Ickworth House, Suffolk

We went to this famous National Trust House today which is close to Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk. We had lunch at Risby just off the A14 at Lizzy's Cafe, which was excellent and the cafe adjoins a large barn that is full of antiques and collectibles (3 new pieces of Crested China I'm afraid!). The owners and the girls working there were extremely friendly.

Ickworth House that we visited after (the food there is expensive and a bit too Gordon Blow for us!!) was built in the 18th Century for the Hervey Family who held the title of Marquess Of Bristol. The unique Rotunda is vast and visitors can see the servant's quarters, and heating and lighting installations as well as all the splendid rooms in the house above. The gardens are formal and the whole stands in a big park with many old trees. The church in the grounds has been rescued from dereliction and is now open to visitors. The house contains many interesting paintings. The is a fine picture painted by the 18th Century French artist, Madame Vigee Le Brun who painted at the Court of Louis XVI and who painted Marie Antoinette. The Hervey family went on The Grand Tour and became acquainted with her and she painted two portraits which hang in the house. I first discovered her work by seeing a painting - another self-portrait - at the National Gallery in London and I have wanted to learn more about her and work ever since. Clearly a lady of some beauty, even allowing for artistic licence!!!, she produced superb work at a time when most artists were male.