Walnut Tree House, thought to have been constructed in 1728, is attributed to Elliott Bishop of Lincoln’s Inn and initially served as lodgings for the proprietor of the adjacent brewhouse, which was later converted into a malthouse.
Hugh Mason of Fortnum & Mason is said to have lived there in 1728.
The original Georgian structure boasted six rooms spread over three floors, featuring a central staircase and chimneys at each end, with underground cellars beneath. It is believed that the original Georgian building remained as it was until the 1840’s when the two storey Victorian extension was built (the current footprint) it then remained intact until it was subdivided by the then owners at the beginning of the 20th Century.

Throughout its history, Walnut Tree House has been home to various notable individuals such as the artist Enoch Ward, but perhaps the most renowned nationally was Richard Fortnum, the son of the founder of Fortnum and Mason, esteemed grocers and tea dealers. Richard took over the business in 1815 and managed it until 1845.