Chairs of Wycombe at Hughenden Manor
Discover Wycombe’s chair-making legacy at Hughenden Manor. Uncover the intricate craftsmanship and historical significance of these influential seats, each telling a unique story of tradition and innovation.
Among the highlights is the ‘Spare Chair’. A rare early example from local producer ‘Skul’, later Ercol. The chair was made for Disraeli to be carried through the town in victory, after he was elected as MP. He stood as a candidate three times and failed to be elected on each occasion. So, the chair was never used, and became known as ‘Spare’.
The ‘Bobbin Chair’, displayed in both the bedroom and study, showcases the elegance and sophistication of the town’s craftsmanship. The chair in the study was sat in by Queen Victoria when she visited in 1881. The chair in the bedroom was used by Mary Anne Disraeli as she came to the end of her battle with cancer in 1872.
The ‘Baldwin Chair’, another notable piece carved by chair maker John Baldwin in 1863. It was gifted to Disraeli and features his coat of arms on the back as well as Old Testament prophets and mythical creatures on each arm.
Don’t miss the opportunity to step into history and experience the story of Wycombe’s chair-making heritage at Hughenden Manor.
Event dates: Monday 1st July – Sunday 4th August, 10am – 5pm (last entry 4:30pm)
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Accessibility info: Blue badge parking available. Accessible toilets. Wheelchairs available. House ground floor accessible. Grounds partly accessible: step-free route, some uneven paths. For further information regarding accessibility please visit – Hughenden | Buckinghamshire | National Trust
Facilities info: Toilets onsite. Café and shop. Dogs on leads and under close control are allowed in the formal gardens, the orchard, the parkland and in the Stableyard Café. Only assistance dogs are allowed inside the house.
Location: Hughenden Manor, National Trust, High Wycombe, HP14 4LA
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This event is free, and there is no booking required. There is an admission charge to Hughenden Manor for non-members of the National Trust. Admission is free to National Trust Members.
This event is part of the Chilterns Chairs Festival, running through July in celebration of the unique chairmaking heritage of Wycombe and the local area. With a varied programme of events, you’ll learn how the industry grew from the local landscape into thriving furniture production which proudly continues today. Join us to celebrate the stories, the chairs and the surroundings which make up our history. There’s something for everyone, so get involved!
The Chiltern’s Chairs Festival is being organised by Wycombe Museum and is funded by the Chalk, Cherries & Chairs Landscape Partnership.