The Manor Office: Its Transformation Over the Years
Discover the remarkable journey of H Tiddy's office at The Manor Office, St Mawes. For over a century, our location has been a cornerstone of property expertise, evolving while maintaining its deep roots in the Roseland Peninsula.
A Rare Continuity
Few estate agents can trace their story back more than a century, and fewer still have remained in the same location throughout that time.
Our H Tiddy office, positioned beneath the front sun terraces of The Manor House in St Mawes, has evolved thoughtfully alongside the business itself. While its interior has changed over the decades, its foundations, both physical and philosophical, remain steadfast. It is a building that reflects our history, our continuity and our long-standing commitment to the Roseland Peninsula.
The Beginnings
H Tiddy Estate Agents was founded by Henrietta, “Hettie”, Tiddy. Hettie began married life with Ernest Tiddy at Bank House in St Mawes before later moving to The Manor House, originally part of the Spry Estate. At the time the business was established, The Manor House was operating as a residence for a small number of business people.
From these modest beginnings, the firm grew organically, built on personal relationships, discretion and deep local knowledge of the Roseland Peninsula. The Manor House soon became intrinsically linked with the identity of the business, anchoring it both physically and symbolically within the community.
The Business Matures
Archive sales particulars from 1959 show the business operating from The Manor House and describing itself as House and Estate Agents, Auctioneers and Valuers, Insurance Agents. Even then, the letterhead declared, “Established for more than half a century.” The address had not changed, the ethos had not changed, and the business had simply matured, strengthening its reputation across the peninsula.
Adapting to Change
The 1970s brought structural change when The Manor House was converted into six apartments. It was during this period that our dedicated office space emerged beneath the front gardens, creating the distinctive position we occupy today. The move formalised the business’s physical presence while retaining its close connection to the building’s heritage.
As the property market evolved, so too did the office. In 2003, the Holman family extended the premises to accommodate a growing team and rising client expectations. The approach was measured and considered, enhancing functionality while preserving character.
Further refinements followed. In 2009, new window displays were installed along with a new canopy, strengthening our presence and modernising presentation. In 2015, the office was redecorated and new carpets were fitted, refreshing the interior and ensuring a welcoming and professional environment. Each stage of improvement reflected the same guiding principle, thoughtful evolution rather than reinvention.
The Latest Chapter
More than a century after Hettie negotiated her first sale, the Manor Office continues to evolve. Having endured two World Wars, economic cycles, recessions, Covid lockdowns and profound social change, it feels entirely fitting that the office adapts with quiet confidence to the present day.
Our most recent refurbishment marks the latest chapter in its story, creating a brighter, warmer and noticeably more spacious working environment while respecting the heritage of the building we call home. We are delighted with the transformation, which has created a bright, welcoming and very pleasant environment in which to work.
Our grateful thanks go to Katherine and John Holman for the interior design and for overseeing the refurbishment, and to local builder Paul Gibson and his excellent team for completing the project and building works within just two weeks while we temporarily relocated nearby. We are also sincerely grateful to Helen Billington for kindly allowing us the use of her apartment during the works.
A Constant Presence
In an industry often defined by relocation, rebranding and consolidation, remaining in the same place for over 100 years is unusual. For us, continuity matters. We are proud of our heritage. The Manor Office is not simply where we work, it represents stability, trust and a long-standing commitment to the Roseland Peninsula.
Please do pop in and see us when you are next passing. We would be delighted to show you the most recent transformation.
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