Christmas & New Year Opening Hours

Plan your festive visit to Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery! We have special opening hours over Christmas and New Year, and some rooms will be partially closed on select dates for private events.

For full details, visit our opening hours page.

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Portrait of John Soane by William Owen, 1804. © Sir John Soane’s Museum, London.

“To be distinguished as an architect has been the ruling passion of my life.” Sir John Soane, 1827

Sir John Soane

Sir John Soane, born in 1753, is one of England’s most influential architects. Soane is known for his innovative designs including Pitzhanger Manor, the Bank of England, Sir John Soane’s Museum and Dulwich Picture Gallery continues to inspire and educate visitors to this day. 

Early Life and Education

Sir John Soane, was born on September 10, 1753, in Goring-on-Thames, Oxfordshire. The son of a bricklayer, Soane’s early years were humble, but his talent and passion for architecture set him on a path to greatness. He studied at the Royal Academy in London, where he won the prestigious Royal Academy Gold Medal in 1776. This accolade marked the beginning of a distinguished career.

Architectural Career

Soane’s architectural style is characterized by its innovative use of light, space, and classical elements. After his education, he traveled to Italy on a Grand Tour, where he was deeply influenced by ancient Roman architecture. Upon his return to England, Soane embarked on a series of ambitious projects that cemented his reputation.

One of his most notable commissions was the Bank of England, where he served as the official architect from 1788 to 1833. Soane transformed the bank’s design, incorporating his signature use of natural light and creating a series of domes and skylights that became hallmarks of his work. His design philosophy emphasised functionality and beauty.

Pitzhanger Manor and Gallery

Among Soane’s significant projects is Pitzhanger Manor, located in Ealing, London. Purchased by Soane in 1800, Pitzhanger Manor was initially intended as a country retreat for his family and a statement of his architectural prowess. Soane extensively remodelled the manor between 1800 and 1804, transforming it into a showcase of his innovative design principles.

Pitzhanger Manor reflects Soane’s love for classical architecture, featuring elements such as arches, vaults, and a striking use of light and shadow. The gallery, added during the renovation, housed Soane’s extensive art collection, including works by Sir Joshua Reynolds and J.M.W. Turner.

Personal Life

In 1784, Soane married Eliza Smith, and the couple had two children. Despite professional success, Soane’s personal life was marred by tragedy. His eldest son, John, died young, and his relationship with his surviving son, George, was fraught with conflict. These personal hardships influenced Soane’s later work, imbuing his designs with a poignant sense of reflection and introspection.

Legacy and Influence

Sir John Soane’s legacy lives on in his architectural achievements including Pitzhanger Manor, the Bank of England, the Sir John Soane’s Museum and Dulwich Gallery. His innovative approach to design and his commitment to education have left a lasting impact on the field of architecture. The Royal Academy, where he once studied, continues to honour his legacy through the annual Sir John Soane Lecture series.

Come and visit us and find out more about Soane and his time at Pitzhanger Manor.

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Categories   Pitzhanger Manor Sir John Soane

Tags   Architecture

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All the information you need getting to and enjoying your time at Pitzhanger

History

Pitzhanger Manor, Joseph Gandy,1800. © Sir John Soane’s Museum, London.

Learn about the history of this remarkable house

Pitzhanger Manor in Ealing was the country house of Sir John Soane, one of Britain’s most extraordinary architects

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Conservation Project

Revealing Pitzhanger

In March 2019, Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery reopened to the public for the first time in over three years.

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Membership

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Get free, unlimited entry to Pitzhanger and invitations to exclusive Members events while supporting the work of Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery.

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Contact Us

PITZHANGER MANOR & GALLERY
Ealing Green, London
W5 5EQ
Reception: 020 3985 8888
Venue Hire: 020 3994 0966
Office: 020 3994 0967
pitzhanger@pitzhanger.org.uk

Wednesday - Sunday: 10:00 - 17:00
First Thursday of the month: 10:00 - 20:00
Monday - Tuesday: Closed
Bank Holidays: 10:00 - 17:00

Last admissions one hour before closing

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