Ep 4. Boughton House

An American Aristocrat's Guide to Great Estates is a delightful docuseries in which the charming and charismatic Julie Montagu takes viewers on a tour of some of Britain's most illustrious and historic estates. In season 1 episode 4, Montagu visits Boughton House, one of the country's finest stately homes.

Located in Northamptonshire, Boughton House has been the home of the Montagu family for nearly 500 years. The house was built in the 17th century by Sir Edward Montagu, a prominent politician and courtier who was a close friend of King Charles II. The house has remained in the Montagu family ever since, and today it is owned by the current Lord Montagu.

Montagu begins her tour of Boughton House in the magnificent Great Hall. This grand room is decorated with beautiful plasterwork and houses a collection of stunning portraits of the Montagu family. Montagu explains that the hall was originally designed to impress visitors and to create a sense of grandeur and importance.

Next, Montagu visits the saloon, another impressive room in the house. This room features intricate woodwork and a highly decorative ceiling that gives the room a bright and airy feel. Montagu explains that the saloon was used as a place for the family to entertain guests and to host parties and events.

Montagu then takes viewers on a tour of some of the house's stunning bedrooms. The bedrooms at Boughton House are some of the most impressive and well-preserved examples of 17th-century interiors in the country. Montagu explains that the rooms were designed to be comfortable and luxurious, with plenty of natural light and beautiful views.

One of the highlights of Montagu's tour of Boughton House is the chapel. This beautiful space is still used for worship by the Montagu family and their guests. Montagu explains that the chapel contains some of the finest examples of Jacobean woodwork in the country and that it is a testament to the Montagu family's commitment to their faith.

Finally, Montagu takes viewers on a tour of the gardens at Boughton House. The gardens are just as impressive as the house itself and feature a range of stunning features, including beautiful fountains, impressive topiary, and an ornamental lake. Montagu explains that the gardens were originally designed by the famous landscaper Capability Brown and that they have been carefully maintained and restored over the years to ensure that they remain one of the country's most beautiful.

Overall, season 1 episode 4 of An American Aristocrat's Guide to Great Estates is a fascinating and enjoyable tour of one of Britain's most impressive stately homes. Montagu is a knowledgeable and engaging guide, providing viewers with a unique insight into the history and culture of this remarkable property. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who loves to marvel at incredible homes, this episode is sure to be a treat.