Thursday 5th June 2025, 10am:  £50

Join the South West Chapter for a visit to three Dorset landmarks. The day will begin with a visit to Crichel House (Grade I), originally built in 1742 and substantially enlarged in 1770 which included the James Wyatt designed rooms to the east side of the house. The lake and landscaped park were also added during this period. Further additions to the property took place during the Victorian period including a north wing, a new parish church and a Harold Peto designed Italian Garden.

The house was used as a school from 1940 until 1960 when the Marten family moved back in. Since 2013 the Crichel House Estate has been owned by Mr and Mrs Richard Chilton who have won awards from the Georgian Group for the best restoration of a country house interior and conducted renovations to a number of buildings on the estate including the house and church roofs.

Following this members will visit Blandford Forum for a look at some of the most important local sites.

The visit will end in Sherborne (approx. 40 min drive from Blandford Forum) to visit the Abbey Monument, Shell Grotto and Sherborne House (winner of the 2024 Georgian Group award for Restoration of a Georgian Building in an urban setting).

 The event is for members only. Please read our terms and conditions before booking. Transport and refreshments are not included in the visit.