Upton House, Warwickshire

National Trust.
Visited c. 2005
While the house is old in origins, it has been updated a number of times and it’s the contents and gardens which are notable. It contains a major collection of paintings and porcelain, including Old Masters. To the rear are the magnificent gardens, which descend by terracing towards water. There is also a kitchen garden. Allow for a half-day visit.

West Wycombe Park, Bucks

National Trust
Visited c.2005, revisited 2024
Extensive and attractive grounds with large lake and follies. The house interior has a number of opulent rooms on the ground floor with painted ceilings, fine furniture, paintings, and objets d’art. Note that the opening dates and hours are rather restricted. Suggested visit time 2hrs. No imaging permitted inside the house.
The estate was owned by the Dashwoods, one of whom was a founder-member of the Hellfire Club, whose naughty activities were no doubt exaggerated by political opponents.
Village, Hill, Church, Mausoleum, and Caves (not NT) are nearby if you have a whole day.

Entrance front
North Front
Park
East Front
South Front
Frescoes above south porch
View across lake
Island temple