Bankes family

They owned large portions of land throughout Dorset and made significant contributions to the political history and development of the country.

The first family seat was in Corfe Castle which was destroyed during the civil war when the Bankeses, who were cavaliers (royalist followers), were besieged by parliament forces.

Their new home, built at Kingston Lacy has survived until the present day, under the guide of the National Trust.

In the late 19th century the Bankeses built a summer beach house at Studland in Dorset.

A large pub in the village, frequented by beach visitors, is known as the Bankes Arms Inn.