Dashwood Mausoleum: A Historic Landmark Overlooking West Wycombe
Historic 18th-century mausoleum with panoramic Chiltern Hills views, linked to Sir Francis Dashwood and the legendary Hellfire Club.
The Dashwood Mausoleum, perched atop West Wycombe Hill, is a striking 18th-century hexagonal monument built by Sir Francis Dashwood. Constructed of Portland stone and flint, it houses the ashes of the Dashwood family and offers panoramic views across the Chiltern Hills. Adjacent to St Lawrence’s Church with its iconic golden ball-topped tower, the mausoleum is steeped in history linked to the notorious Hellfire Club and Georgian-era architecture.
A brief summary to Dashwood Mausoleum
- 44 Church Ln, High Wycombe, West Wycombe, HP14 3AH, GB
- +441494533739
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 11 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes for the steep uphill walk to the mausoleum; the terrain can be uneven.
- Bring a camera to capture the striking architecture and panoramic views from the hilltop.
- Visit nearby Hellfire Caves and West Wycombe village to enrich your historical experience.
- Note there are no public restrooms on site, so plan accordingly before your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car
Driving from High Wycombe town center takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Parking is available near the Church of St Lawrence, but spaces are limited and the final approach involves a steep uphill walk. No parking directly at the mausoleum.
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Bus
Local bus services connect High Wycombe to West Wycombe village with a journey time of around 20-30 minutes. From the village, expect a 15-20 minute steep walk uphill to the mausoleum. Bus frequency varies, so check schedules in advance.
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Walking
For those staying in West Wycombe village, the mausoleum is accessible by a steep 15-20 minute walk uphill on uneven terrain. Suitable for visitors with moderate fitness; not wheelchair accessible.
Dashwood Mausoleum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Dashwood Mausoleum
An Architectural Tribute Rooted in Georgian Grandeur
The Dashwood Mausoleum was constructed in 1765 by Sir Francis Dashwood, an influential 18th-century politician and founder of the infamous Hellfire Club. Inspired by classical architecture observed during his Grand Tour of Italy and Greece, the mausoleum’s design draws heavily from the Arch of Constantine in Rome. This open-top hexagonal structure, built from Portland stone and flint, features a sequence of arches and rectangular recesses, some sealed and others gated, which house memorial slabs, urns, and busts dedicated to the Dashwood family and close friends. At its center stands a marble urn on a pedestal, sheltered by four columns, commemorating Lady le Despencer, Sir Francis’s wife.Historical Significance and Family Legacy
The mausoleum serves as the final resting place for members of the Dashwood family, including urns containing ashes and notable memorials such as the urn holding the heart of Paul Whitehead, a poet and Hellfire Club associate. The mausoleum was built on the site of an Iron Age hill fort, linking it to ancient local history. Sir Francis Dashwood’s legacy extends beyond the mausoleum; he also rebuilt the nearby Church of St Lawrence, adding the famous golden ball atop its tower, which became a symbol of the estate and a venue for his notorious social gatherings.Setting and Surrounding Landscape
Situated on the summit of West Wycombe Hill, the mausoleum commands breathtaking views over the Chiltern Hills and the town of High Wycombe. The hilltop location offers visitors a scenic vantage point, framed by the historic church tower behind it. The mausoleum is surrounded by a graveyard and woodland, providing a tranquil yet atmospheric setting. The area’s natural beauty and historical ambiance make it a favored spot for leisurely strolls, photography, and contemplation.Connection to the Hellfire Club and Local Folklore
Sir Francis Dashwood’s Hellfire Club, notorious for its secretive meetings involving high society figures, once convened in the nearby Hellfire Caves carved beneath the hill. The mausoleum and the caves together evoke the mystique and scandal associated with the club’s activities, blending history with legend. Stories of ghostly apparitions, including that of Paul Whitehead, add an eerie dimension to the site’s cultural narrative.Preservation and Visitor Experience
Despite its exposed hilltop location, the mausoleum remains in good condition thanks to restoration efforts, including significant repairs in the mid-20th century. Access involves a steep walk uphill, but the effort is rewarded by the impressive architecture and sweeping vistas. While there are no public toilets on site, the mausoleum’s free access and proximity to other attractions like the Hellfire Caves and West Wycombe village make it an appealing destination for a half-day excursion.Architectural Details and Symbolism
The mausoleum’s design incorporates classical elements such as arches, columns, and open niches, symbolizing both reverence and openness. The golden ball atop St Lawrence’s Church, visible behind the mausoleum, was inspired by Venetian customs buildings and reflects Sir Francis Dashwood’s fascination with European grandeur. This combination of architectural styles and symbolic features underscores the mausoleum’s role as a monument not only to family but also to an era of enlightened yet secretive social and political life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
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For the view chaser and sunset hunter
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For the social media creator & influencer
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For how adventurous you want the journey to be
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Location Audience
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