National Museums Liverpool Blog - Visit to Sudley House

Isobel at Sudley House

Work experience student Isobel from South Liverpool has been busy working hard in the Press and Marketing office for the last 2 weeks. Isobel went on a visit to Sudley House to check out the recent renovations, here’s what she thought of it:

'Situated in an expanse of picturesque grounds Sudley House is an interesting, historic place full of intriguing paintings and furnishings. For a year now it has been re-opened to the public, following a period of restoration. So today I visited the house to discover whether any changes made have been successful or yet another modernisation of a historic building, ruining its original features.

Although the entrance pathway has been widened to make way for coaches and tourists I feel it makes little difference when the grounds are so elegant, on this sunny day they look beautiful and it is very tempting to spend my day strolling through the gardens!

Sudley House tells a story of Liverpool’s history and the Holt family. Featured on the televisions standing on the ground floor rooms are stories told by Mr Holt, Emily Holt and their maid. The tale starts with Mr Holt, a wealthy man whose business was in ships and Liverpool’s bustling harbour. This man bought the house which was then passed onto his daughter after he died. When Emma, the daughter, died she left the house to the people of Liverpool. 

One update that surprised me was the new lift. It seems misplaced amongst the wooden furnishings and delicate paintings. However after an explanation it does seem necessary for enabling those with disabilities to visit the House.

On the first floor were several exhibitions, all different and appealing to a range of interests. What was particularly special to me was the competition exhibit, in which entrees had to make an arts/crafts piece inspired by something in the house. It was obvious that a lot of thought had gone into the pieces the all seemed to be different and winners in their own right. The winning piece was extraordinary: a stained glass window standing in a window capturing the sun magnificently and glowing in an array of bright colours.

It is somewhat impressive the number of paintings Mr Holt had in his collection and furthermore that they are still intact at the house. My favourite was the bright parrot whose red coat stands proud on an upstairs wall. Another eye-catching display was the china.

To me Sudley House is a motivational member of Liverpool’s variety of museums, catering to the needs of many and doing essential work regarding those with learning disabilities. Sudley House would be ideal for a family outings or school trips and teaching about Liverpool’s heritage.'