Beyond the Gatehouse, The Eccentric Lives of England's Aristocracy
A lighthearted, witty but factual biographical account of the eccentric lifestyles of the builders and residents of some of England's best-known country houses, including Welbeck Abbey. Extraordinary buildings require extraordinary people, and over the centuries our historic houses have produced more than their fair share of oddballs. Insulated from the outside world by vast wealth, rolling acres, and the social status that a title implies, aristocrats have always been able to amuse themselves – and now us – by pursuing their idiosyncratic interests and manias to the point of eccentricity.
David Long lifts the lid on all that's delightfully wacky about our glorious heritage homes and their unusual occupants.
- Paperback
- 158 pages
Our exhibition Tunnel Vision currently on show at The Harley Gallery, reveals the life and work of the famously private 5th Duke of Portland who features in this book. Exhibits include architectural models for some of his great building projects, his iconic double-letterbox bedroom door, and his only true likeness in the form of his death mask.
Learn more about the 5th Duke's political allegiances in our article by Dr Fiona Clapperton and his bachelor lifestyle in the article by Dr Lauren Batt.
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