Polesden Lacey, nestled in the picturesque countryside of Dorking, Surrey, stands as a testament to Edwardian grandeur and opulence. This magnificent country house, set amidst 1,400 acres of stunning grounds, holds a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Originally purchased by William McEwan, a Scottish brewer, in 1906, Polesden Lacey underwent significant renovations under the ownership of the Hon. Mrs. Ronald Greville. Her lavish entertaining transformed the estate into a social hub, frequented by British royalty, politicians, and celebrities of the time.
The architectural charm of Polesden Lacey is evident in its elegant design, featuring a blend of Edwardian and Georgian styles. Visitors are captivated by the grandeur of its interiors, adorned with exquisite furnishings, fine art collections, and ornate decorations. The estate offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the early 20th-century British elite, with rooms such as the Gold Saloon and the Dining Room exuding an air of sophistication and refinement.
Beyond its magnificent mansion, Polesden Lacey's extensive grounds provide a haven of natural beauty and tranquility. Visitors can explore lush gardens, manicured lawns, and scenic walking trails that offer breath-taking views of the Surrey Hills. The estate's walled garden bursts with vibrant blooms throughout the seasons, while the surrounding woodlands provide a serene backdrop for leisurely strolls. Whether delving into its history, marvelling at its architecture, or simply basking in its idyllic surroundings, Polesden Lacey continues to enchant visitors with its timeless charm and allure.
Camping Scamping sadly timed our visit with winter renovations, so arrived to a scaffolding clad front entrance, grounds statues covered up, lots of dust sheets over furniture inside and only a few rooms open to the public downstairs, with no access upstairs. This was somewhat disappointing, as only the scaffolding was advertised on the websites. Looking around what was open inside the house did hint at the luxury hidden within the rest of the house, and we will be back to explore the rest. We therefore spent most of the day scamping around the grounds and estate walks - there are lots to choose from and we did a combination of bits from all four of them! It was a squelchy, muddy and slip-slidy sort of day, but great fun!
Nestled within the verdant embrace of the Surrey Hills, Polesden Lacey invites visitors to embark on a journey through its sprawling estate walks, spanning an impressive 1,400 acres of picturesque countryside. These walks, meticulously crafted to cater to varying abilities and preferences, offer a tapestry of natural wonders waiting to be discovered. From ancient woodlands to meandering riverside paths, each trail promises a unique adventure, promising breath-taking vistas and moments of tranquil reflection amidst nature's embrace.
One of the estate's most cherished routes is the Estate Walk, a leisurely stroll that winds its way through sun-dappled glades and verdant meadows. Here, visitors can lose themselves in the symphony of birdsong, catch glimpses of elusive wildlife, and marvel at the timeless beauty of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, informative signposts beckon, revealing tales of bygone eras and shedding light on the rich biodiversity that thrives within these hallowed grounds.
For those seeking a more invigorating challenge, the Ranmore Circular Walk beckons with promises of adventure and discovery. Ascending onto the sweeping expanse of Ranmore Common, hikers are rewarded with sweeping panoramas of rolling hills and undulating valleys. Amidst the fragrant heathlands and ancient woodlands, every step offers a chance encounter with the wonders of the natural world, from vibrant wildflowers to majestic oak trees standing sentinel against the passage of time. Whether tracing the gentle curves of the Estate Walk or conquering the rugged terrain of the Ranmore Circular, Polesden Lacey's estate walks beckon with the promise of unforgettable experiences and timeless beauty.
So, Camping Scamping's overall review of Polesden Lacey? Go in the summer for the house, but the grounds will delight all year round!
Pricing:
National Trust members are free (including car park)
Non-members: Adults £15, children £7.50, Family £37.50, Car Park £4
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