Benham Place, [180], the seat of —— Bacon, Esq. The entrance to the park from the high road, has a handsome lodge on each side; a spacious road from thence through a wood leads to the open grounds, where a variety of pleasing views immediately present themselves. On the south, beyond the vale, through which, in meandering mazes, glides the limpid Kennet, a fine prospect of Hampsted Marshal Park presents itself. The grounds on this side are agreeably diversified in appearance, richly decorated with wood and water, which objects are most delightfully distributed over verdant meadows by the plaistic hand of nature, forming a most enchanting assemblage of sylvan beauties. On the west are high grounds, crowned with extensive woods, with the bold projecting tracts of the Wiltshire Downs in the distance. The view towards the east has also equal claims to attention; a large and well-cultivated district thence appearing in lovely contrast to the view. The mansion is regular, of the Ionic order, composed of free stone, having an elegant portico on the south front. It stands on a sloping bank, amidst a most charming grove of trees of various coloured foliage. A handsome sheet of water, partaking of all the crystal beauties of its parent stream, the Kennet, flows before the mansion, over which stands a bridge of three arches, built in the Chinese style. The grounds are judiciously ornamented with woods, and the whole presents a combination of simplicity and beauty.
Bently, T. Esq. [4]. (see [the Hermitage])
Benyon, R. Esq. [178]. (see [Englefield House])
Berkeley, Lady, [174]. (see [Cranford Park])
Besborough, Earl of, [24]. In this house are some valuable antiquities, particularly the celebrated trunk of a Venus, from the collection of Baron Stosch; and a bust of Demosthenes, by Benvenuto Cellini; with some good pictures, among which are, the Interment of a Cardinal, by John ab Eyck, the first painter in oil colours; also portraits, by Rubens and Holbein.
Bevis Mount, [221], the seat of H. Hulton, Esq. derives its name from the celebrated Sir Bevois, the hero of Southampton. It was originally a vast pile of earth thrown up for defence, which is now laid out in pleasure grounds of the most tasteful description, the effect of which is greatly heightened by its situation, the tide, at high water, forming a beautiful bay at the foot of the eminence. This was once the residence of Southeby the poet.
Biddulph, John, Esq. [39]. (see [Burton Park])
Bistern House, [94].
Bittern Grove, [221].
Black Brook, [222].