Commissioned by William Beckford (1760–1844) this tower is designed in a Greek revival style, with a hint of Tuscany.
Born immensely rich, Beckford became a collector, patron, writer and eccentric builder. Cold shouldered by English society, he became a recluse and bought two adjacent houses in Lansdown Crescent in Bath, and pursued his fascination with towers. Each morning, accompanied by his dwarf and pack of spaniels, Beckford would ride up to his Tower to play with his treasures in its opulent rooms, described in the books of the tower museum.

Like Beckford, those who stay here can climb the fine circular staircase to the ‘Belvidere’ just below the elaborate, gilded lantern and enjoy, all to themselves, what he called ‘the finest prospect in Europe’. After Beckford’s death the Tower became a chapel and its grounds an elegant cemetery. Now carefully restored by The Landmark Trust, the ground floor is available for holidays.

Visitor Comments

Peace, lovely walks, our own tower to live in – what more could you want?

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