Belton House, Lincolnshire - Claire Cavendish

Begun for Sir John Brownlow in 1685, Belton was designed to impress. Across its 300-year history, each generation of the family left its creative mark. The work of leading designers, artists and craftsmen is evidenced in the house; from Grinling Gibbons carvings and Edward Goudge plasterwork to one of the most significant historic silver collections in the country and the second largest library held by the National Trust. The quality of its collections, its setting in 36 acres of formal gardens and 1300 acres of deer park mean that Belton House is regarded as the most complete example of an English country house. This enlightening guide focuses on the family members who shaped the Belton you see today, highlights the superb collections in the mansion and explores the changing face of the park and gardens.