I’ve explored many countries on my website, but I never really took the time to write about all my discoveries in the UK—the country I’ve called home for more than ten years. From Scotland to Wales to England, I’ve explored quite a bit, and I’ve decided it’s time to dedicate a series of articles to my adopted country. After an article on the waterfalls of Wales, we’re now heading to London to visit Strawberry Hill House, the extraordinary home of Horace Walpole.
Who was Horace Walpole?
To understand the architecture, you first need to understand the man behind it. Horace Walpole (1717–1797) was a British politician, writer, and avid collector. He was also the son of Sir Robert Walpole, often considered Britain’s first Prime Minister. In 1749, Horace began transforming a modest house in Twickenham into a striking neo-Gothic castle. This home would go on to become a landmark example of the Gothic Revival style in the UK. Visiting Strawberry Hill House is like stepping straight into that whimsical, neo-Gothic world…with some truly surprising interiors.
The Birth of Gothic Fiction
Horace Walpole is also known for writing The Castle of Otranto (1764). It is widely considered the very first Gothic novel in English literature. The book draws heavily on the atmosphere and aesthetic of Strawberry Hill itself. During your visit, you can even see the room that served as Walpole’s study, where he is believed to have written this book.
Twickenham?
Twickenham sits on the banks of the Thames, just a few kilometres from central London. Most people know it today for its national rugby stadium. In the 18th century, it was a sought-after residential area, popular with aristocrats and intellectuals. That’s why Walpole chose this peaceful spot, far from the hustle and bustle of the capital, to create his unique retreat.
Exploring the Exterior of Strawberry Hill House
Strawberry Hill House is a true manifesto of the neo-Gothic style. Its exterior is striking, not only for its white façade, but also for the small turrets and battlements that crown the roof. Altogether, it feels more like a whimsical fairytale castle than a traditional residence. The English-style garden adds to the charm, with its rolling lawns, groves, and winding paths.
I visited Strawberry Hill House in March. It was still cold but some trees, like the cherry blossoms, were already in bloom.
The Bold and Surprising Interiors of Strawberry Hill House
The interior of Strawberry Hill House reflects both Walpole’s personal taste and his fascination with medieval architecture. Walpole sourced many of the vaulted ceilings and antique stained-glass windows from medieval churches, and you’ll see them throughout the house. The most striking and most photographed room is the gallery. Craftsmen created its ceiling from papier-mâché, intricately decorating it to mimic the vaulted ceilings of medieval cathedrals. Papier-mâché (French for “chewed paper”) is a crafting material made from paper pieces mixed with glue or starch. Once the mixture dries, it becomes solid and lightweight, making it ideal for architectural details, like the ornate ceilings in Strawberry Hill House!
A Curious and Eclectic Collection
Walpole had a deep passion for art and history. He assembled an impressive collection of books, manuscripts, paintings, and curiosities at Strawberry Hill House. Although many of the original items were dispersed after his death, the house still displays period pieces and replicas.
Visiting Strawberry Hill House
Opening Hours
Strawberry Hill House is open to the public on selected days throughout the year. Check the official website for up-to-date opening times to ensure it’s open on the day you plan to visit.
Access and Transport
Train: The nearest station is Strawberry Hill Station, about a 10-minute walk from the house.Trains run from London Waterloo to the station.
Bus: Several local bus routes connect Twickenham with the surrounding areas.
Car: Parking can be limited on the surrounding streets.
Why Visit Strawberry Hill House?
SStrawberry Hill House looks like a small fairytale castle, complete with turrets, battlements, and pointed arch windows. Its whimsical exterior is just as fascinating as its richly decorated interior. Beyond its architecture, it stands as a key example of the British Gothic Revival style and tells the story of a man with an extraordinary imagination, Horace Walpole, who left a lasting mark on both literature and architecture.
More than just a historic house, Strawberry Hill is a window into the mind of Walace Walpole. Anyone interested in art or the eccentric charm of one of Britain’s most original homes will find it a unique experience.
An Unexpected Cultural Gem Near London
Located to the west of the capital, Strawberry Hill House makes for a perfect half-day trip from London. Tourists haven’t yet discovered it in large numbers, though Instagram might soon change that, but anyone interested in architecture, literature, or historic heritage should definitely pay it a visit.
