Fonthill Collection

Beckford / Fonthill Abbey
WILLIAM BECKFORD Fonthill Abbey, Wiltshire, built at enormous expense by the English writer, art collector and eccentric

Beckford / Fonthill Abbey
WILLIAM BECKFORD Fonthill Abbey, Wiltshire, built at enormous expense by the English writer, art collector and eccentric

Fonthill Visited
Admiral Nelson visits William Beckford at Fonthill, Berkshire Date: 1801

Fonthill Abbey / Buckler
FONTHILL ABBEY, WILTSHIRE As rebuilt by Beckford Date: 1822

Castle, Academy of Mount St. Vincent, front view, New York, N.Y. between 1905 and 1915. Creator: Unknown
Castle, Academy of Mount St. Vincent, front view, New York, N.Y. between 1905 and 1915

Photograph of Fonthill Tavern, Finsbury Park, London. The main side of the print (shown here) depicts: Corner on view of the pub

Fonthill (engraving)
670338 Fonthill (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Fonthill. Illustration for The Pictorial History of England (W & R Chambers, 1858)

Gateway of the Fonthill Estate, Wiltshire, 2005. Fonthill Abbey and its surrounding estate was built in 1795-1807 by James Wyatt for the wealthy novelist and eccentric William Beckford (1760-1844)

Fonthill Estate lake, Wiltshire, 2005

Fonthill Abbey, The Oratory, 1824. Artist: William Deeble
Fonthill Abbey, The Oratory, 1824. From Views of the Seats of Noblemen and Gentlemen in England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland. Second Series: Vol I, by John Preston Neale. [J. P. Neale, London, 1824]

John Farquhar
JOHN FARQUHAR Scottish millionaire who purchased the ruins of Fonthill from William Beckford; in a fanciful surround, seemingly mocking. Date: 1751 - 1826

Beckford / Fonthill House
WILLIAM BECKFORD Fonthill House, Wiltshire, home of the English writer, art collector and eccentric Date: 1760 - 1844

Fonthill / Rutter 1823
Fonthill House, Wiltshire: interior of St Michaels Gallery, looking across the octagon into King Edwards Gallery

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"Fonthill: A Glimpse into Beckford's Enchanting World" Step back in time and immerse yourself in the captivating world of Fonthill, a place that holds the legacy of one of England's most eccentric figures, William Beckford. At the heart of this enchanting estate lies Fonthill Abbey, an architectural marvel that once stood as a testament to Beckford's extravagant taste. Beckford, known for his wealth and love for all things grandiose, commissioned the construction Abbey in the late 18th century. Its towering spires and Gothic-inspired design left visitors awestruck. Today, although only ruins remain, it still exudes an air of mystery and allure. Fonthill Abbey was not just a mere residence; it was also home to an extensive collection of art and literature amassed by Beckford himself. Visitors would wander through its halls adorned with priceless treasures from around the world. The Oratory within Fonthill Abbey stands as a testament to both its spiritual significance and architectural brilliance. As you explore further into the history surrounding Fonthill Estate, you'll discover other notable landmarks such as Buckler's engraving depicting its majestic gateway—a glimpse into what once welcomed guests onto this vast property. The tranquil lake on the estate offers breathtaking views that have inspired artists throughout centuries like William Deeble who captured its beauty in his artwork. Beyond architecture and natural splendor, it has been associated with intriguing tales involving individuals like John Farquhar—a man entangled in scandalous affairs connected to this very place. These stories add another layer to Fonthill's rich tapestry. Even beyond Wiltshire’s borders lies evidence of Fonthill's influence—photographs capturing glimpses of London’s own interpretation at places like Finsbury Park’s iconic tavern bearing its name—an homage to Beckford's opulent creation.