08/04/2026
Our Springtime Open Day is just days away (Sunday 12th April), and alongside all the spring activities and beautiful Gardens to walk around, we're marking a remarkable piece of history.
This year is the centenary of the Countess of Warwick's attempt to gift Easton Lodge to the Trades Union Congress as a "Working Man's University" - and our archivists have created a special display telling this extraordinary story.
The story:
Frances Maynard - known as 'Daisy' - was one of the most iconic society figures of her time, hosting lavish country house parties at Easton Lodge and moving in royal circles. But she took a most unusual path for the era, becoming deeply involved in left-wing politics. The socialite became a socialist.
Throughout the 1920s, Easton Lodge became known as the "Chequers" of the Labour Party, hosting many conferences and gatherings. Ramsey MacDonald and H. G. Wells often joined her in welcoming visitors to these events.
In February 1926, Lady Warwick formally gifted Easton Lodge to the TUC to become a Labour college for 200 students. Plans were drawn up, funds were needed - £50,000 (around £3 million today). But the General Strike in May 1926 devastated union funds. In September, the TUC voted against proceeding. They couldn't raise the money whilst their members were in poverty.
In December 1926, Lady Warwick withdrew her offer, deeply disappointed. But she never abandoned her commitment, continuing to welcome socialist and philanthropic events at Easton Lodge throughout the 1920s and 30s.
This Sunday:
Visit the Archive Building to discover more through photographs, documents, and stories from our archivists. It's a tale of idealism, generosity, and extraordinary times - and we think history lovers will find it captivating.
Plus everything else happening:
🌸 Spring gardens at their absolute peak
🏹 Have-a-go archery with White Dragon Activity Centre
🥚 Easter egg trail with chocolate prizes
🌱 Activities for children
🌳 Treehouse climbing & animal trail
🌿 Guided garden tour at 1.30pm
🎵 Live music from Karen & Tony
🛍️ Craft stalls
🍰 Hot food from The Giggly Pig Company & hot drinks & homemade cakes from Daisy's
Something for everyone - come and join us!
📅 THIS SUNDAY 12th April | 11am-5pm
🎟️ £6 advance (until Saturday 11th April) / £7.50 gate
👨👩👧 Children FREE
🐕 Dogs on leads welcome
Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/uk/FUDM
See you Sunday! 🌸
