Our outing on 21st May was to Tatton Hall and Park in Knutsford. The weather was sunny and warm so perfect for our trip over to Cheshire. On arrival we were met at the car park by a very knowledgeable Guide who was expecting our coach party. After a brief introduction to the house and park he led us through to the courtyard cafe where most of us had a coffee. Despite the forecast the weather stayed fine and we enjoyed the gardens and grounds. The rhododendrons and azaleas being particularly colourful. Most people made their way up to the Japanese Garden before returning to the cafe for lunch.
In the afternoon we expored the Mansion. Although the Egerton family had owned the estate since 1598 they did not live there until the early 18th Century when a house was built. In 1729 Samuel Egerton, a second son so not due to inherit went to Venice to be apprentice to his uncle Joseph Smith. In 1738 Samuel’s brother died so he did inherit the estate. Then in 1758 Joseph Smith died leaving a vast legacy to Samuel. This enabled the Mansion to be built at Tatton and the huge collection of art and fine furnishings kept together. There is currently an exhibition in the Mansion called Beyond the View. This outlines the experience of the extraordinary journey of Samuel Egerton from Cheshire to Venice and his connection to the celebrated artist Canaletto. The highlight of the exhibition being two remarkable Canaletto paintings.
Our next outing is to the Hat Museum and Exhibition at the Plaza Complex in Stockport on August 13th.
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Article provided by Richard Hughes with thanks.
