Avenue House Estate
On 1st November 2002 Avenue House Estate Management (AHEM), a new trust comprising local residents and users of the Estate, took over the day to day operation of Avenue House Estate. A 125-year lease was granted by the London Borough of Barnet and AHEM (now AHET) now has the task of improving and promoting the house and grounds.
You can help maintain the house and grounds by making a donation to the Trust, booking rooms in the house for meetings, parties and functions or by volunteering to help. Visit www.avenuehouse.org.uk or email info@avenuehouse.org.uk for details. The support of the local community is vital for the future success of the Estate.
About
Avenue House
In 1918 Avenue House and its very attractive gardens were left to the people of Finchley for their enjoyment by Henry ("Inky") Stephens. Built in 1859, it is a fine building standing in its own grounds,which have been beautifully landscaped and contain many unusual trees. A guided book to the trees in the grounds has been published and can be obtained from Avenue House itself.
The house is available for functions, meetings and other events, and many local societies hold their meetings there (including the Finchley Society). It is also an approved venue for civil ceremonies including weddings and baby namings.
The Society helped to restore the laboratory where "Inky" Stephens formulated his famous ink, but sadly this was destroyed in 1988 when an arsonist set fire to the house. Much damage was done at that time but the building has been carefully and well refurbished. The Stephens Collection is open to the public.
The Bothy
At the eastern end of the grounds, Stephens built in the 1870s a bizarre early concrete structure known as the Bothy. The Grade II-listed building currently needs substantial repairs and is out of use, but AHET is seeking a way to restore it.
The Friends of Avenue House (FoAH)
FoAH exists to support and protect the Avenue House Estate. Their website www.friendsofavenuehouse.org tells more about their work, including fundraising events and volunteering on the Estate.
