National Trust - Fenton House and Garden

A Window into 17th-Century Merchant Life

Fenton House was constructed circa 1686 by William Eades during a period when Hampstead was developing as a desirable retreat for London’s professional classes. The red-brick house exemplifies the straightforward domestic classicism of the William and Mary period, with architectural features such as Doric pilasters and a pediment framing the original south entrance. Over the centuries, the house changed hands several times, most notably purchased by Philip Fenton, a Baltic merchant, in 1793. His family added the distinctive colonnaded porch and relocated the entrance to the east front, giving the house a subtle Regency elegance.

Preserved Collections and Artistic Treasures

Today, Fenton House serves as a museum of decorative arts, preserving the rich collections bequeathed by its last private owner, Lady Katherine Binning. Visitors can admire an exceptional array of early keyboard instruments, including a virginal dating back to 1540, maintained in playable condition by specialist conservators. The house also displays vibrant ceramics ranging from Chinese Kangxi porcelain to Staffordshire ware, intricate 17th-century needlework depicting biblical and pastoral scenes, and paintings by notable English post-Impressionist artists such as Walter Sickert and Duncan Grant.

A Garden Oasis in Urban London

The walled garden at Fenton House is a horticultural gem, extensive by London standards. It includes formal lawns, herbaceous borders, a sunken rose garden, and a kitchen garden. A highlight is the 300-year-old orchard featuring around 30 heritage varieties of apples and pears, offering seasonal beauty from spring blossom to autumn harvest. The garden’s terraces and lawns provide a peaceful sanctuary, contrasting with the bustling city beyond.

Views and Atmosphere

From the attic-floor balcony, visitors can enjoy one of the highest vantage points in London, with panoramic views stretching over Hampstead and central London. On clear days, St Paul’s Cathedral remains visible amidst the modern skyline, connecting the past and present visually. The house and garden together create a tranquil, almost timeless atmosphere, inviting close appreciation of art, history, and nature.

Legacy and Public Access

Lady Binning’s bequest of Fenton House and her collections to the National Trust in 1952 ensured the preservation of this unique cultural site. Since opening to the public in 1953, the house has remained largely unchanged, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the life and tastes of a bygone era. The National Trust continues to care for the property, hosting musical demonstrations and seasonal garden displays that enrich the visitor experience.

Significance within Hampstead’s Heritage

Fenton House stands as one of Hampstead’s oldest surviving residences and a testament to the area’s evolution from rural retreat to affluent suburb. Its association with merchant families, local conservation efforts, and the National Trust’s stewardship highlights its cultural and historical importance. The house and garden remain a cherished landmark, embodying centuries of architectural, artistic, and horticultural heritage.