The Northamptonshire home of the Duke of Buccleuch and Queensbury, K.T., Boughton was originally a monastic building dating from the early 15th century. After its purchase by the Montagu family in 1528, it was transformed over 250 years into one of the great houses of Europe.
The impressive North front with its classical French lines gives Boughton the appearance of a complete chateau on arrival at the main entrance, but this masks a characteristically English structure of almost village-like proportions, with its 7 courtyards, 12 entrances, 52 chimney stacks and 365 windows. The 1.25 acres of Collyweston stone roofing blend with the great spread of lawns, lakes, woods, and over 280 year old avenues stretching for many miles.
The special attraction of Boughton lies in the harmonious blendings of the superb collection of paintings, furniture, tapestries, needlework, carpets, porcelain, arms and silver. All these in a setting of extreme beauty with a magical atmosphere to match, just as the artists, craftsmen and discriminating collectors intended.
Clock Court The Stables Arch
Public access to the estate is now administered by the Living Landscape Trust, set up by the Duke of Buccleuch and the Earl of Dalkeith in 1985, and representing a continuity of their commitment to conserve the British countryside. The Trust aims to provide information about the countryside, the necessary work that goes on there, and its conservation, to a public that is becoming aware of environmental issues and dangers.
This work continues the traditions of a rural estate - under one family's stewardship for almost 500 years - in preserving its identity as part of the national heritage whilst demonstrating its operation to a wider audience.
Tea Room
Part of the former Stable Block has been converted into a Tea Room, offering a wide choice of home-made fayre - lunches, cakes, and light refreshments.
Garden Shop
The Garden Shop in the walled garden has quality herbaceous, bedding, and indoor plants, shrubs, garden pots and planters.
Gift Shop
The Gift Shop has a selection of quality gifts, books, postcards, souvenirs, local honey, and estate-made ice cream.
Location
Boughton House is situated off the A43, 3 miles north of Kettering and the A14, through the village of Geddington.
Further Information and Opening Times
Visit the superb Boughton House web site.