2025 marked a very special milestone for The Friends of Hylands House as we celebrated 30 years of supporting, preserving and promoting one of Essex's most treasured historic estates.
Founded in 1995 following Chelmsford Borough Council's decision to restore Hylands House, The Friends of Hylands House was created by a small group of passionate local residents who believed that this remarkable house and estate deserved a bright future. Three decades later, that dedication remains as strong as ever.
To celebrate our 30th anniversary, members, volunteers, supporters and special guests gathered at Hylands House to reflect on the Friends' achievements and the many people who have contributed their time, expertise and enthusiasm over the years. It was an opportunity not only to look back with pride but also to look forward to the future of Hylands Estate.
Three Decades of Making a Difference
Over the past thirty years, The Friends of Hylands House have played an important role in helping to preserve and enhance Hylands Estate for visitors of all ages.
Through fundraising, volunteering, research and community engagement, the Friends have supported numerous restoration projects, historical initiatives and educational opportunities. Every project, large or small, has shared the same goal: ensuring that Hylands remains a place where people can connect with history, enjoy beautiful surroundings and create lasting memories.
Among the many achievements over the years are:
Venus with the Apple
One of the Friends' earliest major projects was the commissioning of a life-size marble replica of Bertel Thorvaldsen's Venus with the Apple. The original sculpture, once displayed at Hylands House in the early nineteenth century, formed part of the grand interior enjoyed by visitors and distinguished guests.
Today, the replica stands proudly in the Entrance Hall, helping visitors imagine the splendour of the house during its historic heyday.
Restoration of the Stable Clock Tower
In 2006, the Friends undertook the restoration of the Georgian turret clock located on the Stable Block. Working alongside skilled local craftspeople, the project returned the clock and weathervane to their former glory.
During the restoration work, an unexpected piece of history was uncovered: a Second World War air raid siren hidden within the bell tower. Remarkably, it was still in working order and remains a fascinating reminder of the estate's role during wartime.
The Hanbury Memorial Garden
Working in partnership with Chelmsford City Council, the Friends helped restore the beautiful Hanbury Memorial Garden in 2021.
Carefully recreated to reflect the original 1920s design, the garden honours Christine Hanbury's memorial to her husband John and their son Jock. Today it provides a peaceful and reflective space where visitors can pause and enjoy a quieter corner of the estate.
Sharing Hylands' Story
Preserving history is about more than restoring buildings and landscapes. It is also about sharing stories.
In 2021, the Friends supported the publication of Hylands: A Remarkably Elegant Mansion House, providing readers with a detailed exploration of the estate's fascinating 300-year history. Written by historian and Friends committee member Nick Wickenden, the book has become an invaluable resource for anyone interested in learning more about Hylands and the families who shaped its story.
Bringing History to Life
The Friends continue to play a vital role in helping visitors engage with the estate and discover its heritage.
Our volunteers regularly lead guided tours of Hylands House, sharing fascinating stories about former owners, architectural features and significant moments from the estate's past.
We also manage the much-loved Friends Bookshop in the Stables, curate exhibitions during Open Estate Days, and support activities that encourage families and young people to explore Hylands in new and engaging ways.
Whether through historical displays, children's activities, exhibitions, talks or community events, our aim is always to make the history of Hylands accessible, enjoyable and relevant for everyone.
Thank You to Our Volunteers and Supporters
A milestone such as this provides an opportunity to recognise the remarkable contribution made by generations of volunteers.
The success of The Friends of Hylands House over the past thirty years has been built on the commitment, knowledge and generosity of countless individuals. Committee members, bookshop volunteers, tour guides, researchers, fundraisers and supporters have all played their part in helping Hylands flourish.
We are immensely grateful to everyone who has contributed their time and energy to our work over the years. Their dedication has helped ensure that Hylands House and Estate can continue to be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.
Looking Forward
While we are proud of everything that has been achieved since 1995, our work is far from complete.
As we enter our fourth decade, The Friends of Hylands House remain committed to supporting the preservation, enhancement and interpretation of this extraordinary historic estate. New projects, exhibitions, opportunities for learning and future restoration initiatives all lie ahead.
We look forward to welcoming new members and volunteers who share our passion for Hylands and wish to help safeguard its future for generations to come.
Become Part of the Story
By becoming a Friend of Hylands House, you will help support our ongoing work while enjoying a range of membership benefits and opportunities to become involved in one of Chelmsford's most cherished heritage sites.
Thank you to everyone who has been part of our journey over the past 30 years.
Here's to the next 30 years of friendship, heritage and community at Hylands House.
