Built in the 18th century, this Italian-style baroque hall has been shaped by its numerous occupants. It has an intriguing story to tell, beginning with the wealthy teenage who built the mansion to its occupation by the RAF in the Second World War to the re-invention as a country-house gallery, in partnership with the National Portrait Gallery. Today, the architectural grandeur of the rooms is a perfect setting for many 18th-century portraits featuring people who have influenced British history and its culture.
In the garden, the story continues with numerous sections showing Italian, Victorian and even horse-racing influences: traditional herbaceous borders contrast with sweeping lawns, formal gardens and bed, wildlife area, and the restored working walled garden.
The Walled Garden Restaurant serves hot lunches, sandwiches and snacks. You can choose from plants and extensive home and garden ranges in the shop. The Victorian laundry holiday flat provide exclusive our-of-hours access to the gardens.
Got a little more time to spare? Then why not get off the beaten track on riverside paths and explore the 380 acres of parkland that complete the estate.
