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Vanbrugh 300: Sandy Nairne, Sir Charles Saumarez Smith and Mark Newman

Introduced by Sandy Nairne, Vanbrugh scholar Sir Charles Saumarez Smith discusses Vanbrugh’s career and links to Seaton Delaval Hall. Archaeologist Mark Newman shares how investigations have provided insight into Vanbrugh’s involvement in the hall.

  • Booking essential

Introduced by historian, curator and Deputy Chair of the National Trust, Sandy Nairne, former Chief Executive of the Royal Academy of Arts, Director of the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery, Sir Charles Saumarez Smith discusses Vanbrugh’s later career and his links to Seaton Delaval Hall, following the publication of his recent book, John Vanbrugh: The Drama of Architecture. National Trust Consultant Archaeologist Mark Newman shares how archaeological and historical research at Seaton Delaval Hall since the National Trust acquired it in 2009 has added to our understanding of the hall, the estate and Vanbrugh’s involvement in it.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

Ticket typeTicket category
All £15.00

The basics

Booking details

Call 0344 249 1895

Suitability

Recommended age 13+.

Meeting point

Please arrive via Visitor Welcome. The talk will take place in the Saloon.

What to bring and wear

The Saloon is unheated and gets very cold at night. Please wear warm clothing.

Accessibility

There is stepped access to the Saloon.

Upcoming events

February half term 

Embrace the Northumbrian weather this February half term! Pull on your warmest wellies and waterproofs and enjoy family fun mixing fresh air, outdoor adventure and indoor calm.

Event summary

on
18 Feb to 22 Feb 2026
at 10:00 to 17:00+ 4 other dates or times

Delaval Discoveries: Potted History Talk 

Join our expert guides daily for an introduction to the gay Delavals, the most notorious of Georgian partygoers and pranksters and discover the story behind Sir John Vanbrugh's 300 year old masterpiece.

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on
19 Feb to 1 Mar 2026
at 12:30 to 13:00+ 8 other dates or times

National Lottery Open Week 

As a thank you to National Lottery players for supporting our conservation work, we’re offering free entry during National Lottery Open Week! Bring your lottery ticket or scratch card and explore Seaton Delaval Hall for free.

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on
7 Mar to 14 Mar 2026
at 10:00 to 17:00+ 5 other dates or times

Vanbrugh 300 

In 2026 we’ll be celebrating Seaton Delaval Hall’s architect, Sir John Vanbrugh. Led by The Georgian Group, we’ll join five of his most significant creations for a year of events commemorating the man known as the ‘rockstar of the English Baroque’.

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on
25 Mar to 18 Oct 2026
at 10:00 to 17:00+ 149 other dates or times