One of the highlights of my spring in London was an invitation for a private tour of the magnificent Spencer House. Nathan Jones, the Property Director, and Vicky Wilson, the Collections Manager, were incredibly gracious, welcoming and helpful in pointing out to me the array of beautiful details for possible inclusion in London in Bloom. Spencer House was built in 1756 by John, 1st Earl Spencer following his marriage to Georgiana Poyntz. The house is one of the most sumptuous private residences ever built in London and today is one of the city’s finest surviving 18th-century aristocratic town houses. Above and below, the Painted Room, which is one of the most famous 18th-century interiors in England. It was completed in November 1765 and is a celebration of the Triumph of Love, in particular of Lord and Lady Spencer’s own happy marriage.
Above and below, the Palm Room, where the gentlemen retired after dinner. The palm trees were chosen as a symbol of marital fertility and also the belief in the close connection between classical architecture and nature.
The breathtaking domed ceiling in the Palm Room, above.
The lavish and exquisite decor in the Great Room is the setting for important Old Master paintings and historical British furniture.
Below, chandeliers and ceiling in the Great Room.
The Music Room (above). All the wood is polished to absolutely gleaming perfection.
Floral details abound throughout the house. Above left, the Painted Room. Below, a chandelier in Lady Spencer’s room.
This post is merely an introduction to the wonders to be found in Spencer House. It is a must-see when visiting London and I’m thrilled that I was able to do so. Thank you so much to Nathan, Vicky and everyone at Spencer House that made my visit possible. I can’t wait to share which details made it into London in Bloom!
xo
G
Spencer House is open to the public for guided tours on Sundays from 10:30 t0 5:30 and on Monday mornings for pre-booked tours. Garden Open Days for 2019 are June 2nd, June 16th and June 30th.
27 St. James’s Place, London, SW1A 1NR
Wow! What an incredible place. Beautifully shot1!!
Thank you so much, David! It’s a spectacular location!
Princess Diana’s relatives? I’d love to see that and Althorp as well! Stunning.
Hi Lynette! Yes, Spencer House is owned by Diana’s brother, Earl Spencer. But it is on a long term lease to the Rothchilds who paid for the restoration. I hope you do get to visit!