Inside Anglesey Abbey - The Life of a Collector

I recently paid a visit to the beautiful Anglesey Abbey. It is quite different from other National Trust properties as it has been preserved as a home which was a condition when the last owner, Lord Fairhaven, bequeathed it. This means that the house gives a startling insight into the life and personality of the half American aristocrat who bought the Abbey in 1926. 

Lord Fairhaven was an avid collector of treasures from around the world. Here a few of the items that stood out for me:

Venetian 16th century metal and ceramic hanging. Such an unusual object, I am amazed it has lasted for so long.

Exquisite raised beadwork on an antique fire screen.

Painted mirror headboard and beautiful printed bedding to complement it.

Art Deco travel clock. Such a simple design, but ever so striking.

I always love a sunburst clock and this one, with its pendulum design, is certainly the most impressive I've seen.

As you walk around the house, you feel like you gradually get to know the personality of Lord Fairhaven. 

This charming sketch on his desk gives you an insight into his sense of humourous observation. 

And here, a peak into his wardrobe gives you a chance to picture him getting ready for his many social engagements and outdoor pursuits. Aren't those 1930s correspondent shoes so iconic of the era (just like from the intro of Boardwalk Empire!). 

And in his bedroom notice the care he takes to keep his shoes in shape...

... but when it comes to his slippers hiding under a chair, you can see he wasn't so fastidious all the time! 

You can also tell he was a modern minded man by the amount of bathrooms fitted in the house, unusual for the 1930s. 

If I had to choose my favourite piece from the house, it would be this curtain fabric hanging in one of the bathrooms. Not the most splendid or extravagant item, but such a striking novelty fabric and so evocative of an era gone by. 

Next year they've got plans to open up more of the Domestic Wing, and are restoring below stairs back to the 1960s. You can read more about this exciting project on the Cambridge News. Lino, retro kitchenalia and colourful cookware - sounds right up our street! 

The house is still open for a couple more weeks if you fancy having a wander in its splendour. The gardens too are renowned for being spectacular in the winter. Visit the National Trust website for more information and, of course, have a fabulous time if you do go! 

Sophie x