Fodor's Expert Review Polesden Lacey

This gorgeous, cream-yellow Regency mansion, built in 1824, contains impressive collections of fine French furniture, Chinese porcelain, and Dutch and Italian paintings from the early part of the 20th century. Edwardian society hostess Margaret Greville was responsible for the lavish interiors—including the extraordinary, slightly over-the-top gold saloon—which have been enjoyed by everyone from British royalty to Indian maharajas; the future King George VI stayed here for part of his honeymoon in 1923. On summer days you can wander its vast landscaped lawns (you can even rent croquet equipment from the house) and beautiful walled garden. The house is in Great Bookham, 10 miles east of Guildford.