Ham House & Garden

Perched on the edge of the River Thames, this 17th-century Stuart mansion combines extensive formal gardens with a lavish interior that belies the house's historical significance. In 1626 Ham House became the property of William Murray, a lifelong supporter of Charles I, and thus emerged as a hotbed of Civil War politics and Restoration court intrigue. Boasting important collections of textiles, furniture and paintings, a celebrated Cherry Garden and a formal listed avenue of over 250 trees, the house and grounds have hardly changed since conception. The mansion's occupants have also changed little over the years - Ham House is reputedly one of the most haunted houses in Britain.