Danson House, an 18th-century house in Bexleyheath inspired by Italian villas, underwent restoration in the 20th century and won the Georgian Group National Award in 2000. It is now a museum and event space, featuring original features such as a grand spiral staircase and 18th-century wall paintings. Danson Park surrounds the house and is open to the public year-round.
Danson House is a late 18th century house in Bexleyheath inspired by the 16th century Italian villas created by owner Sir John Boyd and renowned architect Sir Robert Taylor. It fell into disarray in the 20th century and was restored from the 18th to 16th. The restoration was aided by the daughter of the second owner, Sarah Johnston, who painted detailed watercolors of the interior. This decade-long restoration won the Georgian Group National Award in 2000 and was re-opened by Queen Elizabeth in 1995. Since 2005 the house has been available for various functions throughout the seasons and the public can visit the area during opening periods for a small fee.
In 1995, English Heritage acquired the house and said the amount of deterioration in the house over the years put it at high risk, so a period of restoration began. As of 2011 Danson House is used for various public and private functions throughout the year. For part of the year it is open as one of Britain’s most popular museums of 18th-century life and architecture.
Danson House museum features include audio-visual presentations, period displays, and exhibits. Stewards are available to guests for tours and questions about the history of the house. We also rent out areas of the house and park for wedding ceremonies.
Danson House still bears many of its original notable features. It features a grand spiral staircase, opulent entrance halls and reception rooms, and the Danson organ which is still used for recitals. As of 2011, the grand dining room still retains its original 18th-century wall paintings. The original breakfast room includes a tourist tea room where a light lunch is occasionally served. Most of the furnishings were supplied by the Bexley Heritage Trust. Surrounding Danson House is the large Danson Park, which is normally open to the public all year round.
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