The Friends of Kenwood
Kenwood House and its beautiful grounds adjoining Hampstead Heath were bequeathed to the nation in 1927 by the Earl of Iveagh. This outstanding neo-classical house holds one of the most important collections of paintings ever given to the nation.
Works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Reynolds, Gainsborough and Turner all hang against a backdrop of sumptuous rooms, including the richly decorated library; one of Robert Adam’s masterpieces. The landscaped grounds and lake are enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year and form the backdrop to films, open air concerts, plays and other events.
The Friends of the Iveagh Bequest, more well-known as the Friends of Kenwood, was formed in 1977. Our purpose is to inspire visitors of today and tomorrow to promote and preserve the special qualities of Kenwood House, its collection and estate.
Our Aims
To achieve the above, our specific aims are to:
- Provide a forum and voice for friends and supporters, and act as advocate for the Kenwood estate and the terms of the Iveagh Bequest
- Support English Heritage in their management of the Kenwood estate
- Provide for members a range of social, educational, and fundraising activities, publications and events
- Stimulate public interest in, and care of, the beauty, history and character of Kenwood, and ensure that this character is maintained
- Raise funds for acquisitions, conservation work and other relevant projects or activities related to Kenwood
- Encourage high standards in, and appropriate development of, all areas of activity at Kenwood, including architecture, planning, estate management, conservation, and the visitor experience.
