You know those spaces that seem to become more and more impressive the longer you look at them? Well, Basildon Park is definitely one of them. The 18th-century Georgian mansion is surrounded by 400 acres of historic parkland, as well as thousands of visitors each year eager to get a glimpse of the elegant interior. After a warm welcome at the entrance stable courtyard, all that remained was to walk through a woody path at a fairly steep incline until the building's West facade was visible...
I seriously couldn't have visited on a better day; one filled with sunshine and double-digit weather. Hey, I'm grateful for small mercies when it comes to Britain's weather! Although the building of Basildon Park begun in 1772, my exploration of its interior would have to wait a little longer, as first a certain chocolate brownie called my name from the National Trust property's café. The photo above shows just one of the café's illustrated walls; tranquil and tropical scenes each combining nature and wildlife. There's a special place in my heart for colourful murals and never more so than those suggesting a warm climate. Mmm.
Basildon Park is now a 're-creation and restoration' of the 18th-century mansion, having been rescued in the mid 1950s by Lord and Lady Iliffe. Architectural fixtures and fittings were tracked down, along with fine paintings, fabrics and furniture. The result is spectacular, with each room exuding an elegance that resonates with its bygone era, in a way that feels as though the original occupants have only just left. In particular - like most historic houses - the high ornate ceilings had me swooning, with each room encouraging my camera to turn upwards. Check out the entrance hall's lavish ceiling below!
Helpful volunteer guides await visitors, eager to provide a background on each of the downstairs rooms - it's incredible how much information I came away with! A huge bonus for me was undoubtedly finding out photography was permitted throughout Basildon Park. Needless to say, some areas/portraits were off-bounds, however the majority was ready and waiting to be captured.
After spending a little while exploring the Bath-stone building's interior, daffodils marked the path to a beautiful walled garden space with scattered benches. I feel like a broken record on A Glass Of Ice by continuously mentioning my adoration for sunshine, but an idyllic moment at Basildon Park seriously encouraged that habit. As the sun beamed down on my suede jacket and forced me to remove my scarf, I looked up and saw the historic house in an even brighter light. Literally. Basildon Park seen as the sun is setting is very, very special!
Gloves on, gloves off! The warmer weather makes visiting places such as Basildon Park all the more special. It's impossible not to catch yourself occasionally imagining those from a previous era wandering through the house and grounds. Were they impressed? Did they appreciate just what they'd created? Had they contemplated visitors admiring the location centuries later? I wish I could hurl samples of the café's brownies in your direction, or perhaps a gorgeous gilded picture frame or two, but I'm afraid this virtual tour will have to do! Though, fingers crossed I've persuaded you to check out this historic venue - and follow in the footsteps of many of those gone before! Basildon Park Lower Basildon Reading West Berkshire RG8 9NR
Sunshine & double digit temperature? That kind of sounds like every day in San Diego. I'd be down for some rainy days over here. Basilon Park in the light of the setting sun sounds beautiful indeed. :]
What a stunning location! I love places like this. Complimentary dog biscuits? How perfect is that?! Need to go there :) Christina ♥ https://caliope-couture.com
Wow. You always visit the most amazing places. I totally love this place, I would love to travel with you to these places, just like this :D Xx Blue Ducklings http://www.blueducklings.wordpress.com
I have such a soft spot for bath stone architecture and this mansion looks incredible! Those ceilings are insanely pretty :) And the complimentary dog biscuits are such a cute idea. I don't blame you for talking about how much you love sunshine- it's such a rarity in England!
Aw the beautiful British countryside. I haven't explored Reading that much, so I haven't been this park, but the colonial interior looks at its best. Great photos and you're very stylish xx
Complimentary dog biscuits...sold!!! What an absolute corker of a location. Not too far away from me so I'm adding that to my list of places to visit, love a good cultured day out. And I seeeeeeriously wish you COULD throw some of that brownie in my direction...!!! I'm starving right now!!
Oh my god the mansion/castle looks so so beautiful and dreamy...the architecture is amazing. That table setting! And yes I wouldn't mind some brownies ;)
Oh this place is stunning!! I totally agree, sometimes the place grows on u! Love the architecture and the interiors! And u Gabrielle are beautiful!! Thestyletune.com
That second photo really took my breath away! It was kind of an eerie moment, one can hardly believe that such a magical place is real. Thank you so much for sharing...and how cool is that wall painting (the one with elephants)!!!
you look gorgeous as usual! Very stylish casual combo...phenomenal boots!
Such a gorgeous and historic location! It really is breathtaking. Yay for warmer weather, spring is def round the corner Thanks for sharing this Gabrielle.
Your travel posts are some of the best on your blog, Gabrielle. Not only we're treated with fabulous pictures but your writing takes us through the places with you.
ps: How gorgeous is your gloves? They are some of the prettiest I've seen.
This looks like such a stunning place you can picture yourself living and never come back to your place ever again! :-) I just love your photos so much especially your style here fits perfectly with the mood of the style. :) xx http://www.bauchlefashion.com
This place looks really amazing! And don't worry about repeating yourself about the sunshine, I think it's gorgeous too and should be more appreciated by everybody else.
I would definately want to visit that amazing place. Too beautiful and you look great! http://fai-heart.blogspot.ru/2016/03/some-kinda-beautiful-shift-dress.html
Amazing post, dear! :) Do you want to follow each other? If yes, please follow me with GFC, write a comment and I follow you back :) http://vesnamar.blogspot.rs/
Oh my goodness, I saw the fist picture and immediately recognised the location, I have been here before, it is absolutely gorgeous, so serene and calm. I loved it there, I went with a few family members and it was such an amazing day, such a perfect day to spend a summers day. Loved this post Gabrielle ♥ tipscapsule.blogspot.com
Beautiful pictures, definitely looks like you picked the perfect day to visit The interiors are so glamorous, exquisite shots, and I would love a brownie sample please!
The mansion looks gorgeous! I wish I could visit there someday! It seems like a perfect place to hang out, chill and get inspiration. Thanks a lot for sharing this great post. Happy Thursday. xo Anita
Such a beautiful post,dear! Do you want to support each other by following on GFC? If you'd like that, please follow me on the both of my blogs and I'll follow you back ASAP when you write me a comments on the newest posts. xx :) <3
Vildana from : http://living-like-v.blogspot.ba/2016/03/the-liebster-award.html http://staliaisbae.blogspot.ba/2016/03/why-am-i-void.html
It certainly looks as if you couldn't have picked a better day to visit Gabrielle! Both the mansion itself and the grounds look spectacular. They did an amazing job restoring the place.
Wow I wish I could visit Basildon Park; I feel like you always go to these gorgeous, historical sights and they're so fascinating. I don't often see daffodils either, so a field of them looks so pretty. Love your outfit too, the gloves are especially cute!
It is such a pretty place, and it reminds me of the Downton Abbey location a bit. The mural is gorgeous, I can see why you love it. I'm and art lover and murals make me happy!
The decor of basildon really is something else! Just look at those celling's and the pretty detailing! Incredible!! p.s loved your outfit, very classy and stylish xx
looks like the perfect place for me, in love with that fantastic ceiling and the huge spaces around great review too, very well written http://www.theitalianglam.com/
I definitely see what you mean about it becoming more impressive. Wow, those pictures are stunning. And the complimentary dog treats are so cute! Love it haha.
This mansion is so beautiful, I love old decorated ceilings they just make me stare in awe! Also that view, what an amazing sight! Definitely a place I'd love to visit in the future!
What a splendid restoration, I am utterly captured by the intricate ceiling as well as the dining interiors. Such beauty at Basildon Park. Thanks so much for virtually taking us there with you. Happy Friday! FASHION TALES
awwww I saw those complimentary dog treats in few countryside locations!!:)) Gorge look as usual - I don't look that smart when travelling! Kira Kira Is Wearing Instagram
Oh Gabrielle what a stunning and beautiful place Basildon Park is! It's been gloves on gloves off weather here too I agree with you on that. All beautiful! Gemma x www.jacquardflower.uk
What a beautiful place! I love the decor of that room with the gilded mirrors and frame. I could just see myself laying on that feather filled settee/sofa reading a book. These photos are gorgeous! ~Lili www.thefashionsalt.com
Gabrielle, I'm a huge fan of 18th century Georgian, so I like this house much more than Highclere. Glad I discovered your blog today, I know I'm going to enjoy it!
What a lovely place to visit and that brownie looked so tasty!
ReplyDeleteMallory // Perhaps Bananas
Sunshine & double digit temperature? That kind of sounds like every day in San Diego. I'd be down for some rainy days over here. Basilon Park in the light of the setting sun sounds beautiful indeed. :]
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What a stunning location! I love places like this. Complimentary dog biscuits? How perfect is that?! Need to go there :)
ReplyDeleteChristina ♥ https://caliope-couture.com
Beautiful photos! Love to visit this place!
ReplyDeleteXoxo,
Love from www.trangscorner.com {a lifestyle, fashion, beauty, and food blog}
How ridiculously gorgeous and picturesque! This looks like such a dreamy place to be, wow. Thanks for sharing Gabrielle!
ReplyDeleteAmber | y a c h t s m a a n
My goodness. This places is so lovely. Like every angle has its own beauty.
ReplyDeleteWow. You always visit the most amazing places. I totally love this place, I would love to travel with you to these places, just like this :D
ReplyDeleteXx Blue Ducklings
http://www.blueducklings.wordpress.com
This place looks spectacular!
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Omg! I am in love! this place looks amazing!
ReplyDeleteAsh | Liakada
I have such a soft spot for bath stone architecture and this mansion looks incredible! Those ceilings are insanely pretty :) And the complimentary dog biscuits are such a cute idea. I don't blame you for talking about how much you love sunshine- it's such a rarity in England!
ReplyDeleteRachel xx
http://www.thedailyluxe.net
Aw the beautiful British countryside. I haven't explored Reading that much, so I haven't been this park, but the colonial interior looks at its best. Great photos and you're very stylish xx
ReplyDeleteLooking cute and fabulous doll :) Happy Wednesday!
ReplyDeletep/s We are taking on the '5 Piece French Wardrobe Challenge'. Insane idea to begin with but do stop by our latest post and let us know what you think!
Real Life Nerd
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Also, love the new profile picture! x
DeleteThis mansion looks amazing and love those daffodils, so pretty! Thanks for sharing your experience!
ReplyDeletePrudence
www.prudencepetitestyle.com
Basildon Park looks absolutely gorgeous! And I love that they give away free dog biscuits!
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Complimentary dog biscuits...sold!!! What an absolute corker of a location. Not too far away from me so I'm adding that to my list of places to visit, love a good cultured day out. And I seeeeeeriously wish you COULD throw some of that brownie in my direction...!!! I'm starving right now!!
ReplyDeletexx lacoconoire.com
SO beautiful! I always enjoy reading your posts, hun!
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Oh my god the mansion/castle looks so so beautiful and dreamy...the architecture is amazing. That table setting! And yes I wouldn't mind some brownies ;)
ReplyDeletexo, alice / T Y P E N U
Wow that looks like such a beautiful and peaceful place. If it looks that nice in photos, I can only imagine how it would be like in person.
ReplyDelete~Andrea Tiffany~
http://aglimpseofglam.blogspot.com
Oh this place is stunning!! I totally agree, sometimes the place grows on u! Love the architecture and the interiors! And u Gabrielle are beautiful!!
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I really loved this post Gabby!! Please could you tell me where you got those gorgeous gloves? I am in love! x
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Hi Christie, unfortunately I bought these at an independent boutique and so don't have a brand name for them, sorry!
DeleteGabrielle x
That second photo really took my breath away! It was kind of an eerie moment, one can hardly believe that such a magical place is real. Thank you so much for sharing...and how cool is that wall painting (the one with elephants)!!!
ReplyDeleteyou look gorgeous as usual! Very stylish casual combo...phenomenal boots!
http://modaodaradosti.blogspot.com/
Wow great photos! That seems like a place I would totally like to visit! Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteThank you for visiting my blog! It was over a year ago and I am finally back into blogging!
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Such a gorgeous and historic location! It really is breathtaking. Yay for warmer weather, spring is def round the corner
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this Gabrielle.
Keisha xo
Your travel posts are some of the best on your blog, Gabrielle. Not only we're treated with fabulous pictures but your writing takes us through the places with you.
ReplyDeleteps: How gorgeous is your gloves? They are some of the prettiest I've seen.
Shireen | Reflection of Sanity
Wow that place looks beautiful, it kind of reminds me of the Downton Abbey house in some lights?
ReplyDeleteThat brownie looks really good as well, I would've gone for that if I was there as well. Priorities!
www.thesundaymode.blogspot.com.au
Hey! Funnily enough some of the Downton Abbey footage was shot here - theres a room on-site packed full with memorabilia and photos :)
DeleteGabrielle x
This looks like such a stunning place you can picture yourself living and never come back to your place ever again! :-) I just love your photos so much especially your style here fits perfectly with the mood of the style. :) xx http://www.bauchlefashion.com
ReplyDeleteThis place looks really amazing! And don't worry about repeating yourself about the sunshine, I think it's gorgeous too and should be more appreciated by everybody else.
ReplyDeleteJoycentricity
I would definately want to visit that amazing place. Too beautiful and you look great!
ReplyDeletehttp://fai-heart.blogspot.ru/2016/03/some-kinda-beautiful-shift-dress.html
Amazing post, dear! :) Do you want to follow each other? If yes, please follow me with GFC, write a comment
ReplyDeleteand I follow you back :)
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Oh my goodness, I saw the fist picture and immediately recognised the location, I have been here before, it is absolutely gorgeous, so serene and calm. I loved it there, I went with a few family members and it was such an amazing day, such a perfect day to spend a summers day. Loved this post Gabrielle ♥
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have a great day!
ReplyDeleteWow stunning place, it looks like taken from a movie! Amazing outfit too! =D
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xoxo,
Jessica
Love it!
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http://evdaily.blogspot.com
That place is so lovely!
ReplyDeleteSTYLE VANITY
Lovely !! :)
ReplyDeleteNEW POST : THE COLORFUL THOUGHTS
Beautiful pictures, definitely looks like you picked the perfect day to visit
ReplyDeleteThe interiors are so glamorous, exquisite shots, and I would love a brownie sample please!
Thanks for sharing
What Raj Wants
Your review really makes me want to visit, I love the ceiling details
ReplyDeleteThe mansion looks gorgeous! I wish I could visit there someday! It seems like a perfect place to hang out, chill and get inspiration. Thanks a lot for sharing this great post. Happy Thursday. xo Anita
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IG/FB/Twitter/Pinterest @siammpatra
Beautiful place !!
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Such a beautiful post,dear!
ReplyDeleteDo you want to support each other by following on GFC? If you'd like that, please follow me on the both of my blogs and I'll follow you back ASAP when you write me a comments on the newest posts. xx :) <3
Vildana from :
http://living-like-v.blogspot.ba/2016/03/the-liebster-award.html
http://staliaisbae.blogspot.ba/2016/03/why-am-i-void.html
It certainly looks as if you couldn't have picked a better day to visit Gabrielle! Both the mansion itself and the grounds look spectacular. They did an amazing job restoring the place.
ReplyDeletegreat post
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i love the interior. it reminds me of cinderella or something so it makes me love it even more x
ReplyDeletehttp://www.fionnac.com
thank you for your comment...in refrence to that, I just had to stop by to tell you I think you would look fantastic in flares!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful historical place and your photos are incredible as always. Thanks for sharing with us Gabrielle:)
ReplyDeletexxM
sunstreetbymonica.blogspot.com
Basildon Park looks utterly beautiful like something from a movie set. I can imagine 1920's film being shot here *thinks of gastby dresses*.
ReplyDeleteThese photographs are stunning and I love the architectural fixtures and interior decor inside. This place really does have the wow factor.
Those grounds are so picture perfect too!
Thanks for sharing!
Lovely post.
Laura xo
www.shehearts.net
Oh wow, this place is absolutely beautiful! I am in awe of the amazing architecture!
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http://ourruins.com
Wow I wish I could visit Basildon Park; I feel like you always go to these gorgeous, historical sights and they're so fascinating. I don't often see daffodils either, so a field of them looks so pretty. Love your outfit too, the gloves are especially cute!
ReplyDeleteSam | http://mybeautycloud.com
It is such a pretty place, and it reminds me of the Downton Abbey location a bit. The mural is gorgeous, I can see why you love it. I'm and art lover and murals make me happy!
ReplyDeletexo,
Tania
http://inspiremyfancy.blogspot.com/
How stunning is this place! It's such a wonderful mix of classy, outdoorsy, and peaceful.
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The decor of basildon really is something else! Just look at those celling's and the pretty detailing! Incredible!! p.s loved your outfit, very classy and stylish xx
ReplyDeleteJenny | Krystel Couture ♥
looks like the perfect place for me, in love with that fantastic ceiling and the huge spaces around
ReplyDeletegreat review too, very well written
http://www.theitalianglam.com/
What a fantastic review, Gaby ;) Really makes me want to visit, I love your gloves...
ReplyDeleteWow, incredible photos! What a lovely place! I love the picture of the door that opens up to the green field. Frame that!
ReplyDeleteHailey
www.themiddlecloset.com
beautiful photos
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I definitely see what you mean about it becoming more impressive. Wow, those pictures are stunning. And the complimentary dog treats are so cute! Love it haha.
ReplyDeleteVia Sora
Wow every corner of this place this stunning! I love yours gloves too!
ReplyDeleteTina
www.justatinabit.com
So incredibly beautiful!
ReplyDeleteGod bless,
XO, Claire
Http://www.littlemissfashionqueen.com
Oh my! This place looks amazing! It's like straight out from a movie! So dreamy! btw you're super stunning!
ReplyDeletexx
Ana
Indie Suns | Bloglovin' | Instagram
I use the word dreamy a bit too much, but I honestly can not think of a better word to describe this trip and location!
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Wow such a beautiful place and your outfit is on point.
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This mansion is so beautiful, I love old decorated ceilings they just make me stare in awe! Also that view, what an amazing sight! Definitely a place I'd love to visit in the future!
ReplyDeleteSally - DiagonSally
So grand and gorgeous! I'm stunned by how picturesque it all is. You look lovely too. The grounds are so beautiful
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You always visit such elegant places. It looks so peaceful. =)
ReplyDeleteMelanie | The Mel Division
Amazing post! This place looks so lovely. :)
ReplyDeleteHave a nice weekend!
Lovely post, dear! .x
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What a splendid restoration, I am utterly captured by the intricate ceiling as well as the dining interiors. Such beauty at Basildon Park. Thanks so much for virtually taking us there with you. Happy Friday!
ReplyDeleteFASHION TALES
so nice place
ReplyDeleteMrs NoOne
Such a nice place *_*
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Federica
awwww I saw those complimentary dog treats in few countryside locations!!:)) Gorge look as usual - I don't look that smart when travelling!
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Kira Is Wearing
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You're always venturing to the coolest places! What amazing pictures, it looks like a fantasy land. :)
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Oh Gabrielle what a stunning and beautiful place Basildon Park is! It's been gloves on gloves off weather here too I agree with you on that. All beautiful! Gemma x
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What an amazing place! I adore the interior of the old places like that, they are impressive! complimentary dog biscuits is a great idea :) x
ReplyDeleteEla BellaWorld
What a stunning location and photographs.. You look great as always!
ReplyDeleteMari
www.randomstein.com
What a beautiful place! I love the decor of that room with the gilded mirrors and frame. I could just see myself laying on that feather filled settee/sofa reading a book. These photos are gorgeous!
ReplyDelete~Lili
www.thefashionsalt.com
Gabrielle, I'm a huge fan of 18th century Georgian, so I like this house much more than Highclere. Glad I discovered your blog today, I know I'm going to enjoy it!
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