22
July 2026

Visit to Alexander Pope's Grotto and Strawberry Hill House and Gardens

Welcome to The Arts Society Clapham Common
Wednesday, July 22, 2026 - 11:45
21 Cross Deep Twickenham TW1 4QG
Online Event

 

Join us on this all-day private visit to two iconic historic sights along the Thames, created by two famously creative men. 

In the morning we will visit Alexander Pope's Grotto, the last remaining part of his famous villa and gardens, which he built in 1720 on the banks of the river at Twickenham. A mine of minerals gathered from all parts of the world, it is listed 'of outstanding national importance' and loaded with significance in the 18th century search to 'establish man's relationship to nature'. Pope's original villa was demolished in 1808 and has been redeveloped over the succeeding 200 years. 

Please note: access to the Grotto is via stairs and the Grotto floor is uneven. We regret that there is no disabled access. We recommend that you wear flat shoes.

After this visit we will take a short walk to nearby Strawberry Hill House and Gardens.

Created by politician, writer, historian and antiquarian Horace Walpole, this extraordinary house is famous as Britain's finest example of Georgian Gothic Revival architecture. It includes an important collection of paintings and objects. 

You will be able to buy lunch at the cafe at Strawberry Hill or you may prefer to bring a picnic to have outside. After this, you will have time to enjoy the gardens before our private tour of the house, which will start at 3.15pm and finish at 4.45pm.

Altogether, it will be a day packed with fascinating sights to see and enjoy!