TREASURE DESCRIPTION: Located in the grounds of Carshalton House, the Tower contained a water-powered pump which supplied water to the main house as well as fountains within the garden. Within the building was a bathroom, an orangery, saloon and robing room plus a long gallery. Hence a social focus for Sir John Fellowes and his guests. The building is almost church-like in appearance or similar to a small chapel. The article by Donald Johnson which appeared in Country Life Magazine on 21st December 1978 states: ‘Perhaps the earliest country house bathroom in England to survive in relatively complete condition is that in the base of the water tower at Carshalton House.’ This uniqueness would be significant enough but together with Carshalton House both buildings still lie in part of the original Charles Bridgeman formal garden. The Tower itself is responsible for containing a reservoir of water pumped up from a lake, thus providing the house, offices, stables etc. with a more than adequate supply for all their needs.
These treasures were made as part of The Building Exploratory, Wandle Treasures project. This project was part of the wider Living Wandle Landscape Partnership Scheme, funded by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund.
