Getting the itch to escape outside the hustle and bustle of London...
I took a train to Strawberry Hill, yesterday.
Strawberry Hill was the home of Horace Walpole. Horace was the son of Sir Robert Walpole- the first PM of Great Britain. Horace is best known for his writing. A 'Man of Letters,' his most famous work is The Castle of Otranto.
Horace's castle is reflective of the gothic design. The guides mentioned that he had gathered numerous pieces of artwork and woodwork from his travels throughout Europe in his earlier years. Settling in to building his home, he took the gothic motif and carried it throughout the entire house. One part of the ceiling in the house was originally from Westminster Abbey!
If you are wondering if I'm related to him, from what we gather based on family trees, we should be.
The Walpole family crest was featured throughout the entire house. Numerous parts of the crest were featured on stained glass windows in a former bedroom.
And, the entire crest is painted on the ceiling in the library. I've decided that I must do the same in my future home!
If Horace and I are not related, and we are just two people who share a last name, we could have been great pals!
His library was heaven when I stepped in.
He enjoyed displaying his souvenirs from his travels around Europe throughout his house.
And, he liked a good garden-space.
It was a perfect Saturday outing. The whole trip took about three hours- journey time from my house to Waterloo and back, train ride, and exploring the grounds of Strawberry Hill. I recommend it to my fellow Walpoles around the world, and for those fascinated by historical buildings!
