Private tour in Cambridge Deborah M
up to 6 people
2 hours 30 minutes
Walking
1
Deborah M.
I am an art and architectural historian, originally from the National Gallery in London. I have now...
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Anglesey Abbey, just like the fictional Downton Abbey (aka Highclere castle) was not actually an abbey, but began its life as a 12th century priory in the hamlet of Angerhale in the Fens, hence the name Anglesey. Discover its long history, featuring a real life American heiress, Cara Rogers by the 20th century, whose name may have inspired Cora, Lady Grantham in the TV/Films of Downton Abbey. It was her legacy, inherited from her father, Vice President of Standard Oil, reputed to be one of the wealthiest men in the U.S. and rubbing shoulders with the Rockefellers and British Royalty, that would bankroll the grand creation of her son, Huttleston Broughton. A stone's throw from Cambridge, this is an experience that offers so much to lovers of history, gardens and art alike. Hear the full story, unlocking the connections back to the U.S., Lord Fairhaven's American upbringing and how he followed his vision, creating a haven in the Fens, a much loved part of our Cambridgeshire heritage today
Introduction to Anglesey Abbey and why it was chosen, re- inventing it as a luxurious home and gardens, fit for a Lord. Visit to the the principal gardens, appointed statuary, seasonal flower gardens. The restored and picturesque working mill by the river Lode is a delight of the village's past, where you can purchase flour and bread. The house has parts dating back to its occupancy as a priory as well as the living quarters of the family and art showpieces. Lord Fairhaven was a great collector, amassing an eclectic mix of artefacts and paintings, including clocks and fine tapestries. You will also see collected and commissioned works by artists of East Anglia, including Gainsborough and Constable, which feature as part of a summer exhibition till October 2024. This is on the ground floor only, whilst the upstairs is under conservation and due to reopen in spring 2025 There is plenty to enjoy, especially the servants quarters, a veritable time capsule !
Contact your local guide to know more!!
Arrive by car, taxi or bus from central Cambridge ( No. 11 leaves at 50 minutes to the hour every hour from drummer street bus station, 5 minutes from the market square, arriving in Lode at aproximately 20 minutes past the hour.
Cambridge, England, United Kingdom
Anglesey Abbey is located on the main B1102 road, 7 miles east of Cambridge, just before the village of Lode. Meet at the entrance to the reception building, just inside the grounds, and car park near the road and bus stop
Book with a 20% deposit!
Size:
up to 6 people
Duration:
2 hours 30 minutes
Transportation:
Walking
1
Book with a 20% deposit!
Size:
up to 6 people
Duration:
2 hours 30 minutes
Transportation:
Walking
1
You will receive an email shortly with your booking and payment information.