ACS was pleased to welcome the Active 50+ group whose meetings take place at Brunel University in Uxbridge.  They had requested the opportunity to come and see Hillingdon Court as a local historical building.  Mr. Ken Pearce, well known local historian agreed to come and give them a talk on the history of the house, which was built in 1858, and the family who built it and lived here for fifty or more years, concluding with its more recent history.  

At least 40 members of the group turned up and were thoroughly impressed with, in most cases, their first glimpse of the building, and over-awed by the receptions rooms and lovely oak staircase.  Mr. Pearce is now an ‘old’ friend of ACS Hillingdon and his talk was enjoyed by the group as well as complemented by the pictures and articles displayed in the red room. The talk was followed by a tour of the main house, and the (new) west wing for those who wanted to venture further.  Much exercise was undertaken as we walked up several staircases to the top floor from where we can get a glimpse of  Northolt Aerodrome, which was originally part of Lord Hillingdon’s Estate, and the new Wembley Stadium. Back down to the ground floor via the servants staircase raising much sympathy for the staff of the era having to do this on a regular basis!  We ventured into the grounds but as the morning had started with a snow storm just as everyone was arriving, it was bitterly cold and most people returned to the building quite quickly!

All the visitors were very complimentary about the building and were very impressed at its upkeep.  Everyone enjoyed the visit and I have already been asked to book a visit for another group to which one of the visitors belongs.

All of our visiting groups come by word of mouth. There is no advertising, we are just happy to welcome local groups to Hillingdon Court to see one of this areas historic buildings, to learn about its history,  and marvel at its upkeep and maintenance.  

Ken Pearce is a well-known local author. Since 1970 he has been chairman of the Uxbridge Local History and Archives Society and the Society presented the School with two Lady Hillingdon climbing roses in 2005 on the occasion of the school’s 25th anniversary at Hillingdon Court.  I would like to thank Mr. Pearce for his help and advice in maintaining and updating the history of Hillingdon Court and his continuing willingness to talk to local groups on the subject.

Thanks also to Diane Neville for helping as a tour guide on such visits, together with Peter Thompson, who always helps to look after our guests so well.