Local Wildlife Site

These large, landscaped grounds are of considerable historic interest, and contain a variety of good wildlife habitats. Large areas of secondary woodland are known as ‘The Wilderness’. The design drew on 17th century influences and followed the contemporary architectural school of thought suggesting order superimposed on nature. Formal avenues, classical temples, an artificial lake and a created wilderness, were all part of the grand scheme begun in 1715. The park has recently been renovated as part of a £12m Lottery Project. This Grade 1 listed SINC is also now administered by the Chiswick House and Gardens Trust – a joint management body put together by Hounslow Council and English Heritage. There are a number of important buildings, most notably Chiswick House itself, but also the Conservatory, one of the earliest glasshouses in Britain, which houses the unique Camellia collection. There is an active Friends Group – the Chiswick House Friends at www.chfriends.org.uk.