Ham House is a historic Stuart-style structure and tourist attraction located in Surrey, London. Built in 1610 by Sir Thomas Vavsour, it was later owned by the Duchess of Lauderdale and restored by the 9th Earl of Dysart. Visitors can tour the house, gardens, and outbuildings, including an Orangerie turned restaurant. The gardens feature a cherry orchard, statues, and a labyrinth, and are home to various wildlife. The National Trust has owned the property since 1948.
Ham House is a historic structure and popular tourist attraction located along the River Thames in Surrey, London. The property was built over four centuries ago and is celebrated as a well-preserved example of Stuart design and architecture. Visitors to Ham House can tour the house itself or simply choose to view the extensive gardens and outbuildings.
In 1610, Sir Thomas Vavsour oversaw the building and design of Ham House as a personal family home. Vavsour was a member of the court of King James I of England. After Vavsour’s death, the house remained in his family until it fell into the ownership of the Duchess of Lauderdale in 1655.
The Duchess of Lauderdale is celebrated as one of Ham House’s most unusual and well-remembered owners. She ordered a major addition to the House to accommodate her 11 children and also as a demonstration of her wealth and power. The Duchess is also associated with numerous scandals involving politics, royalty and her love life. Some have claimed that she haunts Ham House to this day, and many visitors take part in ghost tours hoping to get a sneak peek at the house’s former mistress.
By 1884, Ham House had largely fallen into disrepair as its owners chose to live elsewhere. In 1884, the 9th Earl of Dysart became owner and undertook the task of restoring the house to its former glory. The earl not only financed the restoration of the antique furniture inside the house, but also oversaw the restoration of the roof and added electricity and central heating. After several other notable owners, the National Trust took over ownership of the house in 1948.
Today, visitors to Ham House can enjoy Stuart-style architecture and 17th-century furnishings. The garden also serves as a popular attraction and is celebrated for its large cherry orchard, statues and labyrinth. More than 17 species of trees can be found in the garden and a variety of birds and other wildlife roost among the many bushes, plants and shrubs in the garden.
Many of Ham House’s original outbuildings remain standing, including an old ice house, dairy and still. A 17th-century building known as the Orangerie has been converted into a restaurant and café. The Orangerie was once used to store citrus fruits during the winter months, and today the chefs rely on local produce straight from the Ham House gardens as they prepare meals for guests.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
