Traditional orangeries are a beautiful way to extend your home, providing an elegant light-filled space where you can enjoy views of your garden all year round, dine, entertain, or simply relax. Some people may use the orangery for a home gym, an office, or an artist’s studio. You can even grow oranges in them!
They are typically a more substantial structure than a conservatory, with more brickwork and a solid roof with a glazed parapet or roof lanterns. This makes them easier to insulate and heat, so they can be included as part of a larger extension to create an open-plan living space. In fact, an orangery is very versatile and will add value to your home.
Orangeries were first built in England during the 17th century, having been inspired by a trend that spread across Europe. They were first developed in Renaissance Italy to cultivate citrus fruits, but as you might expect, the master craftsmen of the era paid just as much attention to the architectural elegance of the glass and stone structures.
Once a preserve of the wealthy, orangeries were often incorporated into the grounds of large stately homes as a hothouse for exotic plants. Over time, the use of orangeries evolved to include spaces for rest and recreation. If you are looking for some inspiration for your own orangery, here are some beautiful examples that you can visit in the UK.
Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire
The large Grade I listed orangery at Blenheim Palace was designed by the architect Sir John Vanbrugh, and it features high arched windows that overlook the immaculate formal gardens. Over the years, the orangery has served as a greenhouse, a place for entertaining, an art gallery, a theatre, and today it is a restaurant.
Last year, the estate management team undertook an ambitious conservation project to reinstate the original slate and timber roof, replacing the existing glazing.
Throughout the autumn, the Orangery restaurant will be serving a series of unique afternoon teas to celebrate the former wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill, who was born at Blenheim Palace 150 years ago.
Holkham Hall, Norfolk
Holkham Hall in Norfolk is considered one of the finest examples of the Palladian revival style of architecture, and it has a fine Grade II listed limestone orangery with full length arched windows. The structure is noted for its elegant proportions and far-reaching views over the surrounding parklands.
A visit to the hall is a rewarding experience, as it is a beautiful building steeped in history and culture, set in peaceful parklands. The orangery today is still in use to host events and exhibitions.
Wrest Park, Bedfordshire
Wrest Park is a stunning 19th mansion that is a blend of French chateau and 18th century English architecture, and it is set in 92 acres of exquisitely maintained formal gardens and grounds. The orangery is a fine garden pavilion with ornate carved stonework, a short distance from the main house.
The elegant building features floor to ceiling windows to provide views over the charming gardens, and today it is a very popular summer wedding venue.
Harewood House, Yorkshire
Described as one of the ‘Treasure Houses’ of England, Harewood House in West Yorkshire is a grand 18th century manor house with one of the finest art collections in the country. There are also over 100 acres of gardens and parklands open to the public. The orangery was designed by Sir Charles Barry, and it is an elegant structure opening onto a terrace.
Harewood House estate is also the location for the set of the long running ITV soap Emmerdale. On selected days of the year, you can visit the set and tour the replica village featuring the familiar landmarks such as The Woolpack, the village church, and Bob’s Cafe.
Syon House, London
Syon House is the London home of the Duke of Northumberland, and it boasts a showstopping Great Conservatory. It’s technically an orangery with a brick and stonework structure, and features a stunning large glass domed ceiling. This is a botanical powerhouse featuring an abundance of exotic plants.
It’s also used as a venue for entertaining, dining and socialising as many conservatories are today, and is available for hire for weddings and private parties.