The story
Syon was a Bridgettine abbey until the Reformation. It later became the home of the Percy family, Dukes of Northumberland, who still own it. Robert Adam designed some of the house's finest interiors, and Capability Brown landscaped the park.
The Great Conservatory, designed by Charles Fowler and completed in the 1820s, was one of the first large conservatories built of metal and glass.
What to look for
- The Great Conservatory.
- Adam's interiors in Syon House.
- The gardens and lake.
- Views across the Thames to Kew.
Why it's worth seeking out
Syon is one of the last great ducal estates in Greater London, and it still feels like a private country house rather than a museum. Adam's interiors are among his best: the Great Hall, the Anteroom with its gilded columns and coloured marble, and the Long Gallery, designed to make a narrow room feel elegant. The Great Conservatory's curving dome influenced later glasshouses, and the gardens and lake give a sense of space just a few miles from Heathrow. It is an easy and rewarding stop for travellers with time to spare before a flight.
Combine it with
Kew Gardens, Osterley Park and Brentford are nearby.
Visiting tips
The house and gardens have seasonal opening times, so check before visiting.
Getting there
Syon Lane station is a short walk. With Mason & Green, we can drop you at the house. It is close to Heathrow.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns Syon Park?
The Dukes of Northumberland.
Who designed the Great Conservatory?
Charles Fowler.
Is Syon close to Heathrow?
Yes.