A treat on the doorstep

I have to admit that although it's only Monday, I'm already somewhat weary because I've rather overdone it on the culture vulture front these past few days, as well as managing the day job! My down town feast included: the Queen Elizabeth Hall for an evening of amazing jazz/rock by a Swedish combo called Tonbruket, including a surprise support set by a Korean jazz vocalist which was eerily beautiful; to Wilton's Music Hall for the Doris Day story - always great fun there; the fascinating Henry Moore exhibition at Tate Britain; and late evening at the V&A for their stunning new Medieval and Renaissance galleries.
But the real revelation was much closer to home. I live very close to Syon Park and for years have regularly visited the garden centre and have even enjoyed the gardens but have never taken that extra time to visit inside the house - shame on me! Thanks to a friend who now works on site, I was fortunate enough to be treated to a private tour last week as the house has just re-opened for the 2010 season. What a treat! The London home of the Dukes of Northumberland, it is full of glorious Robert Adam interiors with lots of fabulous original furniture and furnishing, all tied together with the story of the young Princess Victoria. Highly recommended, wherever you live!