The Vision
James and Sophie’s vision for Parnham Estate is to save and restore an exceptional historic house, celebrating its past while sustaining its future. Their wish is to open the estate for the community and visitors to enjoy in more ways than ever before.
THE FUTURE OF PARNHAM
Parnham represents one of the most ambitious heritage restoration projects in Britain today. The revival of an extraordinary historic estate, preserving its architectural legacy while creating a sustainable future for generations to come.
Over the past five years, working closely with Historic England and Dorset Council, the team has undertaken significant stabilisation and restoration works to safeguard the house and prevent further deterioration. Alongside these essential emergency repairs, key planning consents have been secured for the Boathouse, Beehive Lodges, River Lodges, Dower Houses and the reinstatement of Parnham’s original formal entrance.
These milestones form part of a long-term vision to restore the estate in its entirety, creating a place where heritage, hospitality, craftsmanship, culture and nature can thrive together.
Parnham’s future is not simply about preserving a historic building. It is about reimagining how great country estates can contribute to modern life – supporting local economies, championing traditional skills and welcoming visitors to experience one of Dorset’s most remarkable places.
custodians of parnham
Parnham’s revival is guided by the shared vision of James and Sophie Perkins, whose commitment to heritage, creativity and stewardship lies at the heart of the estate’s transformation.
For more than two decades, James has been responsible for the restoration of some of Britain’s most important historic houses and listed buildings. His passion for architecture, antiques, craftsmanship and design, combined with extensive experience delivering complex heritage projects, has shaped an approach that balances authenticity with ambition. His work has received recognition for its sensitivity, architectural excellence and commitment to preserving significant historic buildings.
Alongside this, Sophie has led the reinvigoration of the wider estate, transforming neglected landscapes into thriving gardens, orchards and habitats. Her belief in the power of nature, creativity and community has helped establish Parnham as a place where people can reconnect with the land through food, craft, learning and shared experiences.
Together, James and Sophie see Parnham as more than a restoration project. Their aim is to create a living estate: a place where heritage is actively cared for, where creativity flourishes and where future generations can experience the beauty, knowledge and craftsmanship embedded within historic houses. Through their combined experience in hospitality, conservation and placemaking, they are building a model for how remarkable estates such as Parnham can be preserved and sustained long into the future.
Artisans & Craftspeople
For centuries, Parnham has played an important role in the cultural and architectural heritage of Dorset. Today, its restoration continues that tradition by supporting a network of local suppliers, specialist craftspeople, artisans, growers and makers whose skills are essential to the estate’s future.
From master stonemasons and traditional joiners to metalworkers, glaziers, furniture restorers, gardeners and landscape specialists, the restoration of Parnham provides opportunities for heritage skills to be practised, preserved and passed on.
The estate is also becoming a home for artists, designers, craftspeople and entrepreneurs who share a belief in the value of making, creativity and place. By championing traditional skills alongside contemporary innovation, Parnham seeks to contribute to the cultural and economic life of Dorset while helping safeguard knowledge that might otherwise be lost.
The restoration of great houses has always relied on communities of expertise. At Parnham, those traditions continue through a shared commitment to craftsmanship, collaboration and excellence.
the art of escape
Parnham offers a rare opportunity to experience an evolving historic estate from within. Surrounded by parkland, woodland and the dramatic landscapes of the Jurassic Coast, it is a place that encourages a slower pace, curiosity and connection.
Unlike a conventional hotel, Parnham blends the atmosphere of a private home with the imagination of a creative retreat. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in a setting where history, design, nature and culture intersect. From intimate stays and private celebrations to workshops, exhibitions, seasonal events and outdoor pursuits, every experience is shaped by a sense of place and discovery.
With beautifully restored bedrooms already completed within the main house, alongside its historic library, dining hall, sitting rooms and cellar speakeasy, guests can now stay within one of Britain’s most fascinating restoration projects and witness its remarkable journey first hand.
James and Sophie have built an international reputation for exceptional hospitality, celebrated for creating extraordinary spaces that feel both inspiring and deeply personal. At Parnham, that philosophy continues: offering guests not simply accommodation, but an invitation to become part of the story.
