Syon House: West London's Best-Kept Secret
π° Syon House Let's clear this up first - calling it a "palace" is misleading! This stunning property isn't royal at all, but rather the ancestral home of the Dukes of Northumberland. Held by the Percy family since 1594 (yes, that's over 400 years!), it's currently under the care of the 12th Duke. Don't let the modest exterior fool you - step inside to discover one of London's most lavishly preserved historic interiors. π₯ The Percy Family Saga (Better Than Any TV Drama!) The real star here is the fascinating Percy family history, particularly the 1st Duke, Hugh Percy. Born Hugh Smithson, this clever gentleman married into the Percy name through his wife Lady Elizabeth Seymour (the Percy surname came from her mother's side). But here's the juicy part: β’ While building the family's political power and wealth, Hugh had an affair that produced an illegitimate son, James Smithson β’ That son grew up to be an Oxford-educated genius who invested his inheritance wisely β’ In an ironic twist, James willed his entire fortune to... America! β’ His money founded Washington's Smithsonian museums - though he NEVER visited the US! Talk about leaving a legacy! π Why Visit Today? β’ See the "Red Drawing Room" - considered one of Britain's finest interiors β’ Spot the bullet hole from when Oliver Cromwell's troops occupied the house β’ Wander the Great Conservatory (inspired by Kew Gardens) β’ Discover the private gardens that feel miles from London #LondonLiving #HiddenHistory #HistoricHomes #LondonSecrets #BritishAristocracy #MuseumLovers
