Evington Park House: A Brief History

Standing at the heart of Evington Park, Evington Park House has been a landmark of the village for centuries. Although much of its present appearance dates from the nineteenth century, parts of the building are considerably older, with evidence of a substantial house occupying the site during the late seventeenth century.

Over the years, the estate has been associated with several notable local families, including the Burnabys, whose influence helped shape both the house and village life during the Victorian period. The family supported local schools, St Denys Church and a variety of community activities, becoming important benefactors within Evington.

During the First World War, the house was known as Knighton House and took on a very different role when it was offered for use as Knighton VAD Hospital (Leicester/4) under the British Red Cross. Between 1914 and 1919, hundreds of wounded and recovering servicemen passed through its doors. Its peaceful surroundings made it well suited to convalescence, while local volunteers worked tirelessly to provide care, comfort and practical support for the soldiers.

Following the war, the house continued to evolve. Architect Tom Trevor Sawday remodelled the property and later played a key role in securing its future. In 1947, he sold the house and surrounding parkland to Leicester Corporation on the condition that the grounds should be preserved for public enjoyment.

Thanks to that foresight, Evington Park survives today as one of Leicester’s most valued green spaces, enjoyed by generations of local residents and visitors.

The years during which the house served as a VAD hospital represent one of the most important chapters in its history. The work of volunteers such as Miss Alice Henderson, Commandant of the hospital, and Miss Gwendolen Whittingham, its Quartermaster, ensured that wounded servicemen received care and support during their recovery. Their dedication forms an important part of both the history of Evington Park House and the wider First World War story of Evington.