Stourhead House and Garden

About

Stourhead House and Garden is a grand 18th‑century Palladian villa surrounded by one of England’s most celebrated landscape gardens. Set on a 1,072‑hectare (2,650‑acre) estate near Mere in Wiltshire, the grounds stretch from manicured lawns and oak‑clad avenues to the picturesque lake, classical temples, the Pantheon and Alfred’s Tower. Visitors can wander through the elegant bridge, the Temple of Apollo, the Botanical Garden and experience the gentle rise and fall of the lake’s waters while exploring the historic house’s art collections, library and Regency furnishings. The estate’s design is a living landscape that mirrors the timeless story of the River Stour, blending classical gardens with natural woodland and pasture. The grounds are open all year, with a range of activities for families, couples, history enthusiasts, and art lovers. The National Trust offers free entry for members, and a variety of ticket options for non‑members, with a minimum price of £0 (for children under five) and standard adult tickets of £22.00. Whether you wish to stroll the lake, attend a guided walk, visit the historic house or simply relax in the gardens, Stourhead provides a quintessential British heritage experience. Stourhead’s signature highlights include its stunning Palladian House, the world‑famous Landscape Garden, the romantically‑arched Palladian Bridge, the majestic Pantheon, and the triangular Alfred’s Tower, each offering a unique view of the garden’s mastery. The estate also provides a range of facilities such as a café, a historic inn, a gift shop and a bookshop, making it an ideal day out for all ages.

Highlights

• Palladian House
• Landscape Garden
• Pantheon
• Temple of Apollo
• Alfred's Tower

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At a glance

• Typical visit: about 4 hours 30 minutes

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