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Notice: Ashdown House will still be welcoming visitors despite extensive conservation work being undertaken. Come and learn about the conservation of this unique building as well as the history of the house and the Craven family. On Wednesdays you can take a guided tour up the scaffolding and see the work in progress close up.( Over 18's only)Temporary displays replace the portrait gallery inside the house. We look forward to seeing you.

Unusual Dutch-style house on the Berkshire Downs

This extraordinary building with a dolls'-house appearance nestles in a beautiful valley on the Berkshire Downs, surrounded by woodland.

It was built by an Earl, William Craven, as a house fit for the queen he loved, Queen Elizabeth of Bohemia in 1662.

Access to the house is by guided tour only at 2.15, 3.15 and 4.15, for up to 25 people at a time. House is tenanted and access is limited to hall, staircase (100 steps ) and roof.

The grounds can be visited when the house is open and the woodland open all year round, Sunday to Thursday.

Conservation in action

Workman repairing masonry at Ightham Mote © NTPL/Ian Shaw

A major conservation project is ongoing. Between April and July on Wednesday afternoons you can join a tour up an outside scaffolding staircase (suitable for over 18s) to see the work. Places are limited to 12 per tour.

Read our blog

Nicola Cornick © Andrew Cornick

Volunteer Nicola Cornick has a blog about the history of Ashdown House. She'll also keep you updated on the conservation work going on at Ashdown.

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