Goodwood House

In 1999 the BBC is screening Aristocrats, a real life drama about the glamorous and independent-minded daughters of the 2nd Duke of Richmond. The family were leaders of early Georgian society. Before their marriages the daughters lived both in London, in the fashionable Richmond House on the banks of the River Thames, and at Goodwood, their father's country seat. It was here that Kildare wooed Emily, and that Sarah passed the long days during her banishment from society. Caroline's husband, Lord Holland, is shown at Goodwood in a painting by Stubbs that still hangs in the Front Hall. The charming Meissen snuff box, given to the Duchess as a reconciliation present four years after their elopement is also on view. The old hunting lodge at Goodwood was first purchased by the girls' grandfather, the 1st Duke of Richmond. He was the natural son of King Charles II and his beautiful French mistress, Louise de Keroualle. The Duke was renowned for his love of life and brilliance at entertaining - a tradition which continues to this day. The French interest was pursued by the 3rd Duke, who as Ambassador to Paris collected wonderful French furniture and SŠvres porcelain which can still be seen today. Now refurbished by the Earl and Countess of March, Goodwood is not only a beautiful house to visit, but has also established a worldwide reputation for excellence as the perfect location for all manner of corporate, private and incentive entertainment requirements. OPENING TIMES SUMMER: 21 Feb - Easter (4 Apr): Sundays only. Easter Sun - 27 Sept: Sun & Mon. August: Sun - Thurs, 1 - 5pm. Closed on occasional Event Days: 18/19 April, 9/10 May, the whole of June, 19 Sept. Please ring Recorded Info. line to check. Connoisseurs' Days Group visits with special guided tours can be booked. Famous Goodwood teas