AttractionEnglish Heritage

The Grange at Northington

Alresford, Hampshire

The foremost Greek Revival building in England, standing like a temple above a lake, free and exterior only, with quiet Hampshire parkland for your dog.

It looks like a Greek temple dropped into Hampshire, which is exactly the effect intended. The Grange owes its appearance to the architect William Wilkins, who between 1809 and 1816 wrapped a modest 17th century brick house in a full Doric portico modelled on the Temple of Hephaestus in Athens. It came within days of demolition in 1975 and was saved by public outcry. It now hosts an opera festival in the summer.

Whilst you take in the portico, note that access is exterior and grounds only, which suits a dog well. The park is the visit: open parkland, the lake below the house and quiet Hampshire countryside, with the Candover valley footpaths nearby.

Free to visit. There are no posted dog rules here, so keep your dog on a lead near the lake and under close control in the park, which is grazed at times. There are no facilities. It has no postcode in English Heritage's own listing, so check directions before setting off, and expect restricted access during the opera season.

At a Glance

Site Type: House & Palace
Entry: Paid entry
Members: Free for English Heritage members

English Heritage Membership

Planning Your Visit

Opening times

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 10:00 - 17:00
Thursday: 10:00 - 17:00
Friday: 10:00 - 17:00
Saturday: 10:00 - 17:00
Sunday: 10:00 - 17:00

Opening times and prices were checked on 26 August 2026 and are subject to change, and some sites close for events or over winter. Confirm on the English Heritage site page before you travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Grange at Northington dog friendly?
Yes, The Grange is a lovely spot for a dog walk and free to visit. Access is exterior and grounds only, but that is very much the point — the park itself is the attraction, with open parkland, a lake below the house, and quiet Hampshire countryside to explore. There are no posted dog rules, so keep your dog on a lead near the lake and under close control in the park, which is grazed at times.
Are dogs allowed at The Grange at Northington year round?
The Grange is generally open throughout the year, but expect restricted access during the opera festival held there in the summer months. It is worth checking before you visit if you are planning a trip in the summer season, as access may be limited during that period.
What should I know before visiting The Grange at Northington with my dog?
A couple of practical things are worth knowing before you set off. The site has no facilities, so bring everything you and your dog might need. The Grange also has no postcode in English Heritage's own listing, so check directions carefully in advance to make sure you can find it without any trouble.