1820 Villas in Roehampton: a tour of two of the former aristocratically owned villas, now in academic use

Led by Gilly King, History and Heritage Advisor, University of Roehampton. In the morning we will visit Whitelands College (Parkstead House) which can be described as a tour of ‘Two Histories’: Parkstead House was built for the 2nd Earl of Bessborough by the royal architect William Chambers circa 1760 to house the Earl’s celebrated collection of classical artefacts from Italy, Greece and Turkey. In 1860 the Jesuits purchased Parkstead House, renaming it Manresa House. Whitelands College is the oldest female college in the country and has always attracted important benefactors including John Ruskin, Edward Burne-Jones, William Morris and Kate Greenaway who
bestowed beautiful gifts to the College. Whitelands College moved to Manresa in 2004 and their combined history is fascinating. Lunch
(not included in the ticket price) can be taken at the local King’s Head and in the afternoon we will see Froebel College (The Grove House
Estate). Within the grounds of the charming Georgian Grove House, purchased by The Froebel Institute in 1921, are delightful follies,
a lake, a mausoleum and an ice house, whose stories will be revealed during this walking tour. Meet in Whitelands College reception,
Holybourne Avenue, London SW15 4JD. Rail: Barnes then 72 or 265 bus. There is some parking available on campus. £30 (lunch not
included). Booking required.*