VISIT TO KENWOOD HOUSE
Date: Friday July 3rd, 2026
On Friday July 3rd our Summer outing took place.15 members visited KENWOOD HOUSE in Highgate. It was a warm, sunny day and the journey by public transport, although taking about an hour and 45 minutes, was straightforward.
The house is run by English Heritage and is free to enter but we paid for a private guide; Keith was charming and full of knowledge about the Adam architecture and the history of its ownership.
We were shown the remarkable art collection which included a Vermeer "The Guitar Player" which can only ever be seen at Kenwood; they do not loan it to other exhibitions. It also included a Rembrandt self-portrait and a copy of the famous portrait of Lady Elizabeth Murray with Dido.
The house tour lasted just over an hour and then the garden Guide, Richard, was ready for us. The grounds are extensive and so a handful of us opted for a very brief section as we had the return journey to make.
Everyone was very cheerful and all the feedback was very positive. I think most of us felt we will return at some point and visit the grounds more fully.
It was lovely to be together enjoying Art in relaxed circumstances and to have the opportunity of getting to know one another better.
Jo Lightfoot (Chair)
KENWOOD HOUSE
On the edge of Hampstead Heath and surrounded by tranquil landscape gardens, Kenwood is one of London’s hidden gems. The breath-taking interiors and stunning world-class art collection, which includes Rembrandt’s ‘Self-Portrait with Two Circles’, are free for everyone to enjoy. With children’s activities, a café to relax in and acres of grounds to stretch your legs, there are treats in store for every visitor.
- See the world-renowned collection of paintings by artists like Vermeer, Rembrandt, Gainsborough, Turner and Constable
- Roam 112 acres of glorious parkland designed by Humphry Repton
- Discover characters from Kenwood’s past including Dido Belle.
- Enjoy family activities in the Housekeeper’s Room