He commissioned architect Sir Ernest George to add a matching wing to the northeast and developed the garden into one of the most famous in England.

After his death it and the surrounding 1,000 acres (400 ha) natural landscaped grounds were left to the Forestry Commission.

Used as a base for Canadian Army soldiers during World War II, who dug out parts of Robinson's garden to plant potatoes and leeks to supplement their rations, postwar it was left derelict for many years.

[5] In 1958, the property and grounds were leased to business partners Robin Howard,[5] and restaurateur Peter Herbert and his first wife Pip.

[10] He has since invested in a new building infilling the courtyard to provide a new restaurant designed by architect Sir Charles Knowles, another long-term guest.