WIMPOLE HALL

ARRINGTON, ROYSTON, CAMBRIDGESHIRE, SG8 0BW

FROM the outside, Wimpole Hall looks like a symmetrical, classical building, built to a single, planned design.

In fact, this grand house set in a 2,500acre country estate is the work of a combination of some of Britain’s greatest architects and artists.

The original 1650s house was built to a design by Sir Thomas Chicheley. James Gibbs added baroque touches; Sir James Thornhill, Britain’s finest fresco painter in the early 18th century, decorated the chapel.

Sir John Soane was responsible for one library and the Yellow Drawing Room, both rich in his trademark, carefully-lit, stripped-down style. The Lord Chancellor’s Bedroom (left) is also a splendidly lavish affair.

An education in British classicism.

OPENING TIMES AND TICKETS: Daily except Fridays, 11am- 5pm. Adults £15.90, children £9.05, National Trust members free (01223 206 000,

nationaltrust.org.uk).

WHERE TO EAT: The Stable Kitchen in the old stable block has a wellappointed cafe. For more substantial meals, head for the nearby Old Rectory Restaurant.

WHERE TO STAY: Hotel du Vin, Cambridge — a comfortable hotel and bistro, handy for the university’s colleges. Doubles from £189 (08447 364 253,

hotelduvin.com).

WHAT’S NEARBY? The colleges of Cambridge and the racing town of Newmarket.