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Weston ParkHistoric Houses & Building
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At the heart of 1,000 acres of picturesque wooded parkland, the magnificent 17th century house at Weston Park has always offered a warm welcome to all of its visitors throughout the centuries. This family home of the Earls of Bradford has enchanted, enthralled and entertained, with a remarkable history waiting to be discovered. It is a history that stretches from the Domesday Book to the present day. It includes great artists and craftsmen, inspired collectors, sporting triumphs and natural history, family stories of laughter and also tears, fascinating historical figures, Prime Ministers and Presidents. Today this most entertaining family home is held in trust for the nation by the Weston Park Foundation, a charitable trust which continues to assure a warm welcome. The front door of the House at Weston opens into a world of fascinating and internationally significant treasures. From French Gobelin tapestries to Oriental ceramic works of art, furniture by royal makers Morel and Hughes and iconic paintings by old masters such as Van Dyck, Stubbs, Gainsborough, Constable; Weston has one of the greatest of art collections. Whether you want to view the collection in solitude with our informative illustrated guide whilst the children do one of our absorbing trails, or chat to our knowledgeable volunteer guides, a visit to the House is a voyage of learning and discovery which provokes and answers questions. Who made it? When? Where? Who used it? How is it cared for today? Outside, Weston's Victorian Gardens are a colourful haven at the heart of the eighteenth century Pleasure Grounds and Park landscaped by Lancelot "Capability" Brown, with stunning vistas through magfascinating follies and collections of trees. Younger visitors will want to climb aboard the Miniature Railway, whilst there is also the chance to let off steam in the Woodland Adventure Playground. Giant chess and games in the Stables Courtyard offer fun for children of all ages, whilst the nearby Walled Garden hides a secret world with an Orchard and Yew Hedge Maze (planted January 2006)