Geograph - photograph every grid square

Grade I Listed farmhouse of late 16th, early 17th century. Originally part of Gibeon�s Gate Farm, part of it started life in the 16th century as a timber frame, possibly to shelter animals (now the west wing). Early in the 17th century the two storey building was erected, presumably as a dwelling. Later in the 17th century the two buildings were connected with the one storey and attic southern cross wing. Willy Lott (1761-1849) was a tenant farmer who worked the 39 acres around Flatford. In 1825 he purchased the house and land. The house was in a bad state of repair, when builder Thomas Parkington bought Flatford Mill Estate in 1926. The house was restored over the next two years and started to become a tourist attraction. Around this time it became known as Willy Lott�s House. The National Trust bought the house in 1943 on Thomas's death but had the cost refunded when the estate liquidated more than expected. In 1946 the National Trust leased Willy Lott�s House, Flatford Mill and Valley Farm to the Field Studies Council to use the buildings to accommodate school parties, families and individuals wishing study in this unique learning environment, which the Council continues to do to this day.