History lesson

Buying and renovating a large country house that started life as a coaching inn has been a fascinating journey for Jo and Nigel Tutton

- ALISON GIBB

ENTRANCE HALL

The round glass table, which Jo bought in Mexico, makes a stunning centrepiece here.

Framed botanical prints, £100 each, Acanthus Interiors. Visual Comfort Darlana brass pendant lantern, £495, Lightsource

DRAWING ROOM

In this room, originally the ballroom, Jo has eschewed curtains to enjoy the views of the garden and woodland.

Vintage marble-topped chest, £495, Mrs G-D Interiors. Striped sofa in Olive Sacking, £90m, Guy Goodfellow Collection. White sofa, from a selection, Sofas & Stuff

KITCHEN

There were major damp problems in this part of the building and ten tons of clay needed digging out.

The cabinetry is by Harrison & Pope Handmade Kitchens; a similar kitchen without appliances would be £15,000. Kitchen counter, £4,000, Tudor Granite. Stone flooring, £80sq m, Mandarin Stone

HOME TRUTHS

THE PROPERTY A former coaching inn converted in 1861

LOCATION Herefordshire

ROOMS Entrance hall, drawing room, morning room, dining room, kitchen, study, laundry room, pantry, cloakroom, six bedrooms, eight bathrooms

PURCHASED 2018

PREVIOUS PROPERTY 'We lived in the USA, Mexico and Scotland and owned a converted Victorian Police Station nearby,' says Jo.

DINING ROOM

Green and white hues bring a relaxed feel to this otherwise formal space.