All you need to know about the striking architectural gem, Kingston Lacy, in Dorset.
Where is Kingston Lacy?
Kingston Lacy is a country house and estate near Wimborne Minster, Dorset, England.
When was Kingston Lacy built?
Originally built in the 1660s by Ralph Bankes, the explorer William John Bankes inherited the house and estate in 1834.
Regarding the house his father had renovated to be an 'awkward' hybrid of styles, William John Bankes instructed the architect, Sir Charles Barry - who also designed the Houses of Parliament - to remodel it to resemble a Venetian palace during the 1830s.
Bankes turned the house into a work of art, filled with beautiful things in the style of the Venetian palazzi.
What to see and do at Kingston Lacy
As an inveterate adventurer, Bankes had travelled through much of Europe and south along the Nile, deep into Egypt and brought the treasures acquired during these expeditions to Kingston Lacy.
His legacy is an art collection that is the most impressive in the National Trust’s care and includes paintings by Rubens, Titian and Sebastiano.
Other highlights include:
- The 'Picture Room': Officially called 'The Spanish Room', the rooms feature paintings by Velazquez and Murillo. William John Bankes designed the 12 door panels that illustrate the months of the year.
- Masterpieces: Works of art by Titian, Rubens, Jan Brueghel the Younger and Sir Peter Lely in The Saloon.
- Painted ceiling: William John Bankes purchased the exquisite ceiling in the library, originally crafted for a palace in Bologna, in 1840.
- Bronze statues: Three large bronze figures take pride of place on the half-landing of the great marble staircase. Crafted by sculptor Marochetti, renowned for his work on the iconic Trafalgar Square lions, these sculptures are a tribute to the Bankes family heroes.
- Miniature paintings: Head to The Drawing Room to admire 50 enamel miniatures painted by Henry Bone (1755-1834). Henrietta Bankes (1871-1953) designed the striking Edwardian pink and gold colour scheme of the room.
There are also 32 acres of gardens to explore, featuring rosebeds, expansive lawns, a parterre with formal bedding, a Victorian fernery, a Japanese gardenm a sunk garden as well as a woodland, complete with woodland trail.
Useful Information
- House opening hours: 10.30–3 (winter 10.30–2.30).
- Café; shop; accessible toilets; wheelchair hire; dogs welcome in the parkland.
Looking for more inspirational days out?
If you're in the area, check out our guide to the best walks in Dorset, or explore Thomas Hardy's cottage.
We've also put together comprehensive guides and features about the National Trust, including a round up of the best top 10 National Trust properties, the National Trust best outdoor cinema locations and the best National Trust walks.
Do you have National Trust membership?
Become a member to enjoy savings on visits and contribute to preserving these iconic properties for future generations.
Credit: National Trust Images/Chris Lacey
