Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery hosted a remarkable day of discovery and excitement on 19 May 2024, as over 3,000 people attended the filming of the BBC Antiques Roadshow. The air was filled with a palpable buzz of anticipation as visitors from all around brought their cherished items for assessment—some of great value, others with fascinating family backstories.
Blessed with fabulous weather, Walpole Park and Pitzhanger’s beautiful gardens transformed into a hive of activity, with ten specialist areas where eager attendees queued to meet the Antiques Roadshow specialists. Fiona Bruce, the show’s presenter, and a team of dedicated volunteer stewards welcomed guests who relished hearing the experts’ opinions, as well as relaxing in the gardens to enjoy the delicious food from food stalls. Pitzhanger Honey, made in local hives, proved a popular memento of the day. It marked a special day of community celebration, attended by local MP, Rupa Huq, and Mayor of Ealing, Cllr Hitesh Tailor.
Many guests enjoyed the opportunity to explore the architect Sir John Soane’s historic Pitzhanger Manor and its adjacent gallery, which re-opened to the public after its award-winning conservation project exactly five years ago. We look forward to welcoming the crowds back to see the coming exhibition of Grayson Perry’s popular commentary on British society executed through six large, vibrant tapestries: The Vanity of Small Differences, due to open in Pitzhanger Gallery on 10 July.