Step back in time and explore art, architecture, and gardens as you analyze the social, political, and economic contexts of the country house through over 500 years of English history and culture. With historic estates, homes, and gardens as the classroom, you will complete your own research that investigates the multidisciplinary history of the country house.
Develop the knowledge and skills to conduct research and analysis situating “country houses/living” within broader historical trends. Conduct field analysis and immerse yourself in five hundred years of history, art and culture as you visit Blenheim Palace, Broughton Castle, 17th Century Country Houses in Syon, and landscape gardens in Stowe.
| Location | Oxford |
| For Ages | 19+ years |
| Duration | 2 Weeks |
| Dates & Prices |
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This course immerses you in the world of English stately homes and country gardens, combining art, architecture, history, and cultural analysis. With fieldwork and research at iconic estates, you’ll develop the skills to interpret historical spaces, understand their social and political context, and explore their continuing impact today.
* Intersections between architecture and social history
* Using fieldwork to design a research study
* Modern issues of housing, gentrification and class based societies
* Visiting several estates that represent over five hundred years of English history and culture
* Pursuing careers in history, architecture, art, urban planning, and the humanities
* Learn how to “read” a landscape garden and interpret the fundamental elements of a country house
* Identify broad trends and innovations across five centuries of art, architecture, and landscape design
* Investigate the connection between “housing” and “power”, and identify the symbolic role of the English Country House
* Develop insights and skills towards the interpretation of various periods like the Victorian Style, the Gothic Revival, and Medieval backgrounds among others
* Conduct research and apply a multidisciplinary lens to investigate the social, political, and economic, and artistic implications of country house
* Apply insights to modern social, political, and economic issues like gentrification, urban planning, and estate conservation
* Explore Career Paths: History, architecture, art, urban planning, heritage, and humanities.
* Learn from Experts: Gain guidance from academics and historians in historical and cultural analysis.
* Strengthen Professional Skills: Research, analysis, presentation, and critical thinking.
The Stately Homes & Country Gardens programme blends historical study with immersive fieldwork to provide a rich understanding of England’s architectural and cultural heritage.
* Expert-led seminars, debates, and simulations
* Hands-on research and analysis projects
* Fieldwork visits to historic estates and gardens
* Field-Based Learning: Visit country houses and gardens to study architecture, art, and landscape design firsthand.
* Multidisciplinary Research: Investigate the historical, social, political, and economic dimensions of country houses.
* Hands-On Analysis: Conduct research projects to analyze trends, innovations, and symbolism in English estates.
* Accommodation in an Oxford college
* Safe, secure campus access
* 24/7 support team
* Free WiFi, teaching materials, and dedicated mentoring
* Daily social activities, tours & networking events
* Excursions to top UK destinations
* Guest lectures from world-class business leaders
* Graduation ceremony & celebration to mark your achievement
Residential accommodation in an Oxford college
Immersive lectures and expert teachers
Study materials and support
Guest speakers
A truly international environment - over 170 nationalities
Talks and debates with world-class guest speakers
Enjoy guided walking tours and free time to discover hidden cafés, bookshops, and cultural landmarks
Visit London and historic English sites on optional excursions
Join evening networking events, professional development workshops, and social activities.
Try punting on the River Cherwell — a true Oxford tradition
Hannah
I had an absolutely incredible time doing Summer school with Oxford Royale Academy! I learnt new things about myself and the world around me, and would definitely recommend to others!
Clara
I loved the Oxford Royal program, I met many people with bright personalities and unique minds, and I also learned a lot from the teachers, campus staff etc. You will enjoy it!
Francesca
Oxford Royals Academy made my summer amazing! I learned many new things and I met people from all over the world that I know I can call true friends. I definitely recommend ORA to anyone who wants to make unforgettable memories!
Minquan
The twelve days I spent in Oxford Summer School were very happy, the teachers were very kind and professional, and the curriculum was very reasonable, which expanded my knowledge. All the courses mean a lot to me and I hope I can come back next summer.
Jade
The oxford royale academy was definitely the highlight of my summer. I have not only learnt more about the course I have chosen, but I've also met a lot of new friends, friendly staff and helpful teachers from different cultures all in the same campus and had a lot of unforgettable memories.
Katherine
Oxford Royale was a great expreince. It was amazing to get to know people all over the globe and form life long relationships.
Our English language requirements are as follows:
Students who have studied at an English speaking school for two or more years are exempt from English requirements.
Your fees cover everything you need for a rich academic and extracurricular experience, including:
