The newly restored Boston Manor House in Brentford opens to the public on Friday 7 July at 12pm, ahead of a weekend of exciting free events for the family.
Published: Friday, 7th July 2023
The House, opening six days a week from Tuesday to Sunday, 12-5pm, is run by Hounslow Council Historic Houses Team with the support of local volunteers. The first weekend of the House is packed with exciting programmes, guided tours and sessions for parents and toddlers. There will be more community programmes and public events coming soon as the House gradually ramps up its operation.
The House will be recruiting more than 200 volunteers by the end of December 2023 and will continue to provide work placements, internships, and apprenticeship opportunities for young people under 25.
Through support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Mayor of London’s Good Growth Fund, Historic England and other funders, this iconic Grade I listed building was successfully removed from Historic England’s ‘Heritage at Risk Register’ in 2022 following a £6m restoration.
From left to right: Cllr Shivraj Grewal, Hounslow Cabinet Member for Communities, Equalities and Culture, Rosi Prescott DL FRSA, Deputy Lieutenant of Greater London, Cllr Afzaal Kiani, Mayor of Hounslow, Simon Goggin, Cooks & Partners, and David Stockdale, Head of Culture, Hounslow Council.
Councillor Shivraj Grewal, Cabinet Member for Communities, Equalities and Culture, said:
''The opening of Boston Manor House to the public is a statement of the borough's relentless commitment to preserving Hounslow's heritage and promoting our cultural identity. The House will provide residents of all ages an exciting place to learn, discover and socialise, it will become a vital community asset in itself, where everyone is welcome."
Deputy Lieutenant of Greater London, Rosi Prescott DL FRSA said:
“Congratulations to Hounslow for the successful opening of Boston Manor House to the public and I am excited about meeting new visitors from across the borough. They are bound to be as excited as I am about the restoration and history associated with the House. It’s an absolute gem and definitely a great place to visit and enjoy.”
With the support of professional craftsman and architects, each room has been restored to the period evident in its decoration – plaster work, timber, wallpaper and textiles. Visitors will be able to immerse themselves in the history of the Jacobean House that spans from the 17th century through to the 21st century and the stories of those who have lived in and used the building. There is also a changing programme of special exhibitions, the first of which is an exhibition about the recent restoration work.
In addition to conservation, the House has brought in facilities that meet the needs of the community. A purpose-built lift has been installed to enhance accessibility. There is also a café serving food and drinks. The team at Boston Manor House are now working on promotion of its learning offer for local school children and the marketing of the House out-of-hours as an occasion venue for wedding ceremonies and special events. It’s also possible to hire meeting rooms by local community groups, charities and companies in opening hours.
Stepping outside, the three-storey property is set amongst 34-acre of grounds, overlooking a beautiful lake along with ancient cedar trees located in between the House and Boston Manor Park. Families and friends can access these outdoor spaces, enjoying the beautiful outlook of the House and the tranquillity of the environment.
Members of the public who plan to visit the House please note that there is limited parking available in Boston Manor car park adjacent to the Park. It is also a short walk from Boston Manor underground station.
For details of Boston Manor House, please check the website or follow the Facebook social media channel: @BostonManorHouse.
