image for illustration: Thomas Chambers, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sometimes referred to as ‘The Rockstar of the English Baroque’, Vanbrugh’s architectural work was as bold and daring as his early political activism and risqué plays, reports Vanbrugh300, a year-long festival will explore how he became the most prominent architect of his time.
Vanbrugh300 writes:
VANBRUGH300 celebrates the life and legacy of Sir John Vanbrugh across six of his great houses: Castle Howard, Blenheim Palace, Seaton Delaval Hall, Grimsthorpe Castle, Kimbolton Castle and Stowe House. The programme includes exhibitions and special displays, a series of free public lectures, education initiatives reaching 2,000 primary school children, and dedicated Vanbrugh300 Weekends at each site throughout 2026.
image for illustration: Wehha, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
These celebratory weekends will feature storytelling performances, creative workshops, and hands-on activities for families and community groups – from designing Baroque-inspired buildings to exploring Vanbrugh’s theatrical world. The festival has been made possible thanks to the support of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with additional support from the Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art.
