Credit Visit Isle of Wight
Some of the most exquisite and intriguing historic houses in England can be found scattered across South East England. These stunning properties showcase some of the most beautiful architecture of their times, have links to iconic characters that have shaped British history and often have grounds and gardens that will take your breath away.
There are so many esteemed historic houses throughout England and some amazing examples that the South East can lay claim to. Some of the most iconic from each county are featured here, but find many more and a stately home to visit near you using the map function at the bottom of this page.
Strawberry Hill House in Twickenham re-opened following a £9 million restoration and this fine example of Georgian Gothic architecture is matched by its unique collection of Renaissance painted glass. In south-east London, the Grade I listed Down House was the home of Charles Darwin, now under the ownership of English Heritage. In Greenwich you can visit The Queens House, the first classical building in the country, acknowledged as a masterpiece of 17th-century architecture.
Guildford House Gallery is a Grade I listed townhouse with many of its original features including a carved staircase and panelled rooms.
On the Isle of Wight, visit Queen Victoria's family home at Osborne House, marvel at the Victorian opulence and extravagant interiors and the stunning Indian décor of the Durbar Room.
Step back to the 15th Century in Southampton at Tudor House, the city's most important historic building or follow in the footsteps of acclaimed author Jane Austen at her house in Chawton where she wrote many of her novels. Discover the state rooms of Edwardian mansion of Stansted House, Rowlands Castle, or Palace House, New Forest, home of the Montagu family home since 1538.
Dorney Court near Windsor is a Tudor Manor House where visitors will find six centuries of artefacts collected over thirteen generations.
Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire was built in the late 1800s by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild; today it is home one of the most exceptional collections of French 18th Century decorative arts and English portraits in the world.
Near Milton Keynes, Bletchley Park is a place of exceptional historic importance, as it was home of the top secret code-breaking centre during WWII and birthplace of modern information technology.
The imposing baroque style of Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire is one of the most architecturally elaborate historic houses in England.
Stonor Park near Henley-on-Thames dates back to Medieval times and behind the red brick facade, lies a treasure trove of architecturally fascinating rooms.
Discover the beautiful inspiration retreat and summer home of William Morris at Kelmscott Manor in Lechlade, Oxfordshire. This grade 1 listed farmhouse was built in the 1600's. It is currently closed during 2021, for conservation and restoration work funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The beautiful Georgian house of Belmont, contains fabulous mementoes of the family's history and travels - fine paintings, furniture, Indian silverware and the finest and most extensive range of clocks in private hands in the country
The spectacular seaside palace of the Prince Regent (George IV) was transformed by John Nash into one of the most dazzling & exotic buildings in the British Isles, Royal Pavilion, Brighton.
Goodwood House and Estate has been the home of the Dukes of Richmond & Lennox for over 300 years, home of the world famous Festival of Speed, Glourious Goodwood and Goodwood Revival.
You can also stay in some beautiful historic houses in the South, including Charney Manor, Oxfordshire, parts of which date back to the 13th Century. Gravetye Manor House, Sussex, once owned by William Robinson one of the greatest gardeners of all time and Oakley Hall Hotel, Hampshire, which dates back to 1795 and was formerly owned by the Bramston Family who were close friends of Jane Austen.
If you love history and heritage, don't forget to enjoy exploring the different ways you can follow in the footsteps of Royalty throughout the South, on our royal connections page.
Whether you live locally or are on holiday in South East England, find historic houses near you by selecting the 'map view' button below.
Number of results: 55
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Historic House / Palace
Chichester
Goodwood House combines the glamour of a great English country house with the warmth of a family home. With an outstanding collection of art on display, the House is open from March to October for tours and luxury afternoon tea.
Historic House / Palace
London
The term ‘State Rooms’ is applied to those rooms that were designed and built as the public rooms of the Palace, in which monarchs receive, reward and entertain their subjects and visiting dignitaries.
Historic House / Palace
Petworth
Explore this majestic mansion and beautiful landscaped deer park.
Historic House / Palace
Twickenham
Visiting Strawberry Hill is a truly theatrical experience, with a unique collection of renaissance painted glass and magnificently restored interiors.
Historic Site
Winchester
Remains of Bishop of Winchester`s palace are mainly 12th and 14thC consisting of buildings around a courtyard and moat. Remains include the Great Hall and 3-storey tower.
Museum
Alton
Jane Austen’s House in Chawton, Hampshire is the picturesque country cottage where Jane Austen lived. It is the most treasured Austen site in the world. It was here that Jane’s genius flourished and where she wrote, revised and had published all her…
Castle / Fort
Rochester
This attractive, turreted castle is set in a picturesque village area that is backed by rolling, wooded hills. The castle is fronted by a water bastion jutting out into the River Medway.
Historic House / Palace
ABINGDON
This lovely family home built in circa 1660 was remodelled in the early 1700’s for the Blandy family. With English and French furniture in the elegant panelled rooms the entrance hall is dominated by its handsome cantilevered staircase.
Craft Centre
Lewes
A converted 19thC candle factory housing variety of different craft workshops. Visitors can see candle making, hand-engraving and visit other specialist shops.
Castle / Fort
Newport
Visit Carisbrooke Castle and enjoy over 800 years of history!
Garden
Stockbridge
A haven of peace above the tranquil beauty of the River Test. Grade II* Gardens with fine trees surround an enchanting and unique example of an 18th Century “Cottage Orne”.
Castle / Fort
Arundel
The towering stately home and fortified castle in the heart of Sussex by the Sea! Open April to October, Tuesdays to Sundays inclusive, Bank Holiday Mondays and August Mondays.
Historic House / Palace
Winchester
Medieval almshouses, church, ambulatory, Brethren's Hall and kitchen, Master's garden.
Historic House / Palace
Brighton
A delightful manor house with the interior of an Edwardian home containing ceramics, furniture, glass, clocks and silver. Servants' quarters and restored kitchen. Garden.
Historic House / Palace
Henley-on-Thames
House built between 12th and 18thC with a 13thC chapel. Has connections with Catholicism and exhibition of the work and life of Edmund Campion, furniture, tapestries and paintings.
Garden
Abingdon
Range of medieval domestic buildings remaining from Abingdon Abbey.
Garden
Haywards Heath
One of the great Gardens of the Sussex Weald with a collection of rare and beautiful plants from all over the world, including breathtaking spring colour in the walled garden, an old fashioned rose garden, summer borders and much more.
Historic House / Palace
Greenwich, London
An exquisite architectural gem housing a world-class art collection. This former Royal residence is a treasure trove of beautiful architectural features.
Historic House / Palace
Milton Keynes
Once Britain’s Best Kept Secret, today Bletchley Park is a heritage site and vibrant tourist attraction. Open daily, visitors can explore some of the iconic WW2 Codebreaking Huts and Blocks and marvel at the astonishing achievements of the…
Historic House / Palace
Southampton
Uncover over 800 years of history in the heart of Southampton’s Old Town. Tudor House and Garden gives visitors an insight in to the lives and times of its residents with informative displays and hands on interactive experiences.
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