Oxfordshire, an English county, Known for its beautiful historic estates reflective of hundreds of years of architecture and aristocracy. These manors are not only a window into history, but also symbols of the power and wealth once held by their inhabitants. The following are some of the best historic estates in Oxfordshire, the very definition of luxury and exclusivity for those with a wallet that can afford buying them. Here are five historic Oxfordshire estates only the rich can afford to buy.
5 Historic Oxfordshire Estates Only the Rich Can Afford To Buy
Blenheim Palace
UNESCO World Heritage Site Blenheim Palace is one of England’s most extraordinary stately homes. Queen Anne gave it to the 1st Duke of Marlborough, John Churchill. It is an architectural marvel designed by Sir John Vanbrugh in the early 1700s. The palace is famous for its beautiful baroque architecture and is also Winston Churchill’s birthplace. The public is able to view its extravagant staterooms, which are filled with priceless artwork and furniture. At the same time, visitors can also wander through the vast grounds designed by Capability Brown. The scale and grandeur of Blenheim Palace make it a quintessential symbol of wealth.
Ashdown House
Another hidden gem in the rolling Oxfordshire countryside is Ashdown House. The Throckmortons built this distinctively Jacobean-classical transition mansion in the 17th century. They have couple of paintings and antiques across the house; each different item is part of their heritage. The nearby gardens feature peaceful retreats with a formal style that complements the estate’s historical significance.
Buscot Park
Another late 18th-century neo-classical Estate with glorious views of the River Thames is Buscot Park. The house is famous for its diverse art collection, including the Faringdon Collection of Old Masters and Pre-Raphaelite paintings. The lovely gardens contain a gorgeous 20th-century water garden that adds value to the estate. Buscot Park exemplifies how art and nature can converge to create an extraordinary living space.
Mapledurham House
Some parts of Mapledurham House, whose history dates back to the Domesday Book, represent a fusion of past and present. This mansion house was largely built in the late 16th century amid verdant meadows next to the River Thames. With such a rich history comes beautiful grounds that lure you onto them for unwinding and exploring.
Kingston Bagpuize House
With lavishly decorated interiors, Kingston Bagpuize House rises to greet us with a stunning cantilevered staircase built in the 1660s. This estate, set among seasonal gardens, allows you to step inside an aristocratic way of life. It is a favourite site for those wanting a taste of Oxfordshire heritage with the combination of historical architecture and landscaped gardens.
Historic Country Houses Outside of Oxfordshire
Aside from Oxfordshire, there are many other storied country houses to be found in England’s broader domestic landscape. Each offers its own stylistic chapter in the story of the nation’s properties. Some of these estates are particularly well-known:
- Levens Hall, Cumbria
- Description: An Elizabethan house dating back to the 13th century, famous for its topiary gardens.
- Highlights: Features a stunning interior and gardens restored by the National Trust.
- Hardwick Hall, Derbyshire
- Description: A prominent Elizabethan house built by Bess of Hardwick in the 1500s.
- Highlights: Known for its expansive windows and impressive collection of Egyptian artifacts. The grounds include historical features like Iron Age forts and a Japanese garden.
- Burghley House, Lincolnshire
- Description: Often referred to as “England’s greatest Elizabethan house,” built between 1555 and 1587.
- Highlights: Features extensive gardens designed by Capability Brown and lavish interiors with historical portraits.
- Highclere Castle, West Berkshire
- Description: The filming location for Downton Abbey, this castle is a prime example of Victorian architecture.
- Highlights: Richly decorated interiors and beautiful grounds that attract many visitors.
- Audley End House, Essex
- Description: A grand mansion reflecting Victorian life, with extensive gardens and service areas open to exploration.
- Highlights: Offers insights into both the lives of the aristocracy and their servants[5].
- Petworth House, West Sussex
- Description: A historic house renowned for its impressive art collection and beautiful parkland.
- Highlights: Managed by the National Trust, it showcases exquisite architecture and landscaped gardens.
Not only do these country houses show the glory days of England, but they also educate visitors on how the previous occupants lived. All of these locations were intriguing in their own right, with their own stories to tell, and thus deserving of a visit from history buffs or the passing tourist.
Final Thoughts on Historic Oxfordshire Estates
These aristocratic estates represent the heights of design oblivious to normal existence and hundreds of years of lifestyle for England aristocracy. They recall an era when the standard of wealth was measured in homes full of art and gardens sculpted to precision. While most of us will never live anywhere so extravagant, for those lucky enough to get up close and personal, these estates are a rare glimpse into a lost decadence.
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Sources:
- thisengland.co.uk/england-historic-homes-castles
- visitheritage.co.uk/things-to-do/heritage-houses
- discoverbritain.com/heritage/stately-homes/britains-best-stately-homes
