Strawberry Hill
Strawberry Hill
Visiting Strawberry Hill is a truly theatrical experience. Magically lit by a unique collection of renaissance glass, its gloomy castle-like hall and grey gothic staircase lead dramatically to the magnificence of the gallery.
Created by art historian, writer and son of Britain's first Prime Minister Horace Walpole in the 18th century, Strawberry Hill is internationally famous as Britain’s finest example of Georgian Gothic revival architecture. It also inspired the first gothic novel The Castle of Otranto.
In contrast to the fashion of the time, Walpole’s garden with its winding paths, grove of trees, lilacs, syringas and honeysuckles ‘hanging down in festoons’ was a riot of informality.
On-Site Learning
At the core of this major restoration project has been the creation of a comprehensive education and interpretation centre using the restored House as its focus. Our aim is to provide an innovative and community-serving place providing enjoyment for a wide range of audiences.
The newly built education facilities include the addition of two purpose-built education rooms, both equipped with computers and AV equipment, and one designed as a wet room for arts and crafts and other more practical activities.
Within the department we are creating a supportive learning environment to inspire a love of Gothic Art and architecture, literature and history.
Outreach
Strawberry Hill House is committed to lifelong learning and offers inspirational learning opportunities for people of all ages.
Pre-school children, families, carers, parents, grandparents and adults of all ages can enjoy this beautiful house and state of the art facilities with disabled access.
We provide a broad range of courses and activities to suit all ages, abilities, and interests from art, craft, music and drama to gardening, literature and history.
Working in partnership with public and private organisations we also target those excluded from mainstream social and educational opportunities.
House Tours - A truly theatrical experience
Guided group tours of Strawberry Hill House are available at 11am or 4.30pm on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Our expert guides will take you on a 90 minute tour of the villa which will prove to be a truly theatrical experience.
Available to groups of 10 or more for £13.50 per person (concessions and discounts cannot be applied).