Dorneywood was left to the National Trust by Lord Courtauld-Thomson in 1942 with instructions that it was to be used as an official residence by the Prime Minister of the day, or a senior cabinet minister. On his death in 1954, his estate was arranged to create a fund, known as the Dorneywood Trust, which pays for the upkeep of the property, at no cost to the National Trust or to the public purse.A 2.5 hectare garden on several levels consisting of herbaceous borders, a rose garden, cottage and kitchen gardens, maintained in the style of the 1930s. Dorneywood House is an official residence for a Secretary of State or Minister of the Crown (not open to the public). Visit by appointment only (email for tickets).