St Albans AL3 6AH
Gorhambury House
Gorhambury House is a Palladian-style house near St Albans, Hertfordshire, England. It was built between 1777 and 1784 to replace Old Gorhambury House, which was left to fall into ruin. It was designed by Sir Robert Taylor and commissioned by James Grimston, 3rd Viscount Grimston.
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About
Gorhambury House, located near the town of St Albans in Hertfordshire, England, is a magnificent historic house that offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past. As a tourist attraction, Gorhambury House has a lot to offer, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful gardens making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in English heritage and culture.
The house was built in the 16th century by Sir Nicholas Bacon, who was the Lord Keeper of the Great Seal to Queen Elizabeth I. The house was designed by the renowned architect Robert Smythson, who also designed other famous buildings such as Hardwick Hall and Longleat House. Smythson's signature style of architecture, known as the Elizabethan Classical style, is evident in the design of Gorhambury House, with its symmetrical façade, decorative gables, and ornate windows.
The house is surrounded by beautiful gardens, which were originally designed by Bacon's son, Sir Francis Bacon. The gardens feature a mixture of formal and informal areas, including a parterre, a walled garden, and a woodland walk. There is also a beautiful lake, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including swans, ducks, and geese.
Visitors to Gorhambury House can take a guided tour of the house, which includes a visit to the Great Hall, the Long Gallery, the Drawing Room, and the Chapel. The Great Hall is the largest room in the house and features an impressive oak staircase, as well as a collection of portraits of the Bacon family. The Long Gallery is a 102-foot-long room that was used for entertaining guests, while the Drawing Room is a more intimate space that was used for family gatherings.
The Chapel is a beautiful space that features a stunning altarpiece by the Italian artist Francesco Vanni. The altarpiece depicts the story of the Nativity and is one of the most impressive works of art in the house.
Aside from the guided tour, there are also a number of events and exhibitions that take place at Gorhambury House throughout the year. These include art exhibitions, concerts, and outdoor theatre performances. The house is also available for private hire, making it a popular venue for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions.
Overall, Gorhambury House is a fascinating and beautiful tourist attraction that offers visitors a unique insight into English history and culture. With its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich history, it is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the St Albans area or the wider Hertfordshire region.
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