Marble Hill House

Marble Hill, an 18th-century villa on the River Thames in Twickenham, London, served as a retreat for Henrietta Howard, King George II’s mistress during his Prince of Wales days. Influenced by Palladian architecture, the villa and gardens were meticulously designed.

Henrietta Howard’s connection with George enabled her to acquire funds for the property’s purchase. Built in Palladian style, Marble Hill offered an escape from court life.

Ownership changed over the years, but a threat emerged in the late 19th century

when the Cunard family acquired it. Concerned residents rallied to preserve the estate’s role in the iconic Richmond Hill view, raising public funds.

In 1986, English Heritage took stewardship of Marble Hill, initiating restoration efforts. The Marble Hill Revived project completed in 2022, restoring the 18th-century landscape, preserving interiors, upgrading amenities, and enhancing the visitor experience.

Today, Marble Hill showcases Georgian architectural grandeur, offering insight into the past. The villa and reconstructed gardens depict the opulent 18th-century lifestyle and the cultural importance of this serene Thames-side sanctuary.