It comes as somewhat of an architectural surprise to see the blue onion domes and miniature minarets of Sezincote, a mellow stone house tucked into a valley near Moreton-in-Marsh. Created in the early 19th century, the house and estate were the vision of Sir Charles Cockerell, who made a fortune in the East India Company. He employed his architect brother, Samuel Pepys Cockerell, to "Indianize" the residence with Hindu and Muslim motifs. Note the peacock-tail arches surrounding the windows of the first floor. The exotic garden, Hindu temple folly, and Indian-style bridge have appealed to visitors ever since the future George IV came to the estate in 1807 (and was inspired to create that Xanadu of Brighton, the Royal Pavilion). If you come in spring, glorious aconites and snowdrops greet you. Note that children are allowed indoors only at the owners' discretion.
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