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Osterley Park in Isleworth glows with a Diwali Marigold Festival this November

Osterley Park in Isleworth glows with a Diwali Marigold Festival this November
Illustrative image: Pexels

On the edge of west London lies one of the capital's grandest days out. Osterley Park and House, cared for by the National Trust, combines a Georgian mansion, acres of parkland, a lake and restored gardens, and this autumn it has a programme of seasonal events to enjoy.

The estate has a long history. Sir Thomas Gresham, founder of the Royal Exchange, bought the manor in 1562 and built a brick manor house, completed in 1576, which Elizabeth I visited. By the early 18th century it had been acquired by Sir Francis Child, founder of Child's Bank.

The house as we see it today owes much to Robert Adam, who remodelled it between 1761 and 1765 for Francis and Robert Child. The National Trust describes it as "one of the finest and most complete by Robert Adam still in existence", with highlights including the entrance hall and the Etruscan dressing room. Adam also designed furniture for the house, including the state bed, and the Garden House of 1780.

Outside, there are acres of parkland, a lake and restored 18th century formal gardens, along with a Tudor walled garden. The park is listed Grade II* and the house Grade I, and the house was restored between 2018 and 2021.

This season brings plenty to see. A family Halloween trail runs until 1 November, followed by a Marigold Festival for Diwali from 7 to 29 November. In December, wreath making workshops run from 10 to 20 December. An exhibition, Journeys, has shown textiles from the Karun Thakar Collection.

There are good facilities for a full day out, including the Stables Café, a shop, a second hand bookshop, an ice cream parlour and cycle hire. Many visitors also enjoy the woodland and footpaths, and a weekly parkrun takes place in the park.

The house is open from Wednesday to Sunday, with rooms depending on the season and volunteer availability, and tickets can be collected from the Garden Kiosk with no need to book ahead. National Trust members go free.

Osterley Park and House is on Jersey Road, Isleworth, TW7 4RB, close to Osterley station. For opening times and events, visit the National Trust website.

Find out more: nationaltrust.org.uk