likely it was built as a lookout, as it has a profusion of windows. The building - now Grade 2 listed, is about 12 foot square and also has small turrets for appearance at each corner, each ending in a pinnacle. The fifth floor has the only reasonable accommodation, although it does not seem to be built for habitation.
Photograph:- Ed Broom (see below).

Oldest Folly ?
As the first three stories of the south side lack windows and the brick work is different in places, some people suggest that at one time it was part of a larger structure, this would then mean that it is not a true folly. This aspect of its history aside, it is generally regarded as being the oldest example of a folly tower in the country.

Dedicated Web Site
Ed Broom has an excellent site devoted to an in depth look at this folly, so for a more detailed study than what I provide, take a look Here.

Visiting:-
The best view of the tower is from Bridge Wood in the 130 acre Orwell Country Park, on the far bank of the River Orwell.
The tower is now owned by the Landmark Trust, who are converting it to holiday accommodation.

Co-Ords: 617800 239660 / TM 178396

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