Beningbrough Hall, York, North Yorkshire
National Trust
An impressive early 18th-century brick mansion in landscaped grounds, Beningbrough Hall was built as a family home by York landowner, John Bourchier III. It is now home to the National Portrait Gallery’s 18th-century collection, which complements its fine Baroque interior.
The redisplayed Victorian Laundry and service buildings illustrate the behind the scenes workings of a country house. The Hall and Gardens are now in the care of the National Trust.
Beningbrough Hall, Beningbrough, York, YO30 1DD
Visitor Information: 01904 472027
Duty Calls: Beningbrough Hall in Time of War
The focus of the Duty Calls exhibition at Beningbrough was the Hall’s requisitioning and occupation by RAF airmen during the Second World War. The relationship between the Hall’s owner, Lady Chesterfield, its new occupants and the local community was poignantly illustrated by letters, diaries, sketches and photographs, many penned by the airmen themselves. These were displayed as part of an exhibition and trail through the Hall, which was supported by a display of WWII portraiture on loan from the National Portrait Gallery. The project also fostered relationships with local service personnel and the Canadian Air Force.
Houses
