Historic Buildings

VANBRUGH 300

Sometimes referred to as “The Rockstar of the English Baroque”, Sir John Vanbrugh’s life and achievements will be celebrated in 2026, his tercentenary year. A world-famous English architect, and one of the great dramatists of the Restoration comedy of manners, Vanbrugh’s architectural work was as bold and daring as his early political activism and marriage-themed plays. Today, amongst other achievements, he is seen as a leading figure in exploiting the emotional impact of architecture. Led by the Georgian Group, the project will collaborate with 6 partners: Castle Howard, Blenheim Palace, Seaton Delaval, Grimsthorpe Castle, Kimbolton Castle and Stowe House. Activities at each site will feature schools programmes, tailored exhibitions, volunteer training, adult and community activities, lectures and more, engaging c180,000 visitors and c1,000 remotely, supported by a dedicated website. Sparking enthusiasm and raising awareness, visitors will see how Vanbrugh helped shape the way we see and understand our country today.