Wednesday 14^th August 2019 – Belvoir Castle

Our visit to Belvoir Castle was a fascinating excursion into the history of the Duke of Rutland’s family since 1067.  We saw one of the finest examples of Regency architecture in the world in the castle today which was built in the early 1800s for the 5th Duke and is the fourth castle to stand on this site. The numerous paintings and treasures, which have been collected by the family for nearly 1,000 years, were wonderful.

The weather was against a full exploration of the gardens but a few intrepid members ventured to see how the lost plans of Capability Brown had come to fruition. Some also did the walks through formal gardens, woodland, Japanese, Duchess’s and Hermit’s gardens.

We also had very tasty food, drink, some retail therapy and good company.  In all a most enjoyable day.

Image – Belvoir Castle © By Nancy, Used under Licence: Creative Commons by SA 3.0

Wednesday 20^th May 2020 – Chatsworth

Chatsworth, the seat of the Duke of Devonshire, has been home to the Cavendish family since 1549.  It is a beautiful grade 1 listed English Baroque house in Derbyshire. The house is set in expansive parkland and contains an important collection of paintings, furniture, old master drawings, neoclassical sculptures, books and other artefacts.

Following our recent excellent study day on Chatsworth, and by popular demand, we will re-visit the house.

After our coach journey, there will be time to wander round the grounds before a special treat of lunch in a private dining room.

In the afternoon we will have a full tour of the house in small groups to learn more about the wonderful treasures to be found there.

Chatsworth has been selected several times as the nation’s favourite Country House.

Ticket price £65

Tickets will be on sale at the March meeting one hour before each lecture, and at later meetings if tickets remain.

Click here for the Chatsworth website.

Image – Chatsworth © By Tookapic, Used under Licence: Pexels

Wednesday 19^th August 2020 – Weston Park

Weston Park in Shropshire is the former home of the Earls of Bradford. The opulent 17^th century Mansion, housing some wonderful fine art, is set in 1,000 acres of Capability Brown landscaped grounds.

The Mansion contains tributes to the 3rd Earl’s love of horses. The Victorian library contains over 3,000 books and has unique Goblin tapestries, specially commissioned for the house.  The stunning dining room houses one of the country’s most impressive collections of paintings including works by renowned artists such as Sir Anthony Van Dyck.

The visit will include travel by coach, coffee on arrival, and time to explore the grounds.  We will then have a two course lunch.

After lunch we will split into 2 groups.  Group 1 will tour “The Mansion and its art work”, while group 2 will have a “Behind the Scenes” tour.

Between the tours we will have tea and cake to revive us. The groups will then swap over for the tours before departure.

Ticket price £56

Tickets will be on sale at the May meeting one hour before each lecture, and at later meetings if tickets remain.

Click here for the Weston Park website.

Image – Weston Park © Weston Park website