Wrest Park
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Wrest Park was home to the De Grey family from the 13th century until 1917.
The present house was built in 1834-39 to the designs of then-owner Thomas de Grey - 2nd Earl de Grey and first president of the Royal Institute of British Architects. He drew inspiration from French architectural books and buildings he had seen on trips to Paris. The decorative layout and features of the house were produced by his own hand.
Wrest has some of the earliest Rococo Revival interiors in England. The Countess's Sitting Room and the Archer Pavilion are particularly stunning examples. The house was restored by English Heritage in 2007-11, and a new visitor centre added.
Surrounding the mansion are 90 acres of parterres, fragrant borders, sweeping landscapes and woodland walks, showcasing French, Dutch, Italian and English styles side by side. The original 18th-century design was laid out by George London, with Capability Brown adding new features 1758-60.
Within the grounds is a bath house featuring a thatched roof and cobbled floor inlaid with a pattern of deer bones, a Chinese temple and bridge, and over 40 statues, including a memorial to Brown. Wrest Park and its gardens were the shooting location for Lily Allen's music video, The Fear.
Visitor information
Address
Silsoe, Luton, Bedfordshire, MK45 4HR
01525 860000
Opening times
Grounds are open. Please check the Wrest Park website for full opening hours.
Visitor information
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