Vanbrugh 300
Welcome to Vanbrugh 300, a year-long celebration of Sir John Vanbrugh, architect of Seaton Delaval Hall and England’s finest Baroque architect and dramatist, presented by The Georgian Group with support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Vanbrugh died on 26 March 1726 and on his tercentenary, this festival will explore how he became the most prominent architect of his time, through events and activities at six of his major country houses: Seaton Delaval Hall, Castle Howard, Blenheim Palace, Grimsthorpe, Kimbolton Castle and Stowe House.
Vanbrugh 300 takes place at Seaton Delaval Hall from 25 March to 18 October.
About Sir John Vanbrugh
(1664–1726)
Sir John Vanbrugh was a playwright turned architect whose bold vision transformed English architecture, bringing drama and grandeur to his buildings and landscapes and he designed houses that were as theatrical as his plays – spaces to impress and inspire. His work remains a celebration of ambition and artistry, inviting us to step into a world where history and design meet.
Vanbrugh and Seaton Delaval Hall
Seaton Delaval Hall is Sir John Vanbrugh’s final masterpiece – a bold statement of English Baroque in the Northumberland landscape. Built for Admiral George Delaval from 1718-28, its dramatic symmetry and towering columns reflect Vanbrugh’s theatrical flair. It is intimate yet powerful, combining elegance with strength. Vanbrugh died before completion, but his vision endures. Today, the Hall stands as a celebration of imagination and ambition – a place where architecture becomes art and history comes vividly to life.
Events
Discover what's on at Seaton Delaval Hall in 2026 as part of Vanbrugh 300.
Exhibition, 25 March - 18 October. Gilt Parlour, Entrance Hall. Free with admission.
Discover more about the life, work and influence of Sir John Vanbrugh as well as his connections to his final major work, Seaton Delaval Hall, in this exhibition especially curated for Vanbrugh 300. In addition, get close to the images of the 300 people captured by photographer Richard Eyers for the Cast of Players projections.
Vanbrugh 300 and The Georgian Group
Find out more about events taking place elsewhere as part of Vanbrugh 300 and learn more about the work of The Georgian Group here.
You might also be interested in
The history of Seaton Delaval Hall
Learn the story of this baroque Northumberland manor house and the individuals who shaped it, including architect Sir John Vanbrugh and the notorious 18th-century Delaval family.
The North East Emerging Artist Award
Established in 2021, the award is inspired by Seaton Delaval Hall’s long-standing tradition of supporting the arts and encouraging emerging talent. It is open to artists from all artforms who are in or from the North East and aims is to showcase site-specific contemporary art in a historic context.
Things to do inside Seaton Delaval Hall
Uncover centuries of history and the story of the flamboyant and theatrical 'gay Delavals' in architect Sir John Vanbrugh's stunning buildings at Seaton Delaval Hall. Discover the dramatic scars of the fierce fires that nearly condemned it to ruin 200 years ago and see how the creativity and mischief has returned to this country house once more.
