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A recently restored 18th-century mausoleum, designed by James Wyatt, and set in peaceful woodland

Absorb the atmosphere at the wonderfully restored Darnley Mausoleum, designed by James Wyatt and so memorably featured in the BBC's Restoration programme. Then follow in the footsteps of the Darnley family while walking through the peaceful woodland, once part of their extensive estate and soon to be acquired by the National Trust.

Please note that the mausoleum is not currently open to the public. We will be using this website to let you know about the transfer of the mausoleum and woodland to our care, so please keep checking back for updates.

The history of the mausoleum

Looking from above, the condition and damage of the Darnley Mausoleum © Alison Naylor (CAMS)

The history of the Darnley Mausoleum, an unusual monument, is surprising. Built as an icon but never used, the mausoleum was always designed to be a symbol of power and wealth.

The decline of the Darnley Mausoleum

A view of the damaged interior of the Darnley Mausoleum at Cobham Wood in Kent © Alison Naylor (CAMS)

The terrible damage to the interior

© Alison Naylor (CAMS)

From decline to restoration, the journey of the mausoleum through history has not been easy. Thankfully it's now restored to its former glory, but the story could have had a very different ending.