Background

Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection

Explore a stunning Georgian villa housing the Wernher Collection, a world-class display of medieval and Renaissance art on the edge of Greenwich Park.

4.4

Ranger's House is an elegant early 18th-century Georgian villa located on the edge of Greenwich Park, London. It houses the remarkable Wernher Collection, showcasing nearly 700 works of art including medieval and Renaissance paintings, ivories, jewellery, and fine decorative arts amassed by diamond magnate Sir Julius Wernher. The house’s classical Palladian architecture and tranquil rose garden complement this world-class collection, offering visitors a unique glimpse into European art and aristocratic history.

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
  • Environment icon Mixed
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Book guided tours in advance as entry is by guided tour only and tours last about 1.5 hours.
  • Photography is not allowed inside the house, but you can take photos in the gardens and exterior.
  • Visit during spring to enjoy the cherry blossoms and in summer for the rose garden in full bloom.
  • Use the detailed guidebooks and room cards to learn about the unique artworks and their history.
  • Combine your visit with a walk in Greenwich Park and explore nearby historic Greenwich attractions.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Cutty Sark station, then walk approximately 15 minutes through Greenwich Park to Ranger's House. The DLR runs frequently with tickets costing around £3-£5 depending on your starting zone.

  • Bus

    Bus routes 129, 177, or 180 serve the Chesterfield Walk area near Ranger's House. Buses run every 10-20 minutes with a journey time of 20-30 minutes from central Greenwich. Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for fares around £1.65.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    A taxi or rideshare from central Greenwich to Ranger's House takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £8-£15. Note that parking near the house is limited.

  • Walking

    For those staying nearby, a pleasant 20-30 minute walk through Greenwich Park leads to Ranger's House. The terrain is mostly flat but includes some gentle slopes and paved paths, suitable for most walkers.

Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

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

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection

Architectural Elegance Rooted in History

Ranger's House, built around 1722-23 for Vice-Admiral Francis Hosier, is a distinguished Georgian villa designed in the Palladian style, characterized by its red brick façade and classical symmetry. Originally a private residence with commanding views and easy access to London, it later became the official home of the Ranger of Greenwich Park during the 19th century. The house has undergone restorations and additions over the centuries, preserving its stately charm and historical significance as a residence for aristocrats and royals, including the 4th Earl of Chesterfield and Princess Sophia Matilda.

The Wernher Collection: A Treasure Trove of Art

Since 1986, Ranger's House has been home to the Wernher Collection, one of Europe's greatest private art collections assembled by Sir Julius Wernher, a German-born diamond magnate. The collection comprises nearly 700 objects displayed across twelve elegantly panelled rooms. It includes a dazzling array of medieval and Renaissance artworks such as religious paintings, Dutch Old Masters, finely carved Gothic ivories, Renaissance bronzes, French tapestries, exquisite jewellery, and Sèvres porcelain. Wernher’s passion for the ‘splendidly ugly’ is evident in the collection’s unique pieces, which showcase exceptional craftsmanship and unusual motifs.

Immersive Visitor Experience and Interior Ambience

Visitors explore the collection through guided tours that reveal the stories behind the artworks and the house’s history. The interiors retain original Georgian features, providing a fitting backdrop for the collection’s grandeur. Each room is thoughtfully curated to evoke the display style of Wernher’s original London and Bedfordshire homes. While photography inside is not permitted, detailed guidebooks and informative displays enrich the experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the artistry and historical context of the collection in a serene and refined setting.

Gardens and Setting at Greenwich Park

Set on the fringe of the expansive Greenwich Park, Ranger's House is surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens, including a rose garden laid out in the 1960s. The grounds offer a peaceful retreat with seasonal highlights such as cherry blossoms in spring. The Meridian Line passes through the property, adding an intriguing geographical landmark. The location combines cultural heritage with the natural beauty of one of London’s most historic green spaces, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Legacy and Cultural Significance

Ranger's House stands as a testament to London’s rich maritime, aristocratic, and artistic heritage. Though Sir Julius Wernher never lived in the house, the partnership with English Heritage has ensured that his extraordinary collection remains accessible in a setting befitting its importance. The house’s role as the Ranger’s residence and its later cultural reinvention, including its appearance as the Bridgerton family home in popular media, highlight its enduring place in London’s historical and contemporary landscape.

Practical Details for Visitors

Entry to Ranger's House is by guided tour only, typically lasting around 1.5 hours. The house offers facilities such as a small shop and restrooms, though no refreshments are sold on-site. Accessibility is supported with information available for visitors with mobility needs, and guide dogs are permitted. The house is temporarily closed at times, so checking current opening status before visiting is recommended. The site’s location near Greenwich Park makes it an ideal cultural stop combined with outdoor exploration in London.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection

Popular Hotels near Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection

Select Currency