The short history associated with the Syon place lands before its appearance in documents has been seen as the result of a revival of interest in earlier days due to recurrence of violence which took place near the area, within a close distance. Ready to explore and visit the interiors? Let’s dive right in!
Syon House. An Overview
Syon House or just Syon is a Grade I listed Tudor manor house, located in Brentford, in the London Borough of Hounslow, England. It takes its name from Syon Abbey, a medieval monastery that once occupied the site. The house’s first stone was laid by King Henry V in the early 1400s. It remained a monastery of St. Augustine, with 60 women and 25 men. Along the way, Syon Abbey became one of the foremost political and cultural powerhouses in England.
Famous Historical Figures in Syon House
After dissolving the monastery, Syon House was owned and visited by various personas. Take a look.
- The Duke of Somerset leased the house for a period of time in the 16th century.
- Cetheryn Howard, Queen of England, was imprisoned in Syon House until 1542.
- Lady Jane Grey lived here in 1553 after the death of Henry VIII until Elizabeth I became queen.
- Charles and Elisabeth Seymour resided in Syon after the telescope was invented by Thomas Harriot who also spent some of his days during his Galileo research.
- Duke of Northumberland, Hugh Percy, redesigned the house in the 18th century.
- Finally, Syon House was opened to the public in 1951 with the Percy family still living there.
The Great Conservatory, Syon House
The house is particularly noted for its Great Conservatory, designed by Charles Fowler on a Palladian model. The house has been used as a setting for films including The Nutcracker and The Four Realms, Downtown Abbey, The Avengers or Wives and Daughters.
The Dining Room & the Library at Syon House
The dining room is decorated with murals reflecting the bygone life of the house, Henry Somerset. Imagine the table set with gold plate and silverware, which was used by Queen Elizabeth I when she visited the house. Splendid, isn’t it? The dining room ceiling is painted with beautiful frescoes and gilded plaster motifs you can adore hours long.
The Syon House library is a gem you can’t miss! It is one of the oldest libraries in the UK, and it’s absolute living history thanks to its ornamental interiors and beautiful engravings. The room has been continuously added to and now contains thousands of volumes, including works on history and topography as well as law, theology and medicine. The library is also home to important pieces of furniture.
Syon Park: Location and Sights
Syon Park is located in Brentford just over the river from Kew Gardens and very close to Richmond Park. It has its own entrance gate off Park Road, but there is no parking directly outside due to road restrictions, so please use public transport. The park with its beautiful Tudor home set in its own landscaped grounds is an important part of English history. The house is surrounded by ornamental gardens and woodland walks, making it a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
A Historic House Open to the Public
Syon House is open to the public for guided tours, providing an opportunity to see this beautiful country house. It is also possible to have your wedding at Syon House, with beautiful gardens and a grand ballroom available for hire. The gardens and the Conservatory are open all year round on Wednesdays to Sundays from 10am-4.30pm, although there are also special events held throughout the year including outdoor cinema screenings and concerts.
Tickets
If you’re planning to visit Syon House, the Gardens and the Conservatory, here are the current entrance fees:
- Adults: £13,50;
- Children: £6.50;
- Four-persons families: £31;
- Season tickets are available too if you want to visit the gardens several times a year:
- Group bookings are possible upon prior notice.
Other Attractions and Activities Around Syon
If you’re not a history buff, and you’re done with visiting all the chambers in Syon House, we have you covered! Perhaps one of these attractions might be of your interest:
- Go to Westfield Shopping Center if you’re keen on spending some money. Shop until you drop and then eat at the food courts or at one of the recommended restaurants below (next section).
- If you’re travelling to London with your children, and you’re looking for things to do near Syon House, check Snakes and Ladders indoor adventure playground. This hot spot is filled with the best activities for your children.
- If you’re into fisihing, we recommend Syon Park Trout Fishery. It’s just around the corner, and you can enjoy a trout or two!
As far as accommodation is concerned, you can enjoy the Hilton London Syon Park Hotel. It will never disappoint you in terms of facilities, so don’t hesitate to book it as soon as possible. Holiday Inn Brentford or Travel Lodge are slightly cheaper, but equally decent.
Best Restaurants Around Syon House
If You’re looking for some great eateries around Syon House, here are our favorite picks!
- Indian Villa (Asia cuisine);
- Syon Lounge (sushi, shrimps and salads);
- Coach and Horses (a pub);
- The Courtyard Restaurant Syon Park (dailu lunches at the Conservatory);
- Siracusa (Italian cuisine).
Syon House: Final Thoughts
Overall, Syon House is a must-see attraction in London and is well worth the price of admission. If you are interested in history or architecture, then this is definitely the place for you. Check our final points before visiting Syon Park:
- You will find a gift shop on the premises of Syon house, so don’t worry if you have no presents planned to take back home.
- Guided tours combined with catering options are available.
- Various educational programs on art, sculpture and archeology are accessible all year round.
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