Hill Place since 1753 – from swash-bucklers to apple farmers

Captain Roger Martin bought the tithing of Hill in 1753 from the neighbouring Midlington estate with the money he gained on capturing two Spanish galleons in 1741. On his death, the estate passed to his niece and then to her son, Richard Goodlad. It is thought that the house was built by him with money made while working for the East India Company.

Hill Place first appears on maps in 1791 with Richard Goodlad returning from India and taking up residence by 1801. It appears to have significant influences of Sir John Soane and there are connections between the two families although proof that Sir John Soane actually designed the house has not yet been established. The estate then passed through several generations, though never to a direct descendent. In 1914 the estate (now totalling 1,059 acres and 10 properties) was broken up and sold. The house, park and model farm were bought by a Gosport property developer who maintained ownership from 1916 to 1977, albeit with two intervening sales of the house and park. An annexe was added on the east side of the house in the early 1930's.

In 1977 the house and park were bought by the present owner’s grandfather. The model farm is now a thriving fruit farm, Hill Farm Orchards, which Will Dobson, the present owner, joined in 2008. Will and his wife, Rebecca now live in the house with their three horses and two dogs. Will says, ‘This house loves a party, it’s well suited to a party and we want you to enjoy your party here.’ They look forward to welcoming you and your guests to their home.