When John Vernon died in 1692, his nephew, Thomas, a lawyer, inherited his estate. On the land near Hanbury in Worcester, Thomas built Hanbury Hall and acquired additional lands to make an 8000-acre estate. Opened in 1706, the home became the country estate for the Whig MP and his family. It’s now a National Trust site, and docents are available in several rooms.

The creative touches found in this home are both whimsical and wonderful. You know you’re in for a treat when you see the unusual windows in the faux gatehouses at either side of the entry to the forecourt.

The painted walls and ceilings impressive in their scope —the entire story of Achilles and the tale of the Trojan Horse lines the staircase.

Much of the furniture is still in place, some well used, but all polished. You’ll also find a huge collections of porcelains in glass-doored cabinets throughout the house.

Outside, it’s evident that gardeners have continued to keep up the various gardens on the estate. There’s a parterre, an orchard, a pond, a walled garden, and acres and acres of parkland.

There’s even an orangery filled with orange trees and mushrooms.

While you’ll pass sheep on your way to the front entrance, you’ll probably see cows outside the walled garden.

All in all, this was an excellent way to spend an afternoon in Worcester. We had more stops to make today, so we took our leave of Hanbury Hall and headed straight north. Ta-ta for now.