See Devastation Of Clandon Park Fire As Gardens Are Re-opened

Published on: 9 Sep, 2015
Updated on: 9 Sep, 2015

For six Saturdays, from September 12 to October 17, the National Trust will be welcoming visitors to the gardens at Clandon Park.

The public opening will be the first time since the devastating fire on April 29.

Clandon Park alight on April 29, 2015.

The grade I listed mansion is currently undergoing a major salvage operation and remains inaccessible. However, on the open days visitors will be able to have a unique view of the outside of the building and to learn more about the work that the National Trust is undertaking there.

Entry to the site on the first day (September 12) will be free as part of the national Heritage Open Days scheme.

Marquees will have displays and films telling the story of Clandon before the fire, the salvage operation on the night of the fire and about the work currently taking place.

Alex Bush, the general manager of Clandon Park and Hatchlands Park, said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming visitors back to the gardens.

“We know, from the messages of support we have received, that Clandon is a special place for many people and we wanted to offer them the chance to spend some quiet time, in the gardens, near the house and to share their memories with us.

“Now largely clear of high-level debris, the view of the house from the gardens is a haunting and breath-taking sight. With the mansion about to be covered completely in scaffolding, most likely for several years, this is the last chance to see the exterior shell of the house before this happens.”

Admittance is strictly by pre-booked timed tickets only, including for National Trust members and for those visiting on September 12. On the remaining open days there will be an entry charge for non-National Trust members of £5.50 (£2.80 children).

To book tickets, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/clandon-park or call 0844 249 1895.

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