Kenwood House

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  • Address
    Hampstead Lane, Hampstead, NW3 7JR
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  • Phone
    8348 1286
  • Website
  • Transport
    underground rail: Archway, Golders Green, then bus 210

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Lonely Planet review

This magnificent neoclassical mansion stands in a glorious sweep of landscaped gardens leading down to a picturesque lake. The house was remodelled by Robert Adam in the 18th century; his Great Stairs and the library are especially fine. Today it contains paintings by the likes of Gainsborough, Reynolds, Turner, Hals, Vermeer and Van Dyck.

Kenwood was rescued from the clutches of developers by Lord Iveagh Guinness, who donated it and the wonderful collection of art it contains to the nation in 1927.

The Suffolk Collection has limited opening hours and occupies the 1st floor. It includes Jacobean portraits by William Larkin and royal Stuart portraits by Van Dyck and Lely. The subjects were, pardon the pun, no oil paintings.

The Brew House Cafe has excellent grub, from light snacks to full meals, and plenty of room on the lovely garden terrace.