Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection

Elegant Georgian villa housing the Wernher Collection, a world-class assembly of medieval and Renaissance art beside Greenwich Park.

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Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection

Ranger's House is an elegant early 18th-century Georgian villa located on Chesterfield Walk, London SE10, adjacent to Greenwich Park. It houses the remarkable Wernher Collection, a world-class assembly of nearly 700 artworks including medieval and Renaissance paintings, jewellery, ivories, tapestries, and porcelain amassed by diamond magnate Sir Julius Wernher. The house features beautifully panelled interiors and a tranquil rose garden, offering a unique cultural and historical experience in a serene parkland setting.

A brief summary to Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection

Chesterfield Walk, London, SE10 8QX, GB
+443703331181
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Mid ranged
Mixed
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Book guided tours in advance to secure your preferred time, as entry is often by pre-booked tours.
Photography is not permitted inside the house to protect the artworks, but you can take photos in the rose garden and outside.
Allow 1 to 2 hours to fully appreciate the extensive Wernher Collection and the historic interiors.
Visit in spring to enjoy the nearby avenue of cherry blossoms or summer for the rose garden in full bloom.
Check the English Heritage website for current opening times and any temporary closures before your visit.

Getting There

Public Transport

Take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Cutty Sark station, then walk approximately 15 minutes through Greenwich Park to reach Ranger's House. Total travel time is around 30-40 minutes from central London. Tickets cost about £3-£5 depending on the starting point.
Bus

Bus routes 129 and 386 serve stops near Chesterfield Walk. From central London, expect a journey of 40-50 minutes depending on traffic. Buses run frequently during the day, and a single fare costs around £1.75 with contactless payment.
Taxi or Rideshare

A taxi or rideshare from central London to Ranger's House takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £15-£25. Note that parking near the house is limited.
Walking

If you are staying nearby in Greenwich or Blackheath, a scenic 20-30 minute walk through Greenwich Park leads directly to Ranger's House. The terrain is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors.

Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection location weather suitability

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Discover more about Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection

Architectural Heritage and Historical Significance

Ranger's House is a distinguished Georgian mansion built circa 1722–1723 for Vice-Admiral Francis Hosier, designed in the Palladian style likely by architect John James. Originally a private residence, it later served as the official home of the Ranger of Greenwich Park during the 19th century. The house's red-brick façade and classic Georgian symmetry reflect the elegance of early 18th-century British architecture. Its location on the edge of Greenwich Park provides a scenic backdrop, with the Meridian Line passing through its grounds. The house has undergone restorations and adaptations over the centuries, maintaining its historic charm while accommodating modern conservation needs.

The Wernher Collection: A Treasure Trove of Art and Craftsmanship

Since 2002, Ranger's House has been home to the Wernher Collection, one of the most significant private collections of medieval and Renaissance art in Europe. Amassed by Sir Julius Charles Wernher, a German-born diamond magnate, the collection comprises nearly 700 objects displayed across a dozen panelled rooms. It includes exquisite early religious paintings, Dutch Old Masters, finely carved Gothic ivories, Renaissance bronzes, French tapestries, Sèvres porcelain, and a dazzling array of jewellery and silverware. Wernher’s passion for what he termed the ‘splendidly ugly’—small, unusual, and richly embellished artworks—gives the collection a unique character, revealing the artistry and cultural exchanges of Europe from the medieval period through the 19th century.

Interior Ambience and Visitor Experience

The interiors of Ranger’s House retain their original Georgian features, providing a fitting and elegant setting for the collection. Visitors can explore richly decorated rooms where artworks are displayed as they might have been in the homes of the wealthy elite. Guidebooks and informative cards in each room enhance understanding of the objects’ history and significance. The house is complemented by a tranquil rose garden laid out in the 1960s behind the property, offering a peaceful outdoor space that contrasts with the intricate indoor displays. The location’s proximity to Greenwich Park adds to its appeal, inviting visitors to combine art appreciation with the enjoyment of one of London’s most historic green spaces.

Legacy and Cultural Importance

Ranger's House stands as a testament to the cultural and historical layers of London, bridging naval history, aristocratic residence, and art patronage. Though Sir Julius Wernher never lived in the house, English Heritage’s careful curation reflects how he displayed his collection in his London and Bedfordshire homes, preserving the collector’s vision. The house’s role as a filming location for popular media such as the Netflix series Bridgerton has brought renewed attention to its architectural beauty and cultural significance. Managed by English Heritage since 1986, Ranger’s House continues to safeguard and celebrate a remarkable artistic legacy within an iconic London setting.

Artistic Highlights and Unique Features

Among the collection’s highlights is the "Madonna della Melagrana," attributed to the workshop of Sandro Botticelli, alongside a rich variety of medieval and Renaissance artefacts that showcase the technical mastery and aesthetic values of their periods. The collection’s breadth spans European craftsmanship and decorative arts, including intricate ivories, enamel work, and tapestries depicting scenes from diverse cultures. This diversity illustrates the historical global influences on European art, shaped by expanding trade routes and cultural exchanges. The Wernher Collection is unique for its combination of quality, rarity, and the intimate scale of many objects, making Ranger’s House a distinctive cultural destination.

Practical Information and Accessibility

Ranger’s House offers guided tours that typically last around 1.5 hours, providing in-depth insights into the house’s history and the collection. The venue includes amenities such as restrooms and a small shop, though no refreshments are sold on-site. Photography is prohibited inside to protect the artworks but allowed in the gardens. Accessibility information is available to ensure visitors of varying needs can enjoy the experience. The house is temporarily closed as of the latest update, so checking English Heritage’s official website before planning a visit is recommended. The combination of art, history, and serene surroundings makes Ranger’s House a compelling destination for cultural enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site

0.9 km

Explore Maritime Greenwich, where royal heritage, maritime history, and the birthplace of Greenwich Mean Time converge in a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site

Bellot Memorial Greenwich

1.2 km

A solemn obelisk in Greenwich honoring Lieutenant Joseph René Bellot’s Arctic bravery and sacrifice during the Franklin rescue expeditions.

Trafalgar Tavern

1.3 km

Historic Greenwich riverside pub since 1837, famed for whitebait feasts, naval art, and Thames panoramas—perfect for pints, roasts, and celebrations.

Anchor Iron Wharf

1.4 km

Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.

Greenwich Foot Tunnel North

1.6 km

Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.

St Anne's Church, Limehouse

4.7 km

Discover St Anne's Church, Limehouse—an 18th-century Baroque maritime landmark with rich naval heritage and mysterious architectural features.

Execution Dock

5.1 km

A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.

King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)

5.1 km

Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.

Shadwell Basin

5.1 km

Experience the peaceful beauty of Shadwell Basin, a serene spot in London perfect for relaxation and scenic walks amidst nature's charm.

The Captain Kidd

5.1 km

Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.

Execution Dock House

5.2 km

Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.

Ornamental Canal

5.6 km

Explore the serene Ornamental Canal in London, a picturesque waterway perfect for relaxation, scenic views, and rich history.

International House

5.6 km

Discover the International House in London, a symbol of global unity and vibrant cultural exchange at the heart of the city.

Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park

5.8 km

Discover the serene beauty of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, a unique blend of nature, history, and community nestled in the heart of London.

St Katharine Docks Marina

6.1 km

London's only central marina: historic waterfront elegance where maritime heritage meets modern leisure.

A tranquil riverside garden in Greenwich, framed by the Old Royal Naval College and offering views of the Cutty Sark and Canary Wharf across the Thames.

Essential places to dine

The Prince of Greenwich Pub

0.6 km

A vibrant gastropub in Greenwich blending quirky museum charm, authentic Italian cuisine, and lively jazz in a historic London setting.

The Hill

0.7 km

A vibrant Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant with a cozy garden setting in the heart of Greenwich.

Pho Street

0.9 km

Authentic Vietnamese pho, banh mi, and bubble tea served in a lively Greenwich setting with fresh flavors and warm hospitality.

Bill's Greenwich Restaurant

1.0 km

A cozy British restaurant in Greenwich offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere from breakfast to late dinner.

Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich

1.0 km

Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.

Goddards at Greenwich

1.0 km

Experience authentic British pie and mash at Goddards at Greenwich, a historic eatery serving traditional comfort food in a welcoming setting.

Sefa Restaurant

1.3 km

Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.

The Sail Loft, Greenwich

1.4 km

Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.

Midpoint Restaurant

1.4 km

Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.

Restaurant Story

6.2 km

Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.

La Dame de Pic London

6.7 km

Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.

Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant

6.9 km

Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.

Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant

6.9 km

Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.

14 Hills

7.0 km

Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.

George

7.0 km

Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, where history, hearty ales, and a lively courtyard blend in a timeless pub experience.

A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Ye Olde Rose & Crown Greenwich

0.8 km

Traditional Greenwich pub pouring real ales and pub classics next to the theatre—perfect for families, dogs, and post-show pints in historic surrounds.

The Lost Hour

0.9 km

Greenwich's craft beer epicenter where sports, pub grub, and late-night vibes collide—lose yourself in the fun on High Road.

Kings Arms

0.9 km

Classic Greenwich pub with hearty grub, real ales, dog-friendly beer garden, and riverside vibes—perfect for post-sightseeing pints.

The Gipsy Moth

1.1 km

Historic Greenwich pub with Cutty Sark views, hearty grub, beer garden bliss, and live music vibes—perfect for nautical nostalgia and relaxed revelry.

Mindful Mixology

1.3 km

A compact Greenwich cocktail bar focused on lower-sugar craft drinks, hands-on masterclasses and a calm riverside atmosphere.

Greenwich Town Social Club

1.6 km

Cozy Greenwich social hub for cheap drinks, karaoke nights, and neighborhood camaraderie on Blackwall Lane.

Td 338 Bar

2.5 km

Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.

Drink At Bob's

2.5 km

Lively cocktail bar in Hither Green blending expertly crafted drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe with vegan-friendly options.

All Bar One Greenwich

3.2 km

Elevate your O2 experience at this multi-floor haven of wines, cocktails, and event-night energy—perfect for pre-show feasts and lively toasts amid London's entertainment epicenter.

Eighteen Sky Bar

3.3 km

Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.

The Midnight Apothecary

4.7 km

Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.

Nine Lives

6.5 km

A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.

The Old School Yard

6.7 km

Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.

Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar

6.8 km

A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.

The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3

6.8 km

Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

The Bunker

1.6 km

A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.

The Hatch Club

2.3 km

A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.

The Venue

2.4 km

A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.

American Express Invites Lounge

3.3 km

A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.

(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub

3.4 km

Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!

LA Lounge

3.7 km

London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.

CQ LOUNGE

4.0 km

South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.

Club 701

4.8 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.

E1

5.7 km

Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.

Corsica Studios

7.1 km

Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.

Ministry of Sound

7.3 km

London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.

The Steel Yard

7.4 km

Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.

Phonox

7.9 km

Phonox: Brixton’s cutting-edge nightclub where underground electronic beats meet a vibrant, spacious dancefloor and top-tier sound.

The Hoxton Pony

7.9 km

Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.

Trafik

8.1 km

Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.

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Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection

A brief summary to Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Public Transport

Bus

Taxi or Rideshare

Walking

Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection

Architectural Heritage and Historical Significance

The Wernher Collection: A Treasure Trove of Art and Craftsmanship

Interior Ambience and Visitor Experience

Legacy and Cultural Importance

Artistic Highlights and Unique Features

Practical Information and Accessibility

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site

Bellot Memorial Greenwich

Trafalgar Tavern

Anchor Iron Wharf

Greenwich Foot Tunnel North

St Anne's Church, Limehouse

Execution Dock

King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)

Shadwell Basin

The Captain Kidd

Execution Dock House

Ornamental Canal

International House

Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park

St Katharine Docks Marina

Unmissable attractions to see

Royal Observatory Greenwich

Greenwich Park

The Old Royal Observatory Garden

Prime Meridian

The Fan Museum

Oliver's Jazz Bar

Queen's House

National Maritime Museum Gardens

National Maritime Museum

The Greenwich Vintage Market

St Alfege Church

1 Greenwich Church St

5b Greenwich Market

Greenwich Market

Naval College Gardens

Essential places to dine

The Prince of Greenwich Pub

The Hill

Pho Street

Bill's Greenwich Restaurant

Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich

Goddards at Greenwich

Sefa Restaurant

The Sail Loft, Greenwich

Midpoint Restaurant

Restaurant Story

La Dame de Pic London

Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant

Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant

14 Hills

George

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

La Boutique Vintage

The Junk Shop

Joli Vintage Living

Arc Angel Boutique London

Dragonfly Lifestyle

The Cutty Sark Gift Shop

Rare Books & Curios

Made in Greenwich

Greenwich Gifts Candy Land

Painted hall gift shop