David Garrick: An Actor and His Time

David Garrick was regarded as the most iconic actor of the 18th century, and possibly the finest influence upon the English Theatre. In 1754, he purchased Hampton House (now Garrick’s Villa) which overlooks the river Thames. In the gardens he oversaw the design of a Temple built in the Classical style popularised by the Italian architect Palladio with an Ionic portico. This he dedicated to his muse Shakespeare, being the one playwright whose works he had performed with the greatest acclaim.

Marble Hill: Howard and Her Garden of Grottos and Groves

In the early 18th century, ideas about garden design were changing fast. Using 18th century plans and archives we will explore the garden at Marble Hill, which included grottos, groves, wildernesses and a ninepin bowling alley! Henrietta Howard’s friendships with Alexander Pope, Lord Bathurst, Lord Peterborough and Lord Ilay, meant that her garden at Marble Hill was influenced by some of the most fashionable garden enthusiasts of the time.

London Luminaries
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping us to understand which sections of the website you find most useful and interesting.

You can adjust all of your cookie settings by navigating the tabs on the left hand side.