Trip ref. Wad

Waddesdon Manor is a French Renaissance-style chateau, built in the 1870s by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild to entertain the fashionable world and house his impressive art collection. It is now a National Trust property managed by the Rothschild Foundation.

As you walk around, admire the spectacular rooms designed by a French architect, who took inspiration from Parisian houses of the 1700s. Look out for the monkeys imitating humans on the wall panels! 

You’ll get a feel of the weekend party house in the Dining Room, where the table is set for 24 guests, just as it was in those days. Amazingly, the Rothschilds used over 400 pieces of porcelain to entertain their guests.

The house is also full of many 18th-century French objects including two desks: one for Queen Marie-Antoinette and the other for King Louis XV’s daughter. There’s also a carpet from the palace of Versailles and a vase in the shape of a ship — only 10 were made by the royal Sèvres porcelain factory, of which Baron Ferdinand owned three. 

The Victorian garden is considered one of the finest in Britain with its parterre, seasonal displays, fountains and statuary. At its heart lies the aviary, stocked with species once part of Baron Ferdinand's collection.

We will leave Excel, Walton around 9.30am.  We arrive with time to buy coffee etc, with entry to the house between 12 and 12.20pm. 

Once inside, you are free to wander around at your own pace.  There are a couple of places to buy lunch, or eat a packed lunch in the grounds.  We should be back in Walton 6-7pm. Timing to be confirmed nearer the date. 
Cost:  National Trust non members £36.95.   NT members £14 with your membership card.  

HOW TO BOOK FOR A DI’S DAY OUT

To enquire about a place on a trip please email Di at daysout@elmbridgeu3a.org

You can find the “how to book” instructions” at How to Book for a Di's Days Out