This historic gem on the banks of the River Thames is one of the best-preserved houses in Europe

The exterior of the historic Ham House - a well-reserved Stuart mansion
Credit: Kiev.Victor, Shutterstock

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If you’re an avid Secret London reader, you probably already have a whole host of hidden gems tucked firmly up your sleeve. But if you do happen to be on the lookout for one more, I come bearing a particularly twinkly one. Picture-perfectly perched on the banks of the River Thames is Ham House and Garden; a 17th-century mansion (and garden) where time seems to have stood still. Hailed as one of the best-preserved historic houses in Europe (and one of the most haunted, for that matter), it’s a spot that’s well worth traversing the entire breadth of the District Line for. And believe me, I don’t say that lightly.

The history of Ham House and Garden

Ham House was originally built in 1610 and was gifted by King Charles I to his loyal courtiers, William and Catherine Murray in 1626. The Murrays lived there with their daughter, Elizabeth, who went on to become the Duchess of Lauderdale. The house later fell into the hands of the tenacious Duchess and her husband, and together they transformed the spot into one of the grandest Stuart houses in the country. The Grade I listed house has been incredibly well-preserved and still boasts may of its original features and interiors. In 1948, Ham House and Garden was generously gifted to the National Trust, who continue to look after the property and its gardens to this very day.

A view of Ham House through a brick archway Credit: AndyScott, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

A ‘rare survivor of 17th century luxury’, the house oozes opulence and grandeur. It’s widely recognised for its impressive collection of artwork, furnishings, and textiles – and is home to one of the earliest Chinese teapots that the Duchess herself supposedly poured her cuppas from. The house is surrounded by intricately-designed and gorgeously well-kept gardens. There’s a Kitchen Garden, ‘maze-like wilderness’, many picture-perfect picnic spots, and one of the first ever Orangery cafes. There’s also a gorgeous second-hand bookshop on site.

Ham House is particularly notorious for its haunted happenings. Hailed as one of the most haunted houses in Britain; eerie events have included cold areas, the sound of footsteps, and the scent of roses. The pad is supposedly home to around 16 ghosts including a dog, a servant, and the relentless spirit of Elizabeth Murray (the Duchess).

Ham House and some of its surrounded land under a bright blue sky Credit: AndyScott, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

If all that hasn’t convinced you to pay this gorgeous gaff a visit, perhaps this will. Ham House may look familiar to you because it can be seen on-screen in Bridgerton. The historic house features as the backdrop to many of the Ton’s gatherings, including the iconic masquerade ball where Benedict first meets the ‘Lady in Silver’.

Visiting Ham House and Garden

You’ll find the historic Ham House and Garden on Ham Street in Richmond (TW10 7RS). There is a free public car park nearby at the end of Ham Street but the house is also accessible on foot and by public transport (the nearest station is Richmond). The house itself is open daily from 11.30am-3.30pm but the cafe and garden are open to the public from 10am-4.30pm. You can find out more, snap up some tickets, and plan your visit here.