The Townshend Family
The Townshend family: nearly 900 years at Raynham
The land surrounding Raynham has been in the Townshend family since the 12th century. Raynham Hall itself was commissioned by Sir Roger Townshend in the early 17th century – a man whose architectural ambition helped define the house we see today. His legacy lives on in every stone and cornice.
A family of pioneers
The Restoration of the Monarchy in 1660 marked a turning point. Sir Roger’s younger brother, Sir Horatio Townshend, was a trusted ally of King Charles II and became 1st Viscount Townshend of Raynham in 1682 following the King’s visit to the Hall in 1671.
The second Viscount, Charles “Turnip” Townshend, helped usher in the Agricultural Revolution with his pioneering four-course crop rotation system – turning Raynham into a centre of farming innovation.
From Charles Townshend’s pivotal role in triggering the American Revolution with the Townshend Acts, to Thomas Townshend (Lord Sydney) lending his name to the city of Sydney, the Townshend legacy is written into world history.
Today’s custodians: the 8th Marquess Townshend
Charles George Townshend became the 8th Marquess in 2010. Educated at Eton and Cirencester Agricultural College, he has overseen the ongoing restoration of Raynham Hall and remains actively involved in agricultural, heritage and community initiatives.
He is pictured here with his wife, Lady Alison Townshend, daughter of the late ambassador Sir Willis Combs. Lady Townshend played a vital role in the life of the house and, during their tenure at the Hall, championed the celebrated Raynham Recitals, a series of chamber music performances held in the Marble Hall.
Viscount Raynham
Lord Thomas Charles Townshend, styled Viscount Raynham, is the son of the 8th Marquess Townshend and his first wife, the late Hermione Ponsonby.
He qualified as a Chartered Surveyor in 2005 with Bidwells LLP and later joined Knight Frank’s Farms and Estates team, specialising in the sale and acquisition of investment farms for private and institutional clients.
In 2016, Viscount Raynham returned to take on the role of Chief Executive of the Raynham Estate. Under his leadership, he has championed contemporary farming methods, introduced renewable energy initiatives and overseen the diversification of the estate into hospitality, tourism and retail. He has also managed a full overhaul of the estate’s property portfolio.
In 2025, Tom and his family moved into Raynham Hall, opening a new chapter in the Townshend family’s history.
Raynham Secret Supper Club and
Sunday Lunch at The Copse
13/14 September 2025
Seasonal feasting. Long tables. Norfolk skies.
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