The Ickworth Hotel

Description

Home to the Hervey family from 1702 until 1996, Ickworth House was influenced by the Italian travels of Frederick Augustus Hervey. The most striking thing you’ll notice as you arrive is the Rotunda. At over 100 feet high, this impressive building was the brainchild of Fredrick Augustus, 4th Earl of Bristol and the Bishop of Derry (also known as the Earl-Bishop), to house his estranged family and provide galleries for his art collection.

The Earl-Bishop only ever saw the Rotunda built: he was never able to view the completed building due to his untimely death in 1803 on the road to Albano. It was only in 1821 that work resumed on the building and Italianate Garden. The family moved into the East Wing in 1829, with the Rotunda state rooms used as a gallery and entertainment space. The West Wing was left empty, being an architectural shell added only for symmetry.

The Herveys were dedicated hosts, inviting many of the great and good to stay. Today, reminders of Ickworth’s notable guests can be found in its room names. Louis and Amelie allude to the King and Queen of France, who stayed here in the 18th century, while Lady Montagu refers to a well-known 18th century poet.

Read more: http://www.ickworthhotel.co.uk/about-ickworth-hotel#ixzz3v9HDPMCo
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