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Splendid 18th-century English interiors in an idyllic country setting

In the 1750s at his family seat in Buckinghamshire, Sir Ralph Verney set out to create a country house of extraordinary grandeur that would dazzle his wealthy neighbours and outdo his political rivals. Thirty years on he was facing financial ruin.

Today the interiors that remain are among the most ambitious and lavish ever created in the 18th century.

Claydon has been occupied by the Verney family for more than 550 years; the place is a testament to their fascinating fluctuating fortunes, from their close involvement in the English Civil War to the family connection with Florence Nightingale.

50 Things To Do Before You're 11 And Three Quarters

What will you try at Claydon?

50 things to do before you're 11 ¾

There are so many things to make sure you've done before you're 11 ¾. Here at Claydon we've made a list of our favourite ideas for fun to get you started:

  1. Balance on a fallen tree
  2. Eat blackberries growing in the wild
  3. Make a grass trumpet
  4. Track wild animals
  5. Find a geocache

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Rain? What rain?

Visit us, come rain or shine © National Trust

Claydon is great for wet weather fun. Look around the house before visiting the courtyard shops and galleries. And there's always the tea-room or restaurant for some tasty treats.

We're family friendly

A family playing frisbee at Claydon, Buckingham © Arnhel de Serra
  • Children's trails and quizzes in the house
  • Try on historic costumes
  • Space to run and play
  • Parkland walks
  • Discover nature