Kelmarsh Hall & Croome Collection, Northants.

The house was built in the 1730’s by virtuoso architect James Gibbs, and is a very attractive red-brick building of symmetrical and reticent design. The present interior decoration owes much to society decorator Nancy Lancaster, who lived at the house. Several rooms upstairs are used for an exhibition of the Croome Collection of fine 18th century furniture . Outside, behind the house are extensive and popular gardens, and surrounding house and garden is a working estate.
The house and contents are well worth a visit, and the gardens are also a popular attraction. The house is open on Thursdays only, plus bank holidays (Sun & Mon), but the gardens are open much more often. It might be wise to arrive in good time if you want to see everything, as admission to house or Croome is by two separate conducted tours. House, Croome and garden are all treated as separately charged items, but you can get combined tickets.