James Knott

The Stowe House Preservation Trust

Stowe House. Discover the hidden secrets inside...If you had power and riches, how would you use them?In the 18th century, the powerful Temple-Grenville family chose to create an idyllic landscape filled with temples. Amidst these enchanting gardens, they built the most lavish temple of all, Stowe House. This temple was so grand that even Queen Victoria was bewildered by its interiors. Filled with astonishing rooms imitating ancient worlds and classical ruins, the House reflects the flamboyant and colourful characters of its creators. Ceilings and walls decorated with hidden messages and mythology hint at the family's former power and glory. But wealth and power do not last forever. Excessive spending led to bankruptcy. Extravagant parties, royal visits and Italian Grand Tours gave way to scandal, intrigue and eventually abandonment. The richest family in England became the greatest debtors in the world.