Reading, a large town in Britain is situated at the convergence of the River Kennet and the River Thames, in the county of Berkshire, about 40 miles west of London. In the medieval era Reading was a significant national centre, the location of a major monastery with key royal connections. Presently it remains a centre of business, primarily in the insurance and information technology sectors. Reading also contains two major universities, a numerous student population and hosts one of the countrys largest music fiestas.
Basildon Park is one of the notable historical attractions in the area. This Palladian style mansion was constructed for Sir Francis Sykes in the 18th century. An elegantly designed building in Bath stone, it consists of a main middle block joined to external sections through single storey links. Sykes had made a fortune in India, where he had held several significant posts.
Basildon was inherited by Sir Francis grandson, who unfortunately was compelled to sell the property due to debts he had inherited to James Morrison MP, one of the wealthiest of Victorian merchants. He was a noted art connoisseur and considered Basildon to be an ideal setting in which to store and display his art treasures. Architect John Papworth made some adjustments to the mansion, after which Morrisons family took charge of the property.
After the Morrisons demise Basildon often remained empty. It was used as a convalescent nursing home for Berkshire soldiers during World War I, but later fell into a state of neglect. Eventually the property fell into the hands of George Ferdinando, an American who planned to take the mansion to pieces and reassemble it in the United States. This plan was never realized, but some of the decorative elements of the mansion may be seen at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel.
The property was finally purchased by Lord and Lady Iliffe, who commenced restoring the mansion to its present magnificence, installing valuable furniture and fine works of art. The grounds of the property are currently being restored to their former glory.
For the traveller in search of a
hotel in Reading, there is no better choice than the Copthorne Hotel Reading. One of the best
hotel Reading offers, the Copthorne Hotel Reading is a charming establishment located in the pristine countryside, accessible from all directions and ideally positioned to experience the local attractions.
