About this Event
Basildon Park
Heritage Open Day: From its origins connected to the East India Company, to an army base in WWII, and onto a glamourous home used to entertain in the 1950s, the history of Basildon Park is a rich and interesting one. Sitting elegantly in 162 hectares (400 acres) of historic parkland and gardens, this 18th-century house was purchased by Lord and Lady Iliffe in the 1950s, when it was de-requisitioned after the Second World War. With extraordinary vision, the Iliffes brought Basildon Park back to life, acquiring a collection of fine furnishings and carefully selected Old Masters.
The wooded parkland offers glorious seasonal colour, with spring bluebells, summer buttercups and autumn leaves, while the landscape has been carefully restored to offer wonderful views, peaceful trails and picnic places, with areas for children to run and play. Winter walks are a must.