Basildon Park

Lower Basildon

Reading

Berkshire  RG8 9NR

This impressive Georgian mansion, surrounded by glorious parkland, was lovingly rescued from almost certain demolition by Lord and Lady Iliffe in the mid 1950s when they restored the elegant interior and scoured the country salvaging 18th-century architectural fixtures and fittings. They then filled their comfortable new home with fine paintings, fabrics and furniture which can still be enjoyed by visitors today. There are way marked trails through the parkland and gardens including a new wildlife area, with a pond and picnic tables ideal for families. An exhibition reveals what went on behind the scenes when the mansion was featured in the recent film adaptation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice.