Explore the beautiful and curious Rushton Triangular Lodge

Kettering, Northamptonshire

This place is proof that in England you'll find architectural treasures in the most unlikely places.

The beautiful yet curious Triangular Lodge is tucked away beside a country lane near Rushton, and as the name suggests, has three walls. It was built by Sir Thomas Tresham between 1593 and 1597 as a symbol of his Catholic belief, having spent 15 years in prison for refusing to become a Protestant.

With that in mind, you’ll realise the significance of the three – rather than four – walls. Each of them is made from layers of dark and light limestone – giving them a stripy effect – and if you were to whip out a measuring device you’d find that they’re all 33 feet long. Not only that, but it has three windows (all different), three floors – and three gargoyles keeping watch.Got it yet?  It’s all referencing the holy trinity. When you’ve had a look round here, why not head to nearby Kirby Hall – it’s one of England’s most gorgeous Elizabethan houses (with a 17th-century twist).

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Rushton Triangular Lodge.© English Heritage
Rushton Triangular Lodge.© English Heritage

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