Ham House

Ham House, originally built in 1610, underwent transformative changes under the ownership of William Murray, who was gifted the lease by King Charles I in 1626. Murray's lavish alterations in 1637-39 solidified his courtier status and friendship with the King. The English Civil War erupted in 1642, compelling Royalist Murray to fight for Charles I and leaving Ham House in his family's care.

The war's aftermath was harsh for Royalists; however, by cultivating ties with Cromwell, Murray's daughter Elizabeth retained Ham House throughout the interregnum. After Charles II's restoration in 1660, Elizabeth's opulent taste and status were evident as she hosted extravagant events. 1672, Elizabeth married the Duke of Lauderdale, further enhancing Ham House's grandeur with their shared love for power and luxury. Collecting treasures worldwide, they established Ham House as a prominent Stuart residence.

The house remained relatively unchanged after Elizabeth's death, serving her descendants for nearly three centuries. In 1948, Ham House came under the stewardship of the National Trust, preserving its 17th-century splendour. The surviving interiors showcase the remarkable journey of Ham House through the Civil War, political shifts, and changing dynasties, offering a rare glimpse into Stuart-era luxury and design.

Surrounding the house, you'll find meticulously restored 17th-century gardens that offer a harmonious blend of open and formal spaces. These gardens encompass a productive kitchen garden boasting a variety of heritage crops. Among the garden's delights is the "Wilderness," a maze-like area complete with charming summerhouses

and numerous idyllic spots perfect for a leisurely picnic.

Nestled within the historic kitchen garden, you'll discover the Orangery café, which serves delightful light lunches and afternoon teas. This café is housed in one of the earliest examples of an Orangery, although its design wasn't ideally suited for nurturing plants due to its small windows, which allowed only limited light to reach the orange and lemon trees.