Hidden inside an 18th-century mansion which stands amid landscaped gardens and bluebell woods is a pianist’s treasure trove.
A Pleyel piano owned by Chopin, a Broadwood played and autographed by Elgar, a Ducci upright borrowed by Liszt for his Italian travels, and even an Erard made for Queen Marie-Antoinette sit side by side in this Aladdin’s Cave.
To explore these, and other, piano delights, head to Hatchlands in Surrey, home to the world’s largest collection of keyboard instruments.
Over the past 40 years antique keyboard enthusiast Alec Cobbe has scoured museums, auction houses and private collections to track down instruments owned by composers, bringing them together as the Cobbe Collection.
With all the instruments kept in playing condition, concerts using these historical gems are still held today in the Hatchlands music room.
Where is it?: East Clandon, Surrey
Open: 2pm-5.30pm (except Monday, Friday and Sunday)
Entry: £6.60 adults; £3.30 children
For more: see www.cobbecollection.co.uk
Related links: Fishamble Street, Dublin
