Bushy House

In 1663, a grand house arose amidst Bushy Park’s verdant expanse. Bushy House, initially known as Upper Lodge, became a beacon of royal favor and intrigue. Edward Proger, a trusted confidant of King Charles II, commissioned its construction. The cost, a staggering £4,000, reflected the opulence of the era. Proger’s loyalty to the crown during the tumultuous years of exile earned him the prestigious position of Ranger of Bushy Park. The house served as his official residence. Bushy House witnessed a transformation in the early 18th century. George Montagu, 1st Earl of Halifax, acquired the property and embarked on an extensive rebuild. The house then became a stage for prominent figures, including Lord North, the Prime Minister during the American Revolution. Lord North resided at Bushy House from 1771 to 1792, using it as a retreat from the political pressures of London. The house’s royal connections deepened in 1797. King George III granted his son, William, Duke of Clarence, the title of Ranger of Bushy Park. This bestowed upon him the privilege of residing in Bushy House. It was here that William, later King William IV, lived with his mistress, Dorothea Jordan, and their ten children. The house echoed with the laughter and bustle of family life, a stark contrast to the formal atmosphere of the royal court. Even after his accession to the throne, William retained a fondness for Bushy House. A messenger arrived one morning with news of King George IV’s death, informing William he was now king. William’s response was to declare his lifelong wish to sleep with a queen and promptly return to bed. Following William’s death, Bushy House became the official residence of his widow, Queen Adelaide, until her passing in 1849. In 1900, Bushy House embarked on a new chapter in its history. The estate was selected as the site for the National Physical Laboratory (NPL). The ground floor and basement were converted into laboratory spaces. The upper floors continued to serve as accommodation for the laboratory’s directors. Today, Bushy House stands as a testament to its layered past. It houses not only cutting-edge scientific research but also two small museums. These museums showcase historical scientific equipment, offering a glimpse into the advancements that have shaped our modern world. Bushy House continues to evolve. It remains a place of discovery, innovation, and a reminder of the rich tapestry of stories it holds within its walls.