HINTON AMPNER, ALRESFORD, HAMPSHIRE SO24 0LA & ROTHERFIELD PARK, EAST TISTED, ALTON, HAMPSHIRE GU34 3QE

Hinton Ampner was reconstructed after a devastating fire in 1961 by its connoisseur owner, Ralph Dutton. He proceeded to reassemble an impressive collection, which included Robert Adam mirrors and doorcases, fine Regency furniture, and the National Trust’s best assemblage of hardstones, as well as Sevres and other porcelain, and a picture collection particularly strongin works of the Baroque period. Dutton also created a stunning setting for his revived house, and the garden stands as one of the finest of the mid-twentieth century alongside Sissinghurst and Hidcote. James Rothwell, curator, will kindly lead members on this visit.

In 1808 the estate at Rotherfield Park was bought by James Scott, whose family had made a fortune as brickmakers, builders and developers in London. The architect J.T. Parkinson (1782-1855) transformed the house between 1815 and 1821 into a picturesque vision of historic England, within a landscape park. Re-modelling in the same spirit over the next seventy years included the re-building of the adjacent village. The house contains decorations by Crace of the mid-nineteenth century, as well as furniture and paintings from the family's earlier London houses. In 2010 the leading landscape architect Kim Wilkie created new plans to enhance the park. We will enjoy a private visit thanks to the generosity of Sir James and Lady Scott.

Cost: £60                                           

Limit: 20 members

Places still available. Please contact the Events Secretary for details.