Celebrating 65 Years of International Friendship: A Weekend at Strawberry Hill

7th–8th June 2025

Strawberry Hill House is supporting the celebrations of the 65th anniversary of Richmond’s international partnerships with Fontainebleau and Konstanz with a special £10 standard admission ticket for the weekend of the 7th and 8th June.

Strawberry Hill House’s story begins in 1747, when Horace Walpole discovered and purchased ‘Chopp’d Straw Hall’, one of the last remaining sites on the banks of the Thames in fashionable Twickenham. He transformed what was then a couple of cottages into his vision of a ‘little Gothic castle’, complete with pinnacles, battlements, and a round tower creating the first ever Gothic Revival house in the world. This architectural style then spread worldwide, with Strawberry Hill as its birthplace.

Walpole was also a man of letters, documenting everything in his collection and often considered the Pepys of his time. It was here that Gothic Literature was born. His novel, The Castle of Otranto, was inspired by the house and became the first ever Gothic novel, paving the way for a genre that would go on to include Dracula, Frankenstein and Wuthering Heights.

As well as the special £10 entry for the weekend, we also have two exclusive events:

· A special Curator Tour led by our Creative Director, Silvia Davoli. This tour delves into the fascinating history, enchanting interiors, and captivating stories of the house’s past residents. In celebration of the re-affirmation of international partnerships, this special tour will be conducted in French.

· A special extra date for the Guided Landscape Tour of Strawberry Hill Garden and Pope’s Grotto. This tour explores the history of Strawberry Hill Garden including its role in the development of the naturalistic landscape, as well as a rare opportunity to visit Pope’s Grotto, only open to visitors on limited days following extensive restoration. The work has uncovered the original structure of the Grotto and evidence of water features referenced by Pope and 18th-century visitors.

To complete the experience, Roots and Berries is offering a free glass of fizz with every Afternoon Tea booked for the weekend. This is served in The Garden Café, overlooking the beautiful grounds of Strawberry Hill House.

BOOK £10 STANDARD ADMISSION NOW