…and Gothic fantasies within a Gothic fantasy.

Horace Walpole’s 1764 novel “The Castle of Otrantoâ€� is claimed to be the first Gothic novel and may well be the first horror novel. Walpole’s home, Strawberry Hill House, (Waldegrave Road, Strawberry Hill, Twickenham, London) was in his possession at the time of its writing. Walpole directed the major changes between 1747 and 1792 transforming it into ‘a little Gothic castle’ and, possibly, his dream of Castle Otranto. Later Strawberry Hill Station was built nearby because the political luminaries of the 1870’s were regular visitors to the house.

So, for horror fans and Black Static readers, there is enough history that the house should be preserved. The Heritage Lottery Fund has now confirmed a £4.6 million grant to the Strawberry Hill Restoration Project. Adding this to grants from other sources, US patrons and individuals have also contributed; means that another £500,000 in donations or pledges will ensure the restoration goes ahead.

Many SF, fantasy and horror fans will know Anne Sudworth from Eastercons, Fantasycon, worldcons and many other gatherings where her art is on show. As part of the drive for this last half million sterling an exhibition of Anne’s art will be held at Strawberry Hill House from 23rd of March to 18th of May 2008. (So it’s on now). Anne’s work is often described as Gothic and its strange, haunting landscapes, particularly her moonlit scenes, have influenced many. Anne is a well known figure on the Goth scene and her gothic lifestyle has, in some ways, become an extension of her art.

So why not look in?
For opening times: call 0208 8922804.

Strawberry Hill House, 268 Waldegrave Road, Strawberry Hill, Twickenham, London, TW1 4SX.

Friends of Strawberry Hill is a charity helping with the restoration.

More about the house

Video; The BBC Restoration programme featured Strawberry Hill House.

Tags: Anne Sudworth • Art • Castle Otranto • Gothic horror