Quite how this could be described as an ugly building or even the second most ugly building in Britain does somewhat defy belief, but there are some who think this building is anything but delightful.
The history behind this mansion is one of romance and shattered dreams. John Corbett, known as the ‘Salt King’ and the builder of this magnificent chateau, fell in love with a French lady, or perhaps it is more appropriate to say French-educated, by the name of Ann Eliza O’Meara.
A condition of his marriage to her involved the building of a French chateau, the Chateau Impney you see today. The marriage did not last long, but the building remains as a reminder of that once romantic gesture that was responsible for its creation.
The Chateau is built in the style of Louis XIII and was completed in 1875. The salt industry of Droitwich was once the town’s main source of income, and John Corbett was a prominent figure in Droitwich history. Born in 1817, he was the son of a Black Country barge owner.
The Chateau Impney stands in 130 acres of parkland and is now a hotel providing modern and luxurious accommodation as well as conference services. Considerable effort went into the landscaped parkland, which includes lakes, waterfalls, tropical gardens, and an extensive variety of trees and shrubs.
Chateau Impney is a well-known local landmark near Droitwich, and anyone entering from the north or from Junction 5 of the M5 motorway will pass by it. The website for Chateau Impney can be found at www.chateau-impney.com.
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