Grimsthorpe Castle: A Blend of Architectural Marvels and Royal Heritage
Grimsthorpe is that rare bird; one of the finest stately homes in the country, but still an unspoilt family home. The stronghold of the mighty Willoughby d’Eresbys since the early sixteenth century, the house has a mediaeval rear, a baroque centre and Palladian pavilions. It has a castle-like playfulness, which hides its more serious character - that of a ducal palace, for the family were once the Dukes of Ancaster. This happy riot of architectural styles and complex histories sits in the middle of one of ‘Capability’ Brown’s celebrated landscapes, as well as a mediaeval deer park, Tudor oak park and the site of the ancient Vaudey Abbey, which was suppressed at the Dissolution and demolished to build the tudor stronghold of Charles Brandon, the 1st Duke of Suffolk.
On going inside the castle, the hall is one of Sir John Vanbrugh's masterpieces - a vast theatrical and mysterious space, which forms the heart of the house. Monumental stone screens add more drama as the approach to a warren of superb interiors. At one end are the state rooms - sparkling with family treasures and gilded decoration. The state dining room contains the throne used by George IV for his coronation banquet as well as Queen Victoria’s footstool from the house of Lords. Another footstool was used by George III.
Further into the house, the visitor will find two more thrones, which were used by Prince Albert and King Edward VII. This royal hoard of furniture is thanks to the family’s part holding the office of Lord Great Chamberlain. Returning back through Vanbrugh’s hall and through the other screen, we find a chinoiserie room of staggering richness, alongside one of the purest Palladian rooms I have ever seen - the family chapel. These two interiors could not be more different; one playful, exotic and whimsical, the other sober, sepulchral and serene. In fact, the interior of Grimsthorpe is surprisingly varied, yet delightfully complimentary in its elements. The current owner, the 28th Baroness Willoughby de Eresby, was one of Queen Elizabeth's coronation maids of honour, and is a granddaughter of Nancy Astor - another fascinating mix in the wonderful story of Grimsthorpe.
