In April, many of our members spent a wonderful day at Chenies Manor House & Garden in Rickmansworth, during their annual Tulip festival. The weather was glorious and the flowers certainly didn’t disappoint.
Chenies is one of England’s finest Tudor House & Gardens. A Grade 1 building, it has a rich and interesting history, with links to royalty over an 800-year timeline.
Since 1165 it has been home to just three main families – the Cheyne, Russell and Macleod-Matthews. John Russell was a loyal servant to among others, Henry VIII and became the 1st Earl of Bedford. In the 1500s Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I visited Chenies, and in 1570 Elizabeth held her privy council meeting there during her month-long stay.
The Macleod-Matthews family restored and brought Chenies back to life in the late 1950s and it remains in the family today, passed down to Charles and his wife Boo, who continue its story.
We were privileged to have been welcomed by Charles Macleod-Matthews who gave us a fascinating history and introduction to the Manor, its grounds and restoration. Our guided tour followed, taking in sumptuous antique furniture, tapestries and highlights of many rooms including the Long room, Dining room, White drawing room, Green bedroom, Stone Parlour, Billiards room and Nursery.
After our tour we enjoyed visiting the Chapel, and the gardens where our senses feasted on the Tulip displays with stunning varieties such as Orange Princess, Black Hero, Muriel, Purple Heart and Negrita. Through the main displays we then found our way into the Herbal & Medicinal Gardens and Stumpery.
Our time at Chenies ended with a well-earned cuppa and delicious homemade cakes.
Thanks to our knowledgeable guides, Charles Macleod-Matthews and everyone at Chenies for a marvellous visit to a truly beautiful House.