£60, all day

Ampthill is a remarkable Grade II* private house uniquely opened to members. The central portion is the home of Sir Timothy Clifford, former Director of the National Galleries of Scotland and a leading collector. His old master paintings adorn the main rooms, which he has restored with his wife, Jane, the leading interior decorator.

Built originally for 1st Earl of Ailesbury in the 1680s, the principal north front is John Lumley’s of 1704-07, for a new owner, 1st Lord Ashburnham, with input by William Winde. In 1769 2nd Earl of Upper Ossory engaged Sir William Chambers to build the wings and create the present interior with plasterwork by Joseph Rose.

After lunch at Wrest Park, six miles away, members will tour this important house and garden, both Grade I, managed by English Heritage and designed (1834-39) by its owner Earl de Gray in Louis XV style. He was first President of the RIBA. We shall see numerous striking 18th century buildings in the garden and park of which Thomas Archer’s recently restored Baroque domed garden pavilion has an Ionic trompe l’oeil interior. The orangery, bathhouse and grotto were added in the late 18th century. Capability Brown was responsible for significant changes to the parks at both Ampthill and Wrest.  Andrew Wells will lead.

Members to make their own arrangements for transport.  This visit is for Georgian Group members only. 

If tickets have sold out for this event, please email members@georgiangroup.org.uk to be added to the waiting list.