Danson House, located in the London borough of Bexley, was built by sugar merchant and British East India Company vice-chairman, Sir John Boyd, for his young wife, Catherine Chapone in 1766.
The House was designed by the man behind the Bank of England, architect Sir Robert Taylor, and was meant to be an idyllic retreat from central London. Epitomizing 18th century luxury and elegance, Danson House is home to art and sculpture from Boyd’s global travel adventures.
Noteworthy features include an impressive library, a gorgeous dining room with original wall paintings, an oval staircase, and an octagonal salon. The House was rescued from the brink after falling into disrepair during the twentieth century. A decade-long restoration project was initiated in 1995 by English Heritage, and by 2005 the Danson House was welcoming its first visitors in more than three decades.
Danson House features a tea room and shop, period room displays, exhibitions, and stimulating audiovisual presentations. It is also available as a wedding venue, should you be looking for a London place in which to say "I do." This beautiful Georgian villa overlooks the peaceful 180 acre gardens of Danson Park. Danson Park is listed on the English Heritage register of historic parks and gardens, and is maintained as a public park by the Bexley Council. This is definitely worth a look if you're in the London area.
Danson House location and hours
Danson House
Danson Park
Bexleyheath
London
DA6 8HL
Danson House can be reached by car, rail, or bus, and it welcomes visitors Sunday to Thursday from 10am to 5pm, April through October. Admission is £7 for adults; children under 16 are admitted free.
Photo by aldisley on flickr
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