Polesden Lacey
Polesden Lacey is one of Surrey’s most elegant country estates, famed for its Edwardian glamour and the lavish hospitality of its owner, Margaret Greville. The house became a social magnet for royalty and high society; in 1923 it even hosted the honeymoon of the future King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. One of the most interesting facts is Greville’s extraordinary jewellery collection, once described as among the finest in Britain, parts of which were later inherited by the Queen Mother. Inside, the rooms are beautifully preserved in their early‑20th‑century splendour. The Gold Room, with its mirrored walls and gilded decoration, captures the height of Edwardian luxury. The dining room and drawing room reveal Greville’s taste for entertaining, filled with fine furniture, portraits and objets d’art. The servants’ areas offer a contrasting glimpse into the working life of the estate, with kitchens and pantries showing how grand house parties were run behind the scenes. The gardens are another highlight: sweeping lawns, formal terraces, a walled rose garden and woodland walks that frame views across the North Downs. The estate’s peaceful valley setting adds to its charm.
Great Bookham United Kingdom
Polesden Lacey is a grand Edwardian country house set within a sweeping 1,400-acre estate on the slopes of the Surrey Hills, near Dorking. The official address is Great Bookham, near Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6BD. Famous as the former weekend retreat of the wealthy socialite Margaret Greville, this National Trust property is renowned for its extravagant interiors, extensive art collection, and stunning rose gardens overlooking the countryside. The surrounding area in Surrey is rich with historic estates, gardens, and cultural landmarks. Just a short drive away lies Hatchlands Park, a classic Georgian country house surrounded by peaceful parkland, and the quiet grounds of Clandon Park. Nearby in Dorking, visitors can tour the famous Denbies Wine Estate, or explore the iconic viewpoints along Box Hill. For museum and historic palace enthusiasts, a short journey takes you to Guildford Castle and Guildford Museum in the heart of Guildford, or the famous Brooklands Museum in Weybridge, which celebrates British aviation and motoring heritage. Art lovers can spend an afternoon at the nearby Watts Gallery – Artists' Village in Compton, while those looking for magnificent royal architecture can drive slightly further to visit the grand halls and maze of Hampton Court Palace.