Regency Britain was an era of enlightenment. The time of the Grand Tour where young gentlemen would travel The Continent, and return from abroad with a range of experiences and understanding of other cultures before settling down, bringing with them the fashions and knowledge of a wider Europe. Young ladies were educated in the arts of literature and music with an appreciation of elegance. Into this mix add the novels of Jane Austen and the like who relished in sending up society in a tongue in cheek fashion.

Still today, we can see remnants of this period and its influence on Britain. The early 18th century was a time of great wealth in Britain, and fabulous country houses were built to showcase the elegant set. Capability Brown designed more than 170 landscapes throughout the country, and many of these grand estates can be visited today. 

Blenheim Palace outside Oxford is a prime example of a glorious country estate. Walkthrough the extensive grounds and find a garden folly, often replicating ancient Roman structures. Enter the grand house of the Dukes of Marlborough and discover the opulent lifestyle of the wealthy families; still today, this house is owned by the Churchill family and is not always open to the public. Nearby Cliveden has been converted into a Country House hotel where you can stay and experience this other world. 
Bath township is renowned as a pinnacle of the Regency period. This elegant town was named after the Roman baths that have been located here for centuries – in recent years, this complex showcasing naturally occurring springs has been refurbished to its elegant origins, and today you can ‘take the waters in the spa – make sure to book in advance! Wander the cobblestoned heart of town, with its delightful period buildings, shops and afternoon tea houses. If you happen to be there around Christmas, don’t miss Carols in the Abbey. A sanctuary of tranquillity is the Royal Crescent Hotel; this elegant hotel stands proudly on the rise overlooking the town and its occupying original sandstone townhouses. 

Brighton is famously a Regency town – the Brighton Pavilion reflecting the opulence of the Regent and his influence on society. Visit architect Charles Busby’s Regency Townhouse, a Grade I listed building. 

 Walk along the esplanade looking over the English Channel – the pebble beach might not be to your liking, however a wander around ‘the lanes’, an area of cobblestoned streets and alleys, and it’s fun to explore antique shops and tucked-away restaurants. 

Of course, there are two sides to the Regency period – the grand, wealthy families and the rest! In London, this contrast is easily found in the elegant homes around Mayfair to the west of the city and the working districts of East London. Today these dockland areas have become inner-city trendy places to live and now boast some of the most expensive real estate in the world.  

There are so many historic homes to visit in Britain – if you are a member of the Australian National Trust, there is often reciprocity with the National Trust in Britain, allowing free entry to these estates.

Contact Travelling Places P: 075545 1600 
 E: travel@travellingplaces.com.au