I went to a wedding reception here several years ago when the college still occupied the house. Then I thought how much in need of TLC it was all salmon pink décor. What a transformation.It is hard to imagine that this was a rich boy's bachelor pad, there is so much gold leaf and intricate moulding..The Gothic Horror genuinely originate here long before Bram Stoker..The ticket takes the form of a guide book written and printed by Horace Walpole himself with notes to bring it up to date.The Strawbery Hill Trust are trying to find pictures and furniture of the 1780s as sadly the contents were sold off in 1842.This is a work in progress with more rooms to be restored.The shell seat in the garden needs repair.I think they close for the winter in the first week of November.There is a lift.
This is just a lovely house full of character to visit. You will marvel at the workmanship and vision that went into it.Lovely cafe as well
We visited the amazing Gothic Folly, the home designed and lived in by Horace Walpole, with a group of friends on a wowcher ticket which included the house visit with a guided tour, and a cream tea in their cafe. The welcome to this wonderful wedding cake of a building was very warm, we were early so were offered the choice of having our tea before the tour, which we accepted. The scones were fresh baked, the servings of jam and cream were generous, and the teapot was refilled with a smile, which set us up nicely for the tour. Each room has its own volunteer guide who delights in informing you of the very interesting history of the house in general, and their room with its features, furnishings and artworks in particular. Ample parking and clean loos ensure the whole visit is pleasant and comfortable. Another of London's 'hidden gems'. Recommended.
I had the opportunity to visit this estate, set beautifully in the Richmond/Twickenham area; the history and story behind this charming mansion has been magnificently captured through their lawns and the great and warm reception offered to the guests that visit to savour their scones and clotted cream or crumpets with jam. It was a real delight to find this place, as although I live in London, I never took the time to enjoy such sorroundings and would definitely recommend this to all who visit the country or want a peaceful and civilised environment on any afternoon. the restaurant staff are attentive and helpful and happy to indulge your every wimp. I tried the little shop on site and could not help but have a whole tub of Loseley Icecream!
Very interesting - a visit to the first ever 'Victorian Gothic' style property.Downside - the tour starts with a chat outside - this took about 15 minutes and was too long for me to stand upright (disabled - with walking stick) - I believe you can ask for a chair.....Very reasonably priced Cafe (eg £3.50 for monster triple decker toasted cheese ploughman sandwich)Note: Limited Car-Parking - couldn't find any disabled spaces.Note: this property shuts in early November for the winter.
An unusual white Gothic style house, converted and extended by Horace Walpole, writer and art and antiques collector of the eighteenth century, as a country retreat and gallery. The collections were sold many years ago, but the house retains its atmosphere, and fine fireplaces and plasterwork. Much money has been spent on renovations, repainting and repairs. Indeed some of the house is still a work in progress. The tour gets better in the second half as this is more completely restored.There is a timed ticket entry system, and after a short introductory talk at the door you can wander at your own speed through the building. There are volunteers in most rooms, and all the volunteers from the ticket office to the tour end are chatty, friendly and helpful. Whether they will be as chirpy by November remains to be seen.The tour terminates at a pleasant cafe and restaurant, which was quite busy even in March, and may not cope at busier times.Afterwards we walked through the grounds of the adjacent St. Mary's University, and visited the cathedral and (upstairs) Crypt chapel, in the footsteps of two recent Popes. A little beyond is a small Gothic chapel from the Walpole era, which was said to be usually locked, but was open (maybe because it was a Sunday). I noticed some University offices nearby, so perhaps they have a key.Strawberry Hill House is open until November 9 2015, Mon. and Wed. 2-4.20(last entry), and Sat. and Sun. Noon to 4.20 (last entry). Admission £12 (free to HHA members, half price to NT and EH members.)
Sense of wonder going around this amazing house. The volunteers are extremely knowledgeable and enhance the visit. The cafe serves a delicious range of cakes, so a good afternoon out.
Having seen this building on the BBC programme Restoration, i was keen to see how it had faired, well I was not disappointed, the building is lovely. Restoration is still being under taken,but what has been done is beautiful. The staff there were so knowledgeable and interesting to listen too. From the tea rooms, which were charming to the Staff in the building it was a wonderful day out, shall visit it again in the Spring when I am sure that it will bring further suprises.
A Gothic Style House designed on the instruction of Horace Walpole and has seen better times but now that renovation and renewal is taking place to preserve it for the future it is possible to see behind the plasterwork/wallpaper etc. Sparsely furnished apart from some of the small bed-chambers the star room was The Gallery and its gilded features. Tours are timed and the enthusiasm of the volunteer guides is remarkable. Not much to see outside in the gardens but on a nice sunny day ideal for a picnic.
Had a very pleasant experience skating at the ice-rink on Monday evening. The rink was quite empty which was nice. The staff running the rink are very helpful and friendly.It was lovely to skate and look at the Gothic Folly of Horace Walpole all lit up.Can recommend.