Swindon & Wiltshire News
Weston’s oldest building gets a new thatch
The oldest building in Weston-super-Mare, and the last one in the seaside town with a thatched roof, is sporting a new ‘do’.
The new roof at the popular restaurant has been constructed using traditional thatching methods by master tradesman Richard Wright. The thatch was built over a new timber roof frame constructed by contractors R. J. Wright & Son.
The Old Thatched Cottage was built in 1774 as a holiday home on the beach – before the sea wall was constructed in 1885 – for William Leeves, who returned every summer to stay there.
In 2023 the building was awarded a blue plaque by English Heritage Blue Plaque for its association with Leeves, a soldier, poet, and musician.
The 251-year-old cottage has survived several severe storms and a few fires during its lifetime but has remained a distinctive presence on the seafront.
In 1960 the lease to the cottage was bought by one of Weston-super-Mare’s best-known businessmen, Axentis Michael, and this year marks the 65th anniversary of the business remaining in his family, with his daughter Maria running it for the past 40 years.
She said: “The extension was built in 1855 but has always had a flat roof, which lacked the charm and character of the cottage.
“That’s why we decided to invest in a thatched roof for the extension, too, and we’re delighted with how it has turned out, ensuring that our restaurant remains a landmark fixture of the Weston-super-Mare map for many years to come.
“The project marks the end of a three-year process to secure planning permission and Listed Building Consent to create the new roof, but it was worth waiting for.
“The past few years have been very challenging for the hospitality industry and The Old Thatched Cottage has seen many other restaurants come and, sadly, go.
“We believe our beautiful restaurant offers a truly special experience in an historic setting – which now looks better than ever – and by continuing to invest in the building and the business, we’re confident of being able to serve the residents of Weston-super-Mare and its many visitors for generations to come.”
