Noble Ambitions; The Fall and Rise of the English Country House After World War II

A lively and entertaining exploration of the English country home in the postwar era, where aristocratic traditions clashed with the rise of modern Britain.

As the British Empire waned, so did the fortunes of its grand estates. Noble families struggled to maintain their ancestral homes, with some resorting to demolishing entire wings, while others fought to hold onto their legacy. Meanwhile, a new wave of wealthy homeowners entered the country house scene, reshaping the aristocratic landscape. Noble Ambitions takes readers on a fascinating journey through this period of upheaval, from glittering debutante balls attended by Mick Jagger to the headline-making scandals of Princess Margaret.

With wit and insight, historian Adrian Tinniswood captures the drama, decadence, and social shifts of the era, revealing how the country house remained a powerful symbol of British identity—even as its role in society transformed forever.