Just a stone’s throw from the Thames in leafy Twickenham, Strawberry Hill House is the perfect place to enjoy the best of summer. From the cool shade of Walpole’s 18th-century Gothic Revival castle to the sunny, Grade II listed gardens, grab a picnic blanket and settle in for a summer filled with history, music, theatre, and fun.
Summer kicks off on Thursday 19 June with our first Summer Late, featuring live music from Apollo’s Cabinet. Start your evening with a relaxed, self-guided tour of the house, then head outside for live music and Pimm’s. Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxed evening with friends while Apollo’s Cabinet brings to life the songs of Kitty Clive, a good friend of Horace Walpole. Want to make it extra special? Pre-order a Roots & Berries picnic hamper.
Can’t make it on the 19 June? Join us on Thursday 17 July or Thursday 21 August – each Summer Late has a different live music act.
On Saturday 5 July, 6pm-8pm, get ready for music, costume changes, and a whole lot of mistaken identity when Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing comes to Strawberry Hill. Performed by the internationally renowned HandleBards, this quick-witted, high-energy version of the classic rom-com will have you laughing and cheering (and maybe a little bit of chaos, too!).
Whatever takes your fancy on the long summer evenings, Strawberry Hill House will have something for everyone, from live music and after hours tours of the house to Shakespearean verse, there is something for everybody.
Come rain or shine, each event will go ahead no matter what the weather, so please come prepared with rain or sun protection. Guests are also welcome to bring picnic blankets and deck chairs.
Starting this May half-term and running all summer, we’ve got two Faery Trails for the kids, one in the house and one in the garden.
First, hunt for the fairy doors & houses hidden around the gardens. Creep around the base of trees and explore our secluded historic gardens. Make discoveries twisted in gnarled old oak, or nestled under bushes. All designed and carved by a very talented pixie. Pick up your Faery Trail Guide for £2 in the café and return once you’ve completed your adventure return to pick up your fairy treat.
Next come inside to spot faeries in the magical rooms of Strawberry Hill House. Entrance to the house is free for under-5s and £7.25 for kids aged 6-16. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Dress up in your faery or wizard gear, and don’t forget to snap a magical #FaerieSelfie to share with the world!