Guildford makes a great base for visiting nearby stately homes and gardens. There is much heritage to explore when you visit Guildford.
Built in 1757-9 by Stiff Leadbetter for Admiral Edward Boscawen, with prize money won by the Admiral during his campaigns in the Seven Years War. Hatchlands house is fairly plain, faced with locally made bricks. The house and gardens were given to the National Trust in 1956, however, the park remains in private ownership. Some of the house's contents have also been acquired by the Trust in lieu of estate duty! The park was landscaped by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown in 1781, there are two formal gardens on either side of the house replacing a French garden and transforming part of a disused canal into an ornamental lake. A sunken Dutch garden was created by Frances, Countess of Onslow at the north front of the house in the late 19th century.
This beautiful home still fundamentally the same house that was built in the 16th century. There have been minor internal alterations - and an entire wing was added in the 17th century and then lost. The story of Loseley Park begins with the purchase of the Manor of Loseley during the reign of Henry VII by the Sheriff of Surrey and Sussex, Sir Christopher More, direct ancestor of the current occupants some 500 years later.
Limnerslease is the historic home and studios of Watts Gallery – Artists' Village founders, George and Mary Watts. Designed by the architect Sir Ernest George, it was built specifically for the couple and was completed in 1891.
At Limnerslease you can visit the recreation of George’s studio. He painted many of his artworks here. You will also discover more about Mary Watts, as an artist, designer and writer. From her childhood to the creation of Watts Cemetery Chapel and the Potters’ Arts Guild.
You can also learn about Mary and George's life in Compton. Visit some of the rooms in their Surrey home, which feature unique decorative features and interior designed by Mary.
Entry to Limnerslease: Artist's Home is included in your ticket to Watts Gallery Artists' Village.
West Horsley Place is a Grade I listed mediaeval manor house and estate of great beauty and historic significance. The manor house dates from 1425, though there has been a building on site since Saxon times. Our recent work to conserve and maintain the house has made our principal rooms safe and comfortable for public access, but the house remains on Historic England's Heritage at Risk Register.
More to explore in Guildford
