Author Description

Wrest Park was home to the de Grey family for over 600 years. The present house, built in the 1830s and designed by Thomas, 2nd Earl de Grey, is in the 18th-century French style. It stands in magnificent gardens, originally laid out by Henry, duke of Kent, that form one of the most complete remaining early 18th century formal landscapes in the country. Later additions by successive generations of the de Greys mark every major change in taste in English garden design until the mid-19th century.Within the grounds are many fine garden buildings, including Thomas Archer’s superb baroque pavilion, and a collection of statuary of national importance. This guidebook provides a tour of the house and newly restored gardens, and sheds light on the many different characters involved in their creation.