History of Stratfield Saye House

The main part of the house and stable blocks were built around 1630 by Sir William Pitt, Comptroller of the Household to James I.

George Pitt, 1st Baron Rivers, had the red brick faced in stucco, originally painted white, during a programme of extensive work to the house and park in the 18th Century.

The 1st Duke of Wellington acquired the house and estate in 1817, choosing it for its proximity to London and Windsor. He originally planned to pull down the house and build a fabulous ‘Waterloo Palace’ in the north-east of the park. In 1821 the plans were eventually abandoned as being too expensive. Instead, he made additions and improvements to the existing house. The conservatory was added in 1838 and the outer wings in 1846. He also introduced central heating (two of the original radiators can still be seen at the foot of the staircases) and elegantly designed and sound-proofed water-closets in many of the rooms.