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With these delightful prospects in view, I wished to make Pitzhanger Manor-house as complete as possible for the future residence of the young Architect, whose classical education and the facilities and advantages he possessed would enable him to distinguish himself above his fellows in the practice of a profession calculated to increase domestic comfort and the refinements of civilised society.
–
Sir John Soane, 1835
Pitzhanger Manor, located in what was then the village of Ealing, was the country residence of renowned British architect Sir John Soane. Acquired by Soane in 1800, he envisioned it as a showcase for his architectural collection and talents, as well as a family home intended to establish a dynasty of architects, beginning with his sons John and George.
Pitzhanger before Soane
A manor house had existed on the site of Pitzhanger since the seventeenth century, but in 1768 George Dance was commissioned to build an extension, on which a young John Soane had one of his first architectural apprenticeships.
Soane at Pitzhanger
In 1800, when the house came on the market, Soane bought it for £4,500, removing much of the original building but leaving one wing – the extension on which he had worked as a young man.
Soane built his Manor between 1800 and 1804: it is a laboratory of his most innovative designs, and a showcase of his talents: he would invite some of the most influential people of the day to dine at Pitzhanger, and used the house to show his clients what he could do for them.
Domestic in scale, Pitzhanger was the Soane family’s country home – he had purchased a home in central London at Lincoln’s Inn Fields, now open as the Sir John Soane’s Museum, and would walk between Pitzhanger and Holborn regularly.
The house and gardens are a lasting testimony to Soane’s skill and imagination as an architect, but the dynasty never materialised. In 1810, when his sons proved a disappointment, Soane sold Pitzhanger, and moved his library and collection of art and antiquities to his London home in Lincoln’s Inn Fields, which is now the Sir John Soane’s Museum.
Pitzhanger after Soane
The house passed through several owners until in 1843 it became the home to the daughters of the former UK Prime Minister Spencer Perceval. It was in the Perceval family until 1900 where it was sold to Ealing District Council. It then opened as Ealing’s public library, with a new building, now Pitzhanger Gallery, built on the site of Soane’s kitchen block in 1939. Pitzhanger Manor House and Gallery opened as a heritage attraction in 1987, showing contemporary art exhibitions from 1996. It closed in 2015 for a major conservation project to restore the Manor to Soane’s original designs, and upgrade the contemporary Gallery.
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery is now open to the public Wednesday–Sunday each week.
Come and visit us and find out more about Soane and his time at Pitzhanger Manor.
Instagram @pitzhanger
Antiques Roadshow at Pitzhanger is back! Tune in this Sunday at 8pm on BBC One to uncover the exciting artefacts discovered by the Antiques Roadshow team.
This week, highlights include a unique engagement ring, a note written by Oscar Wilde, and an Olympic medal from the 1930s. Plus, Fiona Bruce explores pieces from the country’s largest collection of Martinware, once housed at Pitzhanger, and delves into the fascinating stories behind the artists who created them.
We can`t wait for you to join us and discover the incredible treasures found at Pitzhanger featured on Antiques Roadshow!
BBC Antiques Roadshow at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 Second Episode: 15 September 2024
🕔 8pm
📺 BBC One
@bbcantiquesroadshow
@ealingcouncil
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #NationalArtPass #HistoricHouses #AntiquesRoadshow #BBCOne #Ealing #SirJohnSoane #JMWTurner #HistoricHouse #ArtAndHistory
With the start of the school year just begun and summer coming to an end, what better way to spend the weekend than at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery!
This September we have a wide range of exciting workshops and exhibitions for all ages. Come along to our free with general admission guided tours where you can learn more about Pitzhanger and its narrative that spans centuries. For children aged 1-5 we have our Mini Makers sessions which will allow them to unleash their creativity with hands-on art making. Don’t forgot our ongoing exhibitions including Grayson Perry, Pigments and Photons, From Waste to Wonder and Southall Resists 2024 which opens on 21st!
Don’t worry if you aren’t able to make it to Pitzhanger this month, you are able to watch Pitzhanger on Antiques Roadshow on BBC iPlayer now!
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 Open Wednesday–Sunday
📍 Ealing, London W5 5EQ
🚇 Ealing Broadway Station (Elizabeth, Central, District, National Rail)
@bbcantiquesroadshow
@alanmeasles
@binet.helene
@antoni.malinowski
@parkroyaldesigndistrict
@a_beginners_
@gracemccarthy_design
@victorpedrosaceramics
@davidsamuel_rarekind
@blast.studio
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #NationalArtPass #HistoricHouses #SirJohnSoane #WhatsOn
Today marks 224 years since Sir John Soane was the official owner of Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery!
At the time, Ealing was a quiet village 8 miles outside of London, known for its orchards, pastures, and market gardens that supplied the city with hay, fruit, milk, and vegetables. Pitzhanger previously belonged to the Gurnell family, bankers who had commissioned an extension by George Dance. Soane, captivated by the design, fell in love with the property and quickly secured the purchase when it went on the market in 1800 for £4,500. He demolished the original house, keeping only the extension, and transformed it into the stunning building we see today!
If you could own a historic manor, what changes would you make?
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 Open Wednesday–Sunday
📍 Ealing, London W5 5EQ
🚇 Ealing Broadway Station (Elizabeth, Central, District, National Rail)
@soanemusuem
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #NationalArtPass #HistoricHouses #SirJohnSoane
Wedding bells are ringing at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery!
Almost 240 years ago, in 1784, Sir John Soane, the architect of Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery, married Eliza Soane at Christ Church, Southwark. Eliza played an essential role in the history of Pitzhanger. As a confidante and source of inspiration, her influence can be seen in many aspects of his work, including its architectural design. They had two sons, John and George, who caused the couple considerable grief. George ultimately became estranged from his parents after a series of personal failures and conflicts, while John died young—both events were a deep blow to the couple. These tragedies strained their marriage, but they remained united in their grief. After Eliza’s death in 1815, John dedicated much of his work to her.
Come see how their strong relationship, marked by love and loss, impacted John’s creative expression at Pitzhanger. Want to get married at Pitzhanger yourself get in touch with private.hire@pitzhanger.org.uk
@pitzhangerevents
@soanemuseum
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 Open Wednesday–Sunday
📍 Ealing, London W5 5EQ
🚇 Ealing Broadway Station (Elizabeth, Central, District, National Rail)
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #NationalArtPass #HistoricHouses #SirJohnSoane #ElizaSoane
🚨 Missed the BBC Antiques Roadshow at Pitzhanger? Don`t worry! You can still catch up on the first episode, filmed at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery, on BBC iPlayer. 📺✨
In this episode, Fiona Bruce explores Sir John Soane`s architectural masterpiece and the fascinating stories of the notable figures who once graced these halls, including the legendary artist JMW Turner. 🎨🏛️
What was your favourite find? Was it the heroic pigeon Mary`s medal or something else? Tell us in the comments below! 🐦💬
After watching, why not visit us in person? Come explore the history, art, and architecture that make Pitzhanger so special. We can`t wait to welcome you! 🌟 Plan your visit with the link in bio.
BBC Antiques Roadshow at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📺 First episode is now available on BBC iPlayer
@bbcantiquesroadshow
@ealingcouncil
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #NationalArtPass #HistoricHouses #AntiquesRoadshow #BBCOne #Ealing #SirJohnSoane #JMWTurner #HistoricHouse #ArtAndHistory #MaryThePigeon
🌟 Don’t miss the premiere of BBC Antiques Roadshow Series 47 tonight at 8pm on BBC One, filmed right here at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery! 📺 This first episode, hosted by Fiona Bruce, explores the extraordinary life of Sir John Soane and his illustrious circle, including JMW Turner. Delve into the creativity and intellect that thrived within the walls of this architectural masterpiece in Ealing.
Feeling inspired? Join us tomorrow, Bank Holiday Monday, 26 August from 10am to 5pm! 🏛️ Discover the history, art, and architecture that make Pitzhanger a must-visit destination.
Stay tuned for more episodes filmed at our venue—subscribe to our newsletter for updates! Link in bio.
BBC Antiques Roadshow at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 First Episode: 25 August 2024
🕔 8pm
📺 BBC One
@bbcantiquesroadshow
@ealingcouncil
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #NationalArtPass #HistoricHouses #AntiquesRoadshow #BBCOne #Ealing #SirJohnSoane #JMWTurner #HistoricHouse #ArtAndHistory #BankHoliday #VisitUs
🎉 We`re excited to share that the first episode of the BBC Antiques Roadshow Series 47, filmed right here at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery, airs this Sunday, 25 August, at 8pm on BBC One! 📺✨
Join Fiona Bruce as she uncovers the rich history of Sir John Soane`s architectural masterpiece in Ealing and the notable figures it once hosted, including the great artist JMW Turner. 🎨🏛️
Over 3,000 visitors joined us for a day filled with stories and discoveries. Now, it`s time for the whole nation to see the treasures and tales from our community! 🌟
Don`t miss this special episode that brings Pitzhanger`s unique charm to life on screen. Tune in and enjoy! 💫
BBC Antiques Roadshow at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 First Episode: 25 August 2024
🕔 8pm
📺 BBC One
@bbcantiquesroadshow
@ealingcouncil
@ealinglivingmagazine
@ealing.news
@ealingnubnews
@thechiswickcalendar
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #NationalArtPass #HistoricHouses #AntiquesRoadshow #BBCOne #Ealing #SirJohnSoane #JMWTurner #HistoricHouse #ArtAndHistory
Read the caption below for upcoming events at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery this week!
📆 1 August
🕛 Noon–1pm
🗣️Pitzhanger Guided Tour
Explore Pitzhanger’s rich history with our guided tours. Delve into Sir John Soane’s architectural brilliance.
🎫 Free with General admission
🕔 5–8pm
🪡Thursday Late: Re-Make / Re-Model
Join us for an evening workshop by Ealing Repair Café, inspired by Grayson Perry’s exhibition, and a talk by Matt Small on `This Is England`.
🎫 Free with General admission
📆 2 August
🕙 10am–noon, 🕛 noon–2pm
👶Mini Makers: School Holiday Edition
Artist-led creative play sessions for kids aged 1 to 8 years. Join for artistic fun at The Rickyard by Walpole Park playground.
🎫 £9 Standard / £1 Concession / Members: up to 12 free sessions per year
📆 4 August
🕥 10.30am–12.30pm
🎶Open Sunday: Rattles & Hums Music Workshop with Kjell Mille
Drop in for a musical adventure that will have your little ones singing, playing and bopping along to tunes, perfect for babies and toddlers aged 8 months to 5 years.
🎫Free for Ealing Borough residents / Kids free with paying out-of-borough adult
Want to find out more? Click the link in our bio to book now!
@rattlesandhums
@maryhoresh
@matt_small_art
@ajlgenevier
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 Open Wednesday–Sunday
📍 Ealing Green, London W5 5EQ
🚇 Ealing Broadway Station (Elizabeth, Central, District, National Rail)
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design#Architecture #NationalArtPass#HistoricHouses
#SirJohnSoane
Do you know what inspired Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery’s front façade?
Sir John Soane, the architect of Pitzhanger, loved theatre and theatricality, and he saw the acts of seeing, walking through, and experiencing architecture as akin to the acts of a play. Visitors were introduced to the narrative of Soane’s life, from his training, travels, and professional successes. For instance, in 1812, Soane described the façade as ‘a picture, a sort of portrait’ of himself. Inspired by the Arch of Constantine in Rome, as seen on his Grand Tour, each Ionic column features a female figure, a caryatid, almost identical to the ones at the Bank of England.
Come visit Pitzhanger and uncover the personal touches and rich stories woven into its architecture.
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 Open Wednesday–Sunday
📍 Ealing Green, London W5 5EQ
🚇 Ealing Broadway Station (Elizabeth, Central, District, National Rail)
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #NationalArtPass #HistoricHouses
#SirJohnSoane
Looking for a break from election night? Join us on 4 July for Thursday Late for a special tour of the manor and workshop!
Discover Soane’s “starfish” dome ceiling in the library, a precursor to his designs for the state dining room at 10 Downing Street and participate in a workshop inspired by Soane’s banquets and imagine your perfect dinner party guest list. Enjoy a quiet, sophisticated drink at our bar, thanks to our partners Bella Pulgia.
Free entry for Ealing residents. Don’t miss out!
Soane’s Starfish Domes: From Pitzhanger to 10 Downing Street
📅 4 July 2024
⏰ 5.30-7.30pm
📍 Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery, Ealing Green, London W5 5EQ
🚇 Ealing Broadway Station (Elizabeth, Central, District, National Rail)
🎫 Free with General Admission
@10downingstreet
@bellapugliauk
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #NationalArtPass #HistoricHouses #ThursdayLate #SoaneTour #EalingEvents #HistoricManor
What Was Life Like for the Soane Family at Pitzhanger? ✨🌿
When Sir John Soane bought Pitzhanger in 1800, he envisioned it as a country retreat for his family from their London townhouse in Lincoln`s Inn Fields.
For Soane`s children, John and George, Pitzhanger offered a chance to explore the beautiful grounds and countryside. 🏞️ Soane hoped this idyllic setting would spark their interest in architecture.
However, life didn`t go as planned. John Jr. struggled with his health and showed little interest in architecture, while George was drawn to a career in the theatre. Soane`s dream of turning Pitzhanger into an architectural hub never materialised, and the estate was sold in 1810.
Today, you can visit Pitzhanger and immerse yourself in the setting in which this took place!✨
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 Open Wednesday–Sunday
📍 Ealing Green, London W5 5EQ
🚇 Ealing Broadway Station (Elizabeth, Central, District, National Rail)
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design#Architecture #NationalArtPass#HistoricHouses #sirjohnsoane
🏛️✨ Did you know? The works of Thomas Banks, the renowned neo-classical sculptor, beautifully complement Sir John Soane`s architectural design at Pitzhanger Manor. Friends from their time at the Royal Academy, their collaboration is showcased in the Manor`s facade and vestibule. 🤝
Discover Banks`s elegant reliefs and roundels, and see how they enhance Soane`s architectural vision. We are open throughout the New Year`s holiday, including New Year`s Day. Come and experience the artistic harmony between two respected figures of their era! 🎉🕊️
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
📅 Wednesday to Sunday
📍 Ealing Green, London W5 5EQ
🚇 Ealing Broadway Station (Elizabeth, Central, District, National Rail)
@royalacademyarts
@soanemuseum
#Pitzhanger #Ealing #London #Art #Design #Architecture #HistoricCollaboration #ThomasBanks #SirJohnSoane #ArtMeetsArchitecture
Categories Pitzhanger Manor Walpole Park
Tags Walpole park
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Sir John Soane
One of Britain’s most influential architects
From 1800 to 1804 Sir John Soane, one of Britain’s most influential architects, designed and built Pitzhanger Manor as his dream country retreat in then rural Ealing.
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Walpole Park
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