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.
This year‑long festival honours Vanbrugh’s life, legacy, and theatrical architectural vision. Vanbrugh 300 is presented by The Georgian Group, with support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Times
Prices
| Ticket type | Ticket 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
Festival of Blossom
Fall in love with blossom at Seaton Delaval Hall and across the North East this spring. Pick up a blossom map, take part in creative activities, or simply pause and enjoy the uplifting impact of the season.
Earth Compass
A selection of works taken from the award-winning British Pavilion exhibition of the Venice Architecture Biennale 2025, GBR - Geology of Britannic Repair.
Festival of Blossom: The Secret Bats of Seaton Delaval Hall
Discover the hidden world of bats through a thoughtful installation by artist Amy Dover, inviting you to look at the connections between wildlife, seasonal change and the landscapes around us.
Vanbrugh 300
This year we're celebrating Seaton Delaval Hall’s architect, Sir John Vanbrugh. Led by The Georgian Group, we’re joining five of his most significant creations for events commemorating the man known as the ‘rockstar of the English Baroque’.