Hughenden was purchased by Benjamin Disraeli as his country home in 1848 and was cherished by himself and his wife Mary Anne. Securing the manor was vital to the realisation of his political ambitions and his personal aspirations and it provided the setting for a political drama and royal visits. The top floor is dedicated to Queen Victoria who Disraeli made Empress of India.

The Year 12 students explored the house and gardens to obtain a real feel for its history. The young Disraeli was an unlikely politician with his flamboyant appearance and heavy debts. He married a wealthy widow and bought Hughenden Manor which became his much loved home and private retreat. Its library contains a rich array of books and its dining room is adorned with a portrait of Queen Victoria who was once a guest for lunch. There is even a costume room where our students entertained themselves by dressing up as various characters from the Victorian era.
Hughenden Manor was the base for a secret map-making organisation during the Second World War. It is certainly worth a visit.

Mr Leybourne
Teacher of History