March 2006

Anniversary of the Royal Meterological Society

The British public are constantly obsessed with the weather these days, when making pleasantries it is practically the first topic one mentions. Well many people may not know this but Hartwell House, lying in the Vale of Aylesbury a Grade 1 listed country house is where it all this ‘weather talk’ started.

On Wednesday 3rd April 1850 within the library of Hartwell House near Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, the Meteorological Society was founded by Hartwell’s colourful and eccentric occupant, philanthropist Dr John Lee Esq. The Society was established as 'The British Meteorological Society', and was incorporated by Royal Charter in 1866, when its name was changed to "The Meteorological Society". The privilege of adding 'Royal' to the title was granted by Her Majesty Queen Victoria in 1883.

An amalgamation with the Scottish Meteorological Society took place in 1921 and the Patron of the society today is HRH The Prince of Wales.

The Royal Meteorological Society is the national society for all whose profession or interests are in any way connected with meteorology or related subjects and under its Royal Charter, pursues the advancement of meteorological science. The interpretation of meteorological science now includes the application in weather forecasting and in disciplines such as agriculture, aviation, hydrology, marine transport and oceanography, as well as in the areas of climatology, climate change and the interaction between the atmosphere and the oceans. Most members include professional scientists, practitioners and weather enthusiasts.

Dr John Lee Esq was a Victorian liberal who inherited Hartwell through his mother's family. During his time, the House became a cross between a museum and temperance hall with his enthusiasm for astronomical studies leading him to build a futuristic astronomical observatory, projecting from the south-west corner of the house.

The shape of the observatory can still be seen within the interiors of Hartwell and throughout retains some original Jacobean features as well as the work of the Georgian architects; the furnishings and decorations reflect this period, creating the ambience of a great historical country house.

Hartwell House is proud to be an elected member of Pride of Britain and boasts Four Red Stars and Three Rosettes from the AA and a Gold Ribbon from the RAC. It is set within beautiful rural countryside yet it’s only one hour from central London and Heathrow Airport and is an ideal place for a few days' relaxation.

Hartwell House is owned and was restored by Historic House Hotels who also own Middlethorpe Hall in York and Bodysgallen Hall in North Wales. www.historichousehotels.com