Many visitors describe Ham House as a 'miniature Hampton Court'. The red-brick building, constructed in 1610, was the home of the first Earl of Dysart, who served as the 'whipping boy' to Charles I. Inside, visitors can enjoy grand furnishings and beautiful works of art by Antonio Verrio, Nicholas Hilliard, Constable, and Reynolds. Descending from the building is a tranquil garden that slopes down towards the river Thames, with delightful 17th century formal gardens for further exploration.