Belmont House is a Grade I listed historic house in Kent, and a member of Historic Houses. Read about its history, architecture and gardens, plus how to visit and what's nearby.
About Belmont House
Belmont House stands on a ridge above Faversham, Kent, with views across the North Downs.
The Georgian house was designed by Samuel Wyatt, one of the most progressive architects of the late 18th century, and remains largely unaltered.
Inside, the Harris family's clock collection is reputed to be the finest in private hands in England, built up over five generations.
The estate covers more than 3,000 acres, and the house and gardens open to visitors on set days through a charitable trust.
Read more on WikipediaHistory of Belmont House
Edward Wilks, a storekeeper at the nearby Faversham gunpowder mills, built the original house in 1769. Samuel Wyatt remodelled it from 1789 to 1793, creating the restrained neo-classical style visible today. The Harris family acquired the estate in 1801 and held it for more than two centuries as Lords Harris, serving as soldiers and diplomats across Britain's overseas territories. The present layout of the grounds also dates from this period.
Architecture of Belmont House
Samuel Wyatt, one of the leading neo-classical architects of the late 18th century, gave Belmont its restrained and understated style. The house is considered a largely unspoilt example of his work.
Worth knowing
The house and its collection featured on BBC's Antiques Roadshow. The house holds the Cazabon collection, said to be the finest set of Cazabon paintings in Britain, and an armoury assembled over five generations of the Harris family.
Gardens & grounds at Belmont House
The grounds, laid out in the 1790s, include a walled garden, pinetum and kitchen garden.
Plan your visit to Belmont House
Open April to October on selected days; check official website for specific dates and tour times.
Admission
Free entry to Historic Houses members (show valid membership card)
Places to visit near Belmont House
Faversham Stone Chapel
View Faversham Stone Chapel on heritage mapMaison Dieu
View Maison Dieu on heritage mapSt Mary's Church, Luddenham
View St Mary's Church, Luddenham on heritage mapSt Bartholomew's Church, Goodnestone
View St Bartholomew's Church, Goodnestone on heritage mapHistoric places nearby
Within 5 miles of Belmont House there are 5 historic properties, including 2 historic buildings and 2 churchs, across Churches Conservation Trust, English Heritage and Historic Houses sites.
Within 10 miles of Belmont House there are 8 historic properties, including 3 historic houses, 2 historic buildings and 2 churchs, across Historic Houses, Churches Conservation Trust and English Heritage sites.
Within 20 miles of Belmont House there are 34 historic properties, including 10 churchs, 9 historic buildings and 6 castles, across English Heritage, Churches Conservation Trust and Historic Houses sites.
