The Wizard Earl, the start of astronomy with a telescope, Sir Walter Raleigh, Virginia, the Gunpowder Plot, and the Smithsonian. What does all of this history have in common? Syon Park, a stately home on the River Thames.

Syon House

This is the Great Conservatory, not the house.

I've put a few pictures related to this article on the Pinterest board Astronomy Places

One of the pins on the board is a map that includes both Syon Park and Kew Observatory. Both places once contained 15th century monasteries founded by Henry V.

Hi Mona

I was born in the Syon Park district not far from Syon House. Your article made on Syon made me want to revisit the area.

Thanks

So, Linda, where were you born then? I have to say that having made the acquaintance of west London, I'm endlessly fascinated by it.