Ham House, 17th-century mansion in Richmond upon Thames, England
Ham House is a 17th-century mansion in Richmond upon Thames with a symmetrical stone and brick structure rising several stories. The interior rooms are filled with period furnishings and artworks, and formal gardens with hedges and pathways slope down toward the River Thames nearby.
The house was founded in the early 17th century and underwent major expansion after the monarchy's restoration period. The Murray family oversaw significant building work that transformed it into one of the grandest residences of its time.
The house reflects how wealthy English families once furnished their homes with fine paintings, textiles, and carefully chosen pieces that showed their status. Walking through the rooms, you can see how people arranged and used these objects in their daily life.
Plan to spend a few hours exploring the rooms and walking through the gardens at your own pace. Some areas are on ground level while others require climbing stairs, so wear comfortable shoes for navigating the various levels.
The garden features a restored maze from the house's original period, showing how residents designed outdoor spaces for leisure and exploration. Several garden pavilions also remain, revealing the role these retreat structures played in daily outdoor life.
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