Looking over the National Trust website, I was planning where I should go in the future. Arlington Court was on my list, but even though it is about eighty miles away is a two hour drive. Whilst planning I also saw that Arlington Court had EV chargers, which made planning the trip so much easier.
Though I enjoy visiting National Trust properties, I did have another reason for visiting Arlington Court. Checking the Arlington Court page on the National Trust website they talked about a painting of two of the Chichester family who lived there, which was painted in 1849. Reading the description I realised that Caroline Chichester was my great great great aunt, she had been married to my great great great uncle.
Went to reception and got my card scanned. I then headed to the house. Upon my arrival at the house I was given a warm welcome and I asked about the painting.
I was taken to the room with the painting, though mentioned on the webs page, I was expecting a small painting, it was much bigger, 100 x 84 inches. It’s a fascinating painting which dominates the room it is in.
Had some lovely conversations with various volunteers and staff about my uncle and his connection to the house. After chatting for a while I went to explore the rest of the house. It is a lovely house and hasn’t been changed much since it (and the contents) was given to the National Trust in 1945.
Arlington Court
Intriguing Regency house and impressive collection of horse-drawn vehicles, set in a picturesque garden.
Current saving £310.55
One adult £18
Parking £5.20
Total saving £23.20
Cumulative saving £429.75
Membership cost £96
Net cumulative saving £333.75
After exploring the house, I headed to the Kitchen Cafe for some refreshment. It was a beautiful hot day, so I had a single espresso, iced water and a cheese scone. It was a nice scone, but I have had lots of cheese scones at various National Trust properties over the years. As I said it was a nice scone, but it wasn’t one of the best I’ve had, it was a little dry compared to others I’ve had. Not sure if that was the scone or possible the weather.
After finishing my refreshments, I headed to the Carriages Museum. This was quite fascinating, showcasing a range of different carriages that were used in houses like Arlington Court.
Headed back to the shop, bought a tea towel as one does.
I drove to Arlington Court going down the M5 and then taking the A361 Barnstaple Road. This is longer from a distance perspective, but is quicker. Coming home though, I took the shorter distance route, on the A39, which though takes longer, is a lot more scenic, and I had planned a couple of stops on the way as well.
