Built in 1610, Ham House stands on the banks of the River Thames, then, according to the National Trust brochure, was only an hour's row away from London. As a luxuriously decorated villa, it has grand rooms and equally grand gardens.
The immaculately kept lawn was a statement to visiting guests and royalty in the 17th century, before the days of mechanic lawn mowers. Today, it is a perfect place to have a picnic when the sun is out.
The cherry garden, curiously named when there are no longer any cherry trees. The cone-shaped borders are carefully trimmed to complement the beds of lavender.
The magnificent Great Staircase, acting as a fanfare to the grand reception rooms above. The details are themselves works of art.
One of the many exquisite Chinese cabinets in Ham House. This one is situated in the Long Gallery, its length allows the owners to have some form of exercise, and the expanses of wall are lined with portraits showing off the family's connections and allegiances.
