Houghton House, Ampthill, Bedfordshire.....

In a setting high up on the Greensands Ridge and with magnificent panoramic views over Bedfordshire, the ruins of the once grand Houghton House are romantic and as pretty as a picture.  It is said to be the inspiration of John Bunyan's 'Palace Beautiful' in his Pilgrim's Progress. The house was probably designed in 1615 by John Thorpe with alterations five years later, possibly by Inigo Jones, or in his style, for Mary Herbert, Dowager Countess of Pembroke on land she was gifted by James I.  Mary was a well-connected member of the royal court.  The house may stand on the site of the Medieval house of the Manor of Dame Ellensbury.  Houghton House was dismantled in 1794 by the 5th Duke of Bedford.

Just a lovely spot to visit …

Reminiscent of Granada, almost, …..

Before....

…. and after.....

These people left more than footprints, and I took only photos...

Mistletoe for Christmas anyone?...….