 | |
Danson House was built c 1766 in Bexleyheath. In 1994 it was restored by English Heritage, which had identified the house as 'the most significant building at risk in London'. The restoration won the Georgian Group National Award in that year, and the following year the house's initial season after thirty five years of closure was formally opened by Her Majesty the Queen.
The house is primarily the creation of two men: John Boyd, the owner, and his architect Robert Taylor. The house and park reflect a preoccupation with the Golden Age of antiquity and are full of the symbolism of classical mythology. The house is a revival of Italian villa design from the area around Vicenza in the second half of the sixteenth century. The leading architect at that time was Andrea Palladio.
The house has a fine entrance hall, a stunning dining room, an elegant salon and an opulent library with the Danson organ (which is still played at recitals in the house). Visitors can also ascend the elliptical staircase and see the bedroom floor. The breakfast room, looking out over the parkland, now houses a tea room serving tea, coffee, home made cakes and light lunches. The shop in the basement has a unique range of items evocative of the house and its history.
Thursday 1st April - Sunday 31st October
The house is open to visitors on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays. During June, July and August the house is also open on Tuesdays.
Opening times: 11am to 5pm: last entry at 4.15pm
PLEASE NOTE THAT AS DANSON HOUSE IS OWNED BY A REGISTERED CHARITY IT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE HHA FRIENDS SCHEME AND MEMBERS & FRIENDS WILL HAVE TO PAY AN ENTRANCE FEE TO VISIT THIS PROPERTY
Please contact the property for up to date opening times
Available for filming/photography, this Palladian Villa was built circa 1766 and has been fully restored. Features include 'George England' organ 1766, suite of 19 paintings by Charles Pavillon and a beautiful parkland setting. For further details please contact Antony Iredale of The Collective on 020 7284 8910 or visit http://location-collective.co.uk/location-detail.html?id=1805
Education workshops for school children are currently in development.
Programme of lectures with lunch (in Tea Room) during the year.
Civil ceremony and Reception facilities.
For ceremonies there is a choice of three splendid rooms, two seating 65 guests and on 60 guests.
New for 2007, a dedicated marquee will be situated on the lawn immediately outside the house. Please call Lynda Weaver (01322 526574) for further information.
Several rooms available. Please call Lynda Weaver (01322 526574) to discuss your requirements.
|