Syon House: A Historic Tudor Mansion and Robert Adam’s Architectural Masterpiece
Discover the rich Tudor history, Robert Adam’s neoclassical interiors, and Capability Brown’s sweeping landscapes at Syon House in Brentford.
Syon House, located in Brentford, West London, is a grand Tudor mansion built on the site of the medieval Syon Abbey. Owned by the Percy family since 1594, it features exquisite 18th-century interiors designed by Robert Adam and expansive landscaped grounds by Capability Brown. With a rich history intertwined with English royalty and dramatic events, Syon House offers visitors a unique glimpse into aristocratic life, classical architecture, and serene parkland bordering the Thames.
A brief summary to Syon House
- Syon Park, Brentford, TW8 8JF, GB
- +442085600882
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Wednesdays, Thursdays, or Sundays when the house is open to the public from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
- Explore the expansive parkland and gardens surrounding the house for tranquil walks and wildlife spotting.
- Take time to admire the exquisite Robert Adam interiors, especially the State Dining Room and Long Gallery.
- Check for special exhibitions or events that may be hosted in the house or gardens during your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Rail and Bus Combination
Take a train from London Waterloo to Kew Bridge station (approximately 20 minutes), then board the 237 or 267 bus towards Brentlea Gate bus stop, which is a short walk from Syon House. Total travel time is around 45–60 minutes. Tickets cost about £5–£8 depending on the ticket type.
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London Underground and Bus
Use the District Line to Gunnersbury station, then transfer to bus 237 or 267 towards Brentlea Gate bus stop. The journey takes approximately 50–65 minutes. Single fares range from £4 to £7. Note that buses run at regular intervals but check schedules for weekends.
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Walking from Nearby Stations
From Brentford or Syon Lane railway stations, Syon House is about a 1-mile walk through gentle terrain, taking roughly 20–25 minutes. The route is accessible but not specifically adapted for wheelchairs.
Syon House 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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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Syon House
Origins and Tudor Legacy
Syon House stands on the historic site of Syon Abbey, a wealthy Bridgettine monastery founded in 1415 by Henry V and relocated here in 1431. The abbey was notable for housing both monks and nuns and was one of England’s richest nunneries. Its closure in 1539 during Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries marked a dramatic turning point. The estate briefly became Crown property before Edward Seymour, Duke of Somerset, acquired it and rebuilt the site as a grand Italian Renaissance-style house between 1547 and 1552. The house witnessed significant Tudor history, including Catherine Howard’s imprisonment and Lady Jane Grey’s brief reign, who was offered the crown within its Long Gallery.Architectural Evolution and Robert Adam’s Influence
In the 18th century, Hugh Percy, 1st Duke of Northumberland, commissioned the renowned architect Robert Adam to remodel Syon House’s interiors. Beginning in 1762, Adam introduced neoclassical designs inspired by ancient Greece and Rome, creating some of the finest classical interiors in Britain. His work includes ornate state rooms with Corinthian columns, marble statues, and intricate plaster ceilings. While Adam planned a central rotunda for the courtyard, it was never realized due to cost. The house’s exterior was later clad in Bath stone, and features such as the porte cochere and the Percy Lion atop the east front were added in the 19th century.Gardens and Landscape by Capability Brown
Complementing the architectural grandeur, the landscape designer Lancelot 'Capability' Brown transformed the formal gardens into sweeping English parkland. His design replaced rigid geometric layouts with open vistas, tranquil lakes, and rare tree collections, creating a naturalistic setting that borders the River Thames. The estate’s 200-acre park and 30-acre gardens provide a peaceful retreat with scenic walking paths and abundant wildlife, enhancing the historic house’s majestic presence.Historical Significance and Notable Residents
Syon House has been home to the Percy family since 1594, witnessing centuries of British history. It served as a royal residence, a hospital during both World Wars, and a cultural hub. The house contains portraits of Stuart royalty and the Percy lineage, including works by Sir Peter Lely and Anthony van Dyck. The State Dining Room and Red Drawing Room showcase the family’s rich heritage and artistic patronage. The house also holds connections to North American history through the Percy family’s involvement in colonial affairs.Public Access and Visitor Experience
Opened to the public in 1951, Syon House offers visitors access to three floors of historic interiors, including family rooms and richly decorated state bedrooms. Guided tours provide insights into the house’s history, architecture, and art collections. The Great Conservatory, built in the 1820s, displays exotic plants under a delicate cast-iron and glass structure. The surrounding parkland invites leisurely walks, wildlife spotting, and quiet contemplation in a setting that feels far removed from central London.Modern Enhancements and Conservation
The Percy family continues to maintain and enhance Syon House, including recent additions like a new central courtyard. Conservation efforts preserve the house’s Grade I listed status and its historic gardens. The estate balances public access with private residence, ensuring that Syon House remains a living monument to English heritage and aristocratic culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queen Charlotte's Cottage
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Aparthotel Adagio London Brentford
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Richmond Bridge
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Richmond Hill - Viewing Point
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Church Street Twickenham
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Barmy Arms
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Hammersmith Bridge
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Mr Mathias Winkler
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Freddie Mercury Blue Plaque
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Coombe Conduit
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Queen Victoria Monument
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Leighton House
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The Tower House
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Cannizaro Park
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Пам'ятник Володимир Великий / Monument to Saint Volodomyr the Great
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Unmissable attractions to see
Syon Park
0.1 km
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Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
1.2 km
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Marianne North Gallery
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Boston Manor Park
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Boston Manor House
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Richmond Green
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Richmond Green: A historic Tudor and Georgian urban park offering tranquil green space and rich royal heritage in the heart of Richmond-upon-Thames.
The Musical Museum
1.8 km
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One Paved Court
1.9 km
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Museum of Richmond
2.0 km
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London Museum of Water & Steam
2.0 km
Explore Victorian steam engines and the story of London's water supply at this historic Brentford museum with interactive exhibits and a steam railway.
Richmond Riverside
2.1 km
A peaceful Thames-side haven in Richmond with historic charm, scenic views, and riverside pubs perfect for relaxing strolls and river activities.
The National Archives
2.3 km
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The Poppy Factory
2.4 km
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Terrace Gardens
2.7 km
A serene formal garden on Richmond Hill offering iconic, protected views over the River Thames and seasonal floral beauty.
Chiswick Bridge
3.0 km
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Essential places to dine
La Rosetta Restaurant
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Man vs Food
1.3 km
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A Cena
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The Petersham Restaurant
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Brouge Gastropub
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Le Taj
7.9 km
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Humble Thali
8.1 km
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Il Portico
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The Ladbroke Arms
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A charming gastropub in Notting Hill offering refined British cuisine, standout Sunday roasts, and a welcoming garden terrace.
Fez Mangal Ladbroke Grove
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Core by Clare Smyth
8.6 km
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Osteria Napoletana
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La mia Mamma Notting Hill
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Ci Tua Osteria Romana
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Gold
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Stuff
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The London Heritage
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Octavia Foundation - Kensington
8.1 km
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the Design Museum Shop - High Street Shop
8.1 km
Curated design haven on Kensington High Street: books, homewares, and innovative gifts celebrating creativity from the Design Museum.
the Design Museum Shop
8.2 km
Curated gifts, books and design objects from the Design Museum’s High Street, Atrium and Exhibition shops—where form, craft and everyday use meet.
Oxfam Shop - Kensington High Street
8.4 km
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Paul Smith - Notting Hill
8.5 km
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The Blue Door
8.6 km
Discover stylish clothing and unique hats at The Blue Door, a charming boutique nestled in the lively heart of Notting Hill’s Portobello Road.
Portobello Rd
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Hangout Clothing
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Goldsmith Vintage
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Jovonna Notting Hill Boutique
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Unique Globe Curiosities Gift Shop
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Antique Clothing Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
London Apprentice
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Star & Scorpion
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The Sussex Arms
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The Queen's Head, Cranford
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The Curtains Up
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Green Man
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The M Bar
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The Elgin
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Naked & Famous Bar
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Love
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The White Hart Harlington
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Protected Area
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
