The Vyne dates from the early 16th century when it was built by William Sandys, a gentleman who served Henry VIII for over 30 years, later being rewarded as Lord Sandys of The Vyne and becoming Lord Chamberlain.
In 1643 Chaloner Chute bought the house and made many tasteful alterations. During the 17th century a classical portico by John Webb was added to the house; the first of its kind in England.
Lord Sandys Tudor chapel remains largely unaltered, and is one of the finest private chapels in England, featuring some superb stained glass windows.
There are foundations in this beautiful lawn of earlier houses that were larger than the present house. It is believed that the Romans when in occupation of this area planted their first vineyards in an area behind the building you see here, hence the name of the property.
The Summerhouse is possibly the earliest domed garden building in England.
The Edwardian style Summerhose Garden provides a colourful show of perennials and annuals.
The formal gardens and lawns provide a picturesque and tranquil setting for the fine Tudor House. To the left of the brick summerhouse the "Hundred Guinea Oak' is thought to be well over 500 years old.
Inside The Vyne, a Palladian style staircase in plaster and carved wood is of a particularly high standard; introduced to the house in around 1765 by John Chute. Much of the original panelling remains in the house along with the fine furniture, family portraits, tapestries and porcelain, assembled over 300 years.
our first port of call on the day.
PANTM's next excursion is to UPPARK on October 4th. This will be our last excursion for the year, roll on 2002.