Ham House, near Richmond Surrey

The core of Ham House seen here dates from 1610, and was built by Sir Thomas Vavasour, Knight Marshal to James I from 1604.  Knights Marshall were responsible for maintaining order at the King's Court.   

Ham House is by the Thames - see the coade stone statue of Old Father Thames in the foreground - and this enabled Sir Thomas to commute to court at Richmond, Whitehall and Greenwich.

Ham was given by James I to his eldest son Henry Frederick Prince of Wales who allowed Sir Thomas to build Ham House.  The bay windows in Restoration style and the entire rear, which can be seen peeping out on either side were built in 1673.