The Estorick Collection is housed in a beautiful Georgian building previously known as Northampton Lodge. It was constructed between 1807 and 1810 by the entrepreneur Henry Leroux of Stoke Newington, who leased a plot of land from the Ninth Earl of Northampton in 1803 to build a series of houses. However, the Parliament Act of 1812 authorised the construction of a wide thoroughfare across Canonbury Square, and the increased traffic in horses and carts made these properties less attractive to potential buyers, bankrupting Leroux.
Today, the museum comprises six galleries over three floors, as well as a library, offices, a café and bookshop.
As part of Open House 2026 we are offering free tours of the building on 20 and 21 September 2025.
We will provide a guided tour of the building and explore the rich history of Northampton Lodge and the social significance of the collection it houses. Starting from historic Canonbury Square, visitors will enter through the original entrance and explore the collection with an informative guide. There will be a special focus on the building's varied past, its recent restoration and ongoing care.
Tour of the Building
Saturday 12 September at 12.00, 14.00 and 16.00
Sunday 13 September at 12.30 and 15.00
Please note that to join a tour, advance booking is required.
Free entry to the museum all weekend. Drop in welcome, no booking required.