Wappenbury Rebound - The Hall

The former home of Jaguar's founder now owned by Aussie Scott Shearman

- Maureen Alexander

IN 2017 SCOTT SHEARMAN, AN Australian businessman, purchased Wappenbury Hall, the home of Sir William and Lady Lyons since 1937. As an indication of his appreciation, he hosted a small group from Sydney following the 2019 Goodwood Revival. Scott was guest speaker at the Jaguar National Rally in 2018. Wappenbury Hall was built in 1894 and is half an hour from the old Jaguar headquarters in outer Coventry.

Quintessentially an English country estate, the brick house with fine stone detailing is situated behind a brick wall and immaculately clipped hedge. It is approached via a sweeping gravel drive. You notice the beautifully maintained formal gardens surrounding the imposing house with a mixture of well laid out colourful flower beds, lawns and clipped shrubberies. Scott has plans to create a rose garden which can be viewed from the abundant floor to ceiling mullion windows throughout the living rooms. We were welcomed at the large arched front door with a door mat announcing ‘Wappenbury Hall’. Entering the oak panelled hall Scott led us to the music, drawing, dining and games rooms. Large carpets cover the parquetry floors. The dining room has beautiful gilded plaster and stained glass windows depicting trades in the area.

Originally from Adelaide, Scott spent time in Melbourne and visits his children in Sydney for extended periods. They in turn visit him, enjoying the house.

Scott had told us of his plans to renovate the stables which have not been used for many years. A number of cars used by Sir William, including a MkX limousine, have been acquired and will be a feature.