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Heritage Open Days: Mary ‘Molly’ Lepell, Lady Hervey (1700-68)

Learn about ‘Molly’s’ life on the Estate at Ickworth, including her life as a maid of honour to Queen Caroline.

  • Booking advisable
  • Free event

An 18th-century court celebrity, Mary ‘Molly’ Lepell, Lady Hervey, once lived on the Estate at Ickworth. Learn more about her life as a maid of honour to Queen Caroline, her network of intellectual ladies and marriage to John, Lord Hervey, through her library, which still resides at Ickworth today. This talk will be led by Emily Deal, a doctoral researcher in collaboration with the National Trust and Historic Royal Palaces.

Times

The basics

Suitability

Although aimed for adults, children are welcome.

Meeting point

Head into the West Wing, where you will be guided upstairs to the Gallery. Doors open at 10:30 for a 11:00 start.

What to bring and wear

This is an indoor talk, dressing for the weather is likely to be most appropriate due to the historical nature of the building.

Accessibility

There is a lift to the 2nd floor Gallery. Accessible toilets are in the basement. The Gallery is a large room, which can echo a little, you are welcome to sit close to the speaker if you rely on lip reading, we will provide PowerPoint live subtitles reliant on internet speed. People are welcome to stand at the back if they prefer.

Other

Although the talk is free, donations are welcome. There will also be a table of team made crafts available for a small donation.

Upcoming events

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8 Jul to 2 Nov 2025
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10:45 to 11:30
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Ickworth on the World Stage 

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8 Jul to 2 Nov 2025
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