Dr. Henry Stephens was the inventor (in 1832) of the famous “Blue-Black Writing Fluid”, later developed into ink. The family firm manufacturing the ink and various accessories lay the foundations of a considerable family fortune. His son, Henry Charles Stephens, continued the development of the family business. He was a member of Parliament and during his lifetime fought numerous battles on behalf of local interests. His involvement in local affairs, and his nickname “Inky” Stephens have since remained familiar to several generations of Finchley people.

Henry “Inky” Stephens bought Avenue House in 1874, altered and extended it, adding, among other things, a laboratory, where he carried out his experiments in writing fluid. The grounds were landscaped and many rare trees planted, still here for us to see and admire.

Please note that the Stephen collection  Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 14:00 – 16:30

There are lots of things to see for example the gardeners that are open that are open on different days throughout the year, so please check out the website for further information or Facebook and Twitter for all the latest information