Mary Townley (architect)

A set of townhouses she designed in 1820 became the Regency Hotel and later included a language school.

An account written by her relative and tutor, the artist Sir Joshua Reynolds, praises Mary Townley's flair for architectural design, making her unique among women of her day.

The Townleys had nine children but after their eldest and youngest sons died in 1808 and 1810, Mary lost her interest in fashion and society.

As a result of the devout Christian inclinations of two of her other sons, evenings were instead devoted to Bible readings.

After her husband died, Mary became active in the local church until her death on 19 March 1839, aged 86.