Owners of a Grade II-listed manor in the Cotswolds have been left "devastated" after a major fire tore through the property. The blaze at Barton House, which was purchased for £8.28 million in January 2025, is believed to have been started by an electrical fault in a light fitting on the first floor.
Fire crews were on the scene for nearly 12 hours, working to extinguish the flames before the fire was brought under control just before midnight on Saturday. Images from the scene reveal that the roof of the historic manor has been obliterated, though the full extent of the interior damage is not yet clear.
The owners, who have chosen to remain anonymous, described themselves as being in "shock" following the "devastating" incident. They expressed gratitude for the support received from local residents, with approximately 30 people from Guiting Power assisting with a clean-up effort on Sunday.
Locals have also shared their sadness over the damage to the historic property, which dates back to the 17th century and was restored in the early 20th century. The Hambro family were long-term residents of Barton House before its sale to a private buyer last year.
A spokesperson for Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that eight engines were dispatched to the domestic fire in Guiting Power. The operation involved the use of three jets, two hose reels, and 24 breathing apparatus units. The service received the stop message at 11:30 p.m. on Saturday.
The manor, located within the Cotswold National Landscape, also features a pool house, swimming pool, and tennis court. Firefighters from Chipping Campden, Winchcombe, and Moreton were among those who responded to the incident.
"It was a huge fire, and it looks as though the top floor may be lost, with lots of damage to the rest of the house," one local resident commented. "Very sad to see such a beautiful house so badly damaged, especially after all the recent refurbishment."
