In 1541 following the dissolution of the monasteries and the College, its lands and revenues were assigned to Sir Edward Knevitt but in 1845 the Thompson College estate was exchanged for the Suffolk estate of the 5thBaron Walsingham. Thus Thompson College, or College Farm as it became known, passed back to the de Greys of Merton. It is fortuitous twist of fate that a descendant of the original owners now lives in College Farm. Katharine had the idea to develop the business by offering the grounds of the house as a venue for weddings. Richard and I had our own wedding reception here back in the 80's and it was beautiful — we walked from the church back to the house where we had a marquee in the garden with the front of the house as a stunning backdrop to our reception. My vision is to be able to offer the same magical experience to other couples.â€
