second from the third bay of each wing that flanks the central projection. The facade is symmetrical, however the curve-topped windows of the central projection are taller than the flat-topped windows of the wings, thus uniformity at roof level is achieved by an upward curve to the central section from the wings. These motifs, examples of baroque architecture are exceedingly rare in Britain, where baroque was fashionable for a very brief period at the end of the 17th century and beginning of the 18th. The brickwork, from bricks made on site, is described by Nikolaus Pevsner and Elizabeth Williamson, in their 2003 Buckinghamshire volume of the Pevsner Buildings of England, as "among the finest of any house of this date". The main door opens to a fine panelled Great Hall, in the manner of William Kent with a classical double-height ceiling depicting Herse and her sisters sacrificing to Flora. Through an arcade of marble columns, oak staircases lead to the upper floors. The most remarkable room is the library on the upper floor, with all shelving and books concealed behind what appears to be panelling, thus disguising the room's true use. The house is surrounded by a park of , including a lake, canal, and of gardens, laid out by George London and Henry Wise. An avenue of lime trees leads to the house, past an octagonal dovecote. The River Ouse lies to the east. Listing designations Chicheley Hall is a Grade I listed building. The stable block, the service wing, and the dovecote are listed Grade II*. A garden house to the north-west of the hall, and a summerhouse to the north-east are listed Grade II, as are three sets of gates, with attached walls and gate piers. Gallery Notes References Sources Country houses in Buckinghamshire English Baroque architecture Buildings and structures in Milton Keynes Grade I listed buildings in Buckinghamshire Grade I listed houses Thomas Archer buildings