Kingston Lacy: Discover Dorset’s Unexpected Italian Mansion

Considering a trip away somewhere in the UK? Looking to experience culture and the countryside? How about a Dorset weekend? Breaks like these are unparalleled for relaxation, historical entertainment, and rural adventure options, but there’s one thing you should make sure you don’t miss out on: Kingston Lacy.

A Stunning Interior

Kingston Lacy is a beautiful country mansion in the rolling green hills of Dorset, with countless options to fill a day. Offering you something a bit different to your average day away, Kingston Lacy dates back to 1683, when the local family, the Ralphs, moved in and continued to live there for the next 300 years.

The family’s history is richly entertaining, and their art collection is unsurpassed in the area. A tour of the house will give you access to renowned works by artists as prestigious as Rubens and Van Dyck. The famous Egypt exhibit is also worth spending some time browsing.

A Breathtaking Exterior

Not only exquisite on the inside, this house is an architectural historian’s delight on the outside as well. Its external façade dates back three centuries, encompassing years of history, drama and personal stories. 

The gardens of this charming country estate are renowned in the local area, not just for their size (8,000 acres) but for their beauty too. The parkland surrounding the estate gives visitors a wonderful opportunity to stroll through nature, witnessing the finest in the mastery of British topiary.

There are multiple waymarked walking routes that are set out with signage to lead visitors on a well-rounded and comprehensive tour of the gardens.

Put the House to Bed

Dorset weekend breaks are never going to be long enough to enjoy more than a taste of what the county offers, but you won’t regret choosing to dedicate one (or even two) of your days to visit Kingston Lacy.

One of the more unusual and unmissable opportunities for visitors to Kingston Lacy is the ‘Put the House to Bed’ Tour, where you can join those who take care of the building in its entirety, and learn in a hands-on fashion how the house is ‘put to bed’ for its hibernation over the winter months.

Not active enough for you? How about a guided cycle ride around the estate? Ensuring you get shown the most exciting and niche features of the mansion, the route will take you to multiple stops around the parklands, giving you the chance to get some exercise, learn some facts, and be exposed to some raw, natural beauty.

Make It Special

There is such a wide range of activities that can keep all members of your group happy in Dorset. Weekend breaks to this part of the country have a touch of the regal to them, especially when you take the time to visit somewhere as majestic and grandiose as Kingston Lacy.

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Michael Paul is the Managing Director of Michael Paul Holidays, a holiday property agency offering a handpicked range of accommodation in wonderful UK locations. Whether you are looking for the best Dorset weekend breaks or the cosiest cottages and log cabins in Scotland, he and his team will find you that perfect property for an unforgettable trip.