Chiswick House is one of the most glorious examples of 18th century British architecture. The third Earl of Burlington (1694- 1753), who designed this elegant Classical villa, drew inspiration from his 'grand tours' of Italy.
A promoter of the Palladian style originally pioneered in Britain by Inigo Jones, Burlington sought to create the kind of villa and garden found in the suburbs of ancient Rome. To do so, he employed William Kent to create sumptuous interiors to contrast with the pure exterior.
Inside, you can discover Old Master paintings, which are displayed to enhance the pictures in the Red and Green Velvet rooms. They emphasise the artistic diversity which characterised Burlington's combination of home and private gallery. The Classical gardens are a perfect complement to the house. There is level access to most of the grounds (except for Terrace Walk, owing to a gradient).Wander among the statues in the Italianate gardens and look out for the buildings hidden in the trees.
The Chiswick House and Gardens Trust (registered charity 1109239) is working with local groups and project partners on a major œ12.1m project to revitalise the park and gardens. For more information, please visit the website on www.chgt.org.uk
NEW FOR 2008:
Rysbrack: An important painting by Pieter Andreas Rysbrack (1685 - 1748) of the Old and New House has recently been added to the collection. The painting forms one of a set of views of Chiswick commissioned by the 3rd Earl of Burlington between 1729 and 1732. It is an exciting painting representing the relationship between Burlington's New House (the current Chiswick Villa) and the outline of the old Jacobean mansion, which no longer exists.
Palladio 500: 2008 marks the 500th anniversary of the birth of the Italian Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio (1508-1580). Download a special Palladio themed tour of Chiswick House prior to your visit by following the link on the left.