Claydon House

​Often referred to as “an unexpected Georgian jewel”, Claydon house is a fascinating testament to eighteenth century extravagance. Its unassuming exterior hides some of England’s most extraordinary interiors; soaring double height rooms crowded with intricate carvings of fanciful creatures and exotic designs.

Claydon House was built in the eighteenth century by Ralph, 2nd Earl Verney, as a demonstration of wealth and status. He set out to create a country house of extraordinary grandeur to dazzle his wealthy neighbours and outdo his political rivals. Thirty years later he was facing financial ruin.

The house that remains today is around a third of the Earl’s creation and is saturated with surprising stories and fascinating objects from four hundred years of Verney family history, which includes connections by marriage to nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale.

The House, and areas of the gardens that are open to the public, are now in the care of the National Trust and open to visitors. 

Check National Trust Claydon website for opening times.