Cragside, Northumberland
This collection has 22,093 items online
Cragside was the home of an extraordinary man, William George Armstrong (1810-1900). He was a scientist and technical innovator of genius; one of the most successful industrialists of his generation. Like many wealthy Victorians, Armstrong spent his money on his family, his homes and his collections. Cragside began as a modest holiday retreat in the seclusion of Northumberland, but as his wealth grew and the local area became connected to Newcastle by the railway, he began building a magnificent mansion, designed by Norman Shaw. As the house grew, Armstrong’s collection grew with it. His enthusiasm for collecting included contemporary British art, furniture, ceramics and natural history. The house also has items which reflect his scientific curiosity and experimentation. Overall Cragside is a place of wonder, excitement and curiosity. The first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity is once again powered by water, 150 years after the pioneering Lord Armstrong built his visionary Northumberland home.
