Melbury House has been
the seat of the Strangways family of Dorset since
the estate was sold in 1500 by William Bruning to Henry Strangways. The present house was rebuilt after 1546
by his son, Sir Giles Strangways, using Ham stone from
a quarry nine miles away. It was altered and extended in 1692 by
Thomas Strangways. The house has remained
in the same family ever since.
We will be given a guided
tour through the grounds, including the church (10:30am arrival for 11:00am
tour).
We are a conservation charity working to protect the county's many historic parks and gardens for future generations.
We work with garden owners and local and national bodies to highlight, protect and encourage the conservation and restoration of designed landscapes, ranging from stately homes to public parks, cottage gardens to cemeteries. Principally funded by over 500 members, we run visits, lectures and events where members can share their interest and knowledge in a sociable atmosphere.
Through its research and recording programme, the Trust undertakes and supports research on sites of historic interest, including sites that the Trust has rediscovered, as well as on other related topics. We share knowledge through our Journal and also seek to inspire the gardeners of the future through imaginative projects with schools.