29.06.2023, 11:00 A.M.

The IGS London Chapter have set up what should be a very special midsummer day out: an exquisite house on the Somerset-Dorset border, little known, with fine gardens and very conveniently near an excellent local restaurant. Neither house nor garden are open in the usual way.

Ven House is a handsome house of c1725 by local architect Nathaniel Ireson (best known for his work at Stourhead nearby), with later work by Decimus Burton in the 1830s. Pevsner describes the interior as “planned for display” so it is fortunate that Ven is now the home of Mike Fisher, an architectural and interior designer, who has decorated and furnished the house superbly, blending the best of period and modern elements.

The visit will start at 11am. After touring the house with the owner there will be a break for a leisurely lunch. Ven is very near renowned restaurant The Clockspire, highly recommended by local foodies. IGS London will book tables for members who want to eat there: at own cost – set menus from £26 or a la carte. We return to The Ven for a tour of the garden with the gardener. The tour finish with a cream tea, and the group will leave c4.30pm.

Travel: Directions will be provided for members coming by car. Ven is a short taxi ride from Sherborne (3 miles) which is c2 hours by train from London. The recommended trains are the 8.20 from Waterloo, returning by the 17.36. There are currently good value tickets on these trains (advance or semi-flex return on South West Trains). Taxis will be coordinated from Sherborne for members coming by train.

Cost £55 (members) or £65 (non-members). Guests are welcome

Either by bank transfer:

Pay to

Irish Georgian Society London
Bank: Nat West
Sort code: 60-05-14
Account number: 18252672
Reference: your name

Please also notify Tina Graham at graham302@btinternet.com with your name and the name of any guests. Please also say if you’d like to be booked in for lunch, and whether you plan to travel by car or train.

Or by cheque

Cheque payable to Irish Georgian Society London.
Send to John Barber, 21 Booths Court, Poplar Drive, Hutton, Brentwood CM13 1YY
Please include your contact details and the name of any guests. Please also say if you’d like to be booked in for lunch, and whether you plan to travel by car or train.

*Any queries: to Tina Graham on 07591 665502*