Hatchlands Park
Surrounded by 430 acres of beautiful Repton parkland, Hatchlands Park, near Guildford, Hatchlands was built in 1758 for Admiral Boscawen, hero of the Battle of Louisburg, and contains splendid interiors by Robert Adam.
Explore the large collection of keyboard instruments associated with famous composers such as Purcell, J C Bach, Chopin, Mahler and Elgar, or follow one of the way-marked trails and discover the rich wildlife in the park. There is also an ornamental garden designed by Gertrude Jekyll, which flowers from late May to early July and don't miss a visit in spring to see the carpet of bluebells and primroses in Little Wix Wood.
A licensed restaurant and a shop, selling National Trust merchandise as well as music related gifts, can be found in the lovely, atmospheric cobbled courtyard.
A recent addition to the paintings at Hatchlands is a newly discovered portrait of the 3rd Earl of Southampton, a patron of William Shakespeare for whom it is thought Shakespeare wrote many of his sonnets. The portrait shows the Earl in a camp pose and wearing makeup.
Walks are open daily from April - October between 11.00am - 6.00pm
House is open from April - October, Tues, Weds, Thurs, Suns, Bank Holidays and Fridays in August 2.00pm - 5.30pm.
Hatchlands Park, East Clandon, Guildford, GU4 7RT Tel: 01483 222482
