Lacock Abbey: A Timeless Blend of History, Architecture, and Magic
Discover Lacock Abbey: centuries of history, stunning architecture, and magical Harry Potter film scenes in Wiltshire’s enchanting countryside.
Lacock Abbey, located in the Wiltshire countryside near Chippenham, is a remarkable historic site that has served as a medieval nunnery, Tudor country house, and birthplace of photography. Managed by the National Trust, it is famed for its stunning cloisters, Gothic Revival architecture, and as a beloved filming location for the Harry Potter series. Visitors can explore centuries of architectural evolution, beautiful gardens, and immersive Harry Potter film sets within this atmospheric estate.
A brief summary to Lacock Abbey
- Chippenham, Lacock, SN15 2LG, GB
- +441249730459
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Purchase tickets in advance or consider National Trust membership for entry and potential discounts.
- Explore the cloisters early in the day to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the Harry Potter filming locations.
- Don’t miss the Tudor stable courtyard, including the historic brewhouse and bakehouse.
- Visit the Chapter House to imagine the scene of the Mirror of Erised from the Harry Potter films.
- Combine your visit with a walk through Lacock village to see other Harry Potter filming sites and historic buildings.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Bus
From London Paddington, take a direct train to Chippenham (approximately 1 hour 20 minutes). From Chippenham station, catch the hourly bus service 234 or 235 to Lacock village, a 15-minute ride. Bus services may be less frequent on Sundays. Tickets cost around £10–£15 for the train and £3–£5 for the bus.
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Car
Driving from Bristol or Bath takes about 40–50 minutes via the A350. Lacock has limited parking near the Abbey; a National Trust car park is available with a daily fee of approximately £6. Parking can fill quickly during peak seasons.
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Guided Tour
Several day tours from London or Bath include Lacock Abbey as a stop, lasting 8–10 hours total. These tours provide transport and entry fees, typically costing £60–£90 per person.
Lacock Abbey location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lacock Abbey
Origins and Historical Evolution
Founded in 1232 by Ela, Countess of Salisbury, Lacock Abbey began as an Augustinian nunnery. After the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1539, Sir William Sharington acquired the property and transformed it into a Tudor country house. He retained much of the medieval cloister and basement, building the main living quarters above. Sharington’s additions include the distinctive octagonal tower, inspired by Renaissance designs, and elaborate stone tables supported by satyr figures. The estate remained in the Talbot family for centuries, with John Ivory Talbot in the 18th century commissioning architect Sanderson Miller to remodel the house in the Gothic Revival style, adding heraldic decorations and terracotta sculptures that enrich its character.Architectural Features and Grounds
Lacock Abbey is a complex blend of architectural styles spanning medieval, Tudor, and Gothic Revival periods. The house is built of ashlar and rubble stone, topped with stone slate roofs and adorned with twisted chimney stacks and mullioned windows. The cloisters, with their fine vaulting, remain largely intact beneath the house. The Tudor stable courtyard to the north is remarkably well preserved, featuring timbered dormer windows, a clock tower, and historic brewhouse and bakehouse. The south front of the house incorporates remnants of the original abbey church, rebuilt in the 19th century with Gothic bay windows. The octagonal Sharington’s Tower offers a unique architectural highlight with its belvedere and balustrade.Home of Photographic Innovation
Lacock Abbey holds a special place in the history of photography as the home of William Henry Fox Talbot, a pioneer who invented the photographic negative process. Talbot’s work at Lacock helped lay the foundation for modern photography, and many of the Abbey’s interiors and cloisters were subjects of his early photographic experiments. The estate’s combination of medieval and Gothic elements provided a perfect backdrop for Talbot’s artistic and scientific pursuits.Harry Potter’s Magical Connection
Lacock Abbey is internationally renowned as a key filming location for the Harry Potter films. Its golden cloisters, stone staircases, and vaulted ceilings were used extensively to represent Hogwarts corridors and classrooms. Iconic scenes such as Harry’s discovery of the Mirror of Erised in the Chapter House and Snape’s Potions classroom in the Sacristy were filmed here. The Abbey’s atmospheric interiors and historic charm have made it a favorite spot for fans, who can also explore the nearby village locations used in the films, including Harry’s parents’ house and Horace Slughorn’s hideout.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Lacock Abbey can immerse themselves in over 800 years of history while strolling through beautifully maintained gardens and exploring the richly decorated interiors. The site offers a tranquil and scenic environment, with opportunities to appreciate architectural details, historic artifacts, and the enchanting Harry Potter film sets. The blend of history, culture, and cinematic magic creates a unique and memorable experience for all ages.Preservation and National Trust Stewardship
Managed by the National Trust, Lacock Abbey is preserved as a cultural heritage site that balances public access with conservation. The Trust maintains the buildings, gardens, and surrounding village to protect their historic integrity. The site includes visitor amenities such as restrooms, seating areas, and information boards to enhance the experience. Lacock Abbey continues to inspire visitors with its layered history, architectural beauty, and magical legacy.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monks Mill
16.8 km
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The EASTGATE
16.9 km
Explore The EASTGATE, a captivating historical landmark in Bath, showcasing stunning Georgian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
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Parte de la muralla medieval de la ciudad de Bath
17.0 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city wall, a gateway to the city’s rich Roman and medieval heritage.
Archway
17.0 km
Discover Bath’s elegant Victorian Archway, a historic stone bridge carrying spa waters across York Street in the city’s UNESCO heritage heart.
The Pump Room Restaurant
17.0 km
Experience exquisite British and European cuisine in a historic setting at The Pump Room Restaurant, a must-visit gem in Bath.
Museum of Bath at Work
17.1 km
Explore Bath’s Industrial Heritage at the Museum of Bath at Work – A Journey Through Time and Craftsmanship.
SouthGate Bath
17.1 km
Explore SouthGate Bath: A shopping haven blending modern retail with historic charm in the heart of Bath.
Part of the mediaeval wall of the City of Bath
17.1 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city walls, a stone sentinel guarding centuries of history at 13 Trim Street.
Chapel Arts Centre
17.1 km
Discover the lively spirit of Bath at Chapel Arts Centre, where live music meets a cozy café atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
National Trust - Bath Assembly Rooms
17.1 km
Discover the timeless beauty and historical significance of the Bath Assembly Rooms, a stunning example of Georgian architecture and social culture.
The Cross Bath
17.2 km
Experience the historic thermal baths at The Cross Bath in Bath, offering relaxation and rejuvenation amidst stunning architecture and serene surroundings.
The Forum
17.2 km
Discover The Forum in Bath – a historic live music venue featuring diverse performances in a stunning architectural setting.
Hetling Pump Room
17.2 km
Explore the Hetling Pump Room in Bath: A museum dedicated to the city's medical heritage and the legendary healing waters.
The Circus
17.2 km
A breathtaking Georgian circle of townhouses blending classical design with ancient symbolism in the heart of Bath.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bowood Woodland Gardens
4.2 km
A seasonal floral haven in Wiltshire showcasing spectacular bluebells, magnolias, azaleas, and rhododendrons across 30 serene woodland acres.
Lowden Garden Centre
4.8 km
Discover Lowden Garden Centre: your go-to spot for gardening delights, fresh local produce, and cozy dining in the heart of Wiltshire.
Yelde Hall
4.9 km
Step into Chippenham’s medieval past at Yelde Hall, a historic timber-framed gem blending civic heritage with vibrant local culture.
Bowood House & Gardens
5.9 km
Historic Bowood House & Gardens: Timeless heritage, stunning Capability Brown parkland, and family adventure in Wiltshire’s countryside.
Middlewick House
6.4 km
Explore the stunning gardens, classic car collection, and vibrant community spirit at Nick Mason’s historic Middlewick House estate.
Morgan's Hill
10.7 km
Discover Morgan's Hill, a tranquil chalk grassland reserve rich in rare orchids, butterflies, historic earthworks, and sweeping Wiltshire vistas.
Kennet and Avon Canal
10.8 km
Historic 57-mile canal linking London to Bristol with iconic locks, aqueducts, and scenic towpaths through England’s picturesque countryside.
Wiltshire Museum
11.4 km
Discover 500,000 years of Wiltshire’s history through award-winning galleries and stunning Bronze Age treasures in the heart of Devizes.
Castle Combe
11.6 km
Step into Castle Combe, a timeless Cotswold village famed for its honey-hued stone cottages, medieval charm, and serene rural beauty.
Warleigh Weir
13.2 km
Discover the tranquil wild swimming spot of Warleigh Weir near Bath, where nature and community stewardship meet in a peaceful riverside setting.
Oldbury Castle Hillfort
13.2 km
Explore Oldbury Castle Hillfort, an ancient Iron Age stronghold with breathtaking views and rich prehistoric heritage on Wiltshire’s Cherhill Downs.
Cherhill White Horse
13.2 km
Historic chalk hill figure carved in 1780, offering stunning views and a unique glimpse into Wiltshire’s heritage.
Alice Park
15.5 km
An 8-acre community park in Bath blending nature, sport, and social life with award-winning café and family-friendly amenities.
Sham Castle
15.5 km
An 18th-century Gothic folly overlooking Bath, Sham Castle enchants with its medieval facade and sweeping city views.
Kensington Meadows
15.9 km
A spacious riverside green park in Bath with play areas, fishing, football, and scenic walking paths for year-round outdoor enjoyment.
Essential places to dine
Sign of the Angel
0.2 km
Step into history at Sign of the Angel, a 15th-century coaching inn in Lacock offering cozy charm, excellent food, and timeless English hospitality.
Bybrook
11.7 km
Michelin-starred modern British fine dining in a historic Cotswold manor with fresh, seasonal produce from its own kitchen garden.
Bathampton Mill Bath
14.3 km
Historic riverside gastropub blending traditional British charm with scenic views and modern dining near Bath.
Bathwick Boatman Riverside
16.2 km
Charming riverside dining in Bath’s historic boathouse, serving fresh seasonal dishes with warm, family-run hospitality.
The Restaurant at The Bird
16.4 km
Stylish, sustainable dining in Bathwick with modern British dishes, festive charm, and stunning views of Bath Abbey.
Ponte Vecchio
16.8 km
Bath’s finest Italian restaurant in a converted riverside boathouse, with stunning views of Pulteney Bridge and the weir.
Opa Bath
16.8 km
Experience authentic Greek meze and vibrant nightlife in atmospheric vaulted cellars by Bath’s River Avon.
Hudson Steakhouse
16.8 km
Experience expertly aged steaks and Victorian charm in Bath’s beloved Hudson Steakhouse, where tradition meets refined dining.
La Perla
16.8 km
Discover authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant flavors in the cozy, atmospheric arches beneath Bath’s historic streets.
The Herd Steak Restaurant
16.8 km
A cozy, family-run steakhouse in Bath famed for locally sourced, dry-aged beef and impeccable service in a unique basement setting.
Antica Bath Restaurant
16.8 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the charming Bathwick neighborhood at Antica Bath Restaurant.
Chez Dominique
16.8 km
Intimate modern French bistro in Bath offering seasonal Anglo-French cuisine with expertly crafted dishes and warm, attentive service.
The Elder Restaurant
16.8 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine with a focus on seasonal wild game in Bath’s elegant Georgian setting.
Sotto Sotto
16.8 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine in a romantic vaulted cellar setting beneath Bath’s historic streets.
The Hive Bar & Kitchen
16.8 km
Bath's beloved neighbourhood restaurant, celebrated for its Sunday roast and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
National Trust Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique, eco-friendly gifts and local artisan treasures in a historic Lacock High Street setting.
O L I V
0.2 km
Discover artisan candles, homewares, and unique gifts at O L I V, a charming boutique nestled in historic Lacock village.
Quintessentially English
0.2 km
A charming Wiltshire gift shop in Lacock, specializing in handmade soaps, candles, and artisanal beauty products with a distinctly English character.
CoCo Chemistry Chocolates
0.2 km
Handcrafted luxury chocolates in the historic village of Lacock, blending tradition, quality, and charm for a truly sweet experience.
Natural Treats Wiltshire - Raw Dog Food Store
3.8 km
Premium raw dog food and natural treats in Melksham, serving conscious pet owners with expert nutrition guidance.
Emery Gate Shopping Centre
4.9 km
Chippenham’s only covered shopping centre offering national brands, local shops, cafes, and ample parking in a convenient central location.
Willow Uk Ltd
4.9 km
Discover timeless gifts, antiques, and design inspiration at Willow UK Ltd, Corsham’s boutique blending art and heritage.
Previous Homewares
5.0 km
Discover quirky gifts, vintage treasures, and beautiful homewares at Corsham’s beloved boutique, Previous Homewares.
Wadswick Country Store
7.2 km
Wiltshire’s premier country store offering expert equestrian gear, outdoor clothing, and rural lifestyle essentials in a scenic countryside setting.
The Gift Box
8.5 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish fashion accessories in a charming Calne boutique with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Luca & Fig
16.8 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home furnishings in Bath’s charming Luca & Fig boutique, where creativity meets quality.
The Antique Map Shop
16.9 km
Discover rare antique maps and prints in a historic shop set on Bath’s iconic Pulteney Bridge, blending history with timeless charm.
TILLIUS
16.9 km
Discover unique gifts in TILLIUS, a charming boutique nestled on Bath’s iconic Georgian Pulteney Bridge, blending history with distinctive finds.
Wadswick - Bath
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Orange Grove Gifts and Souvenirs
16.9 km
Discover unique Bath-inspired gifts and souvenirs in a friendly, welcoming shop nestled in the heart of the historic city.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Three Crowns
4.6 km
A lively, traditional pub in Chippenham known for real ales, live music, and a welcoming community spirit.
The George Inn
4.7 km
A classic village pub in Sandy Lane offering hearty home-cooked meals, cozy rooms, and warm local hospitality.
Westbrook Inn
4.7 km
Charming countryside pub near Chippenham offering extensive vegan options, hearty meals, and a warm, relaxed atmosphere.
The Flying Monk
4.8 km
A friendly and lively pub in Chippenham’s Market Place, renowned for craft ales, community events, and warm hospitality.
The Cellar by Wine Monkey
4.9 km
A boutique wine bar and shop in Chippenham offering expertly curated wines, small plates, and a cozy, stylish atmosphere for wine lovers.
Old Road Tavern
5.4 km
A traditional Chippenham pub with quality ales, lively music, and a welcoming garden, cherished by locals and visitors alike.
Melt Bars - Mobile Event & Cocktail Bars
8.1 km
Bespoke handcrafted mobile bars and expert cocktail service tailored for events across the UK from Chippenham’s premier specialists.
The Quarrymans Arms, Box Hill
8.3 km
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The Ivy Inn
8.5 km
A traditional Wiltshire pub offering cozy charm, fresh food, real ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Heddington.
The Wellesley Arms
10.5 km
Historic coaching inn turned gastropub offering hearty British fare and cozy village charm in Sutton Benger near Chippenham.
The Full Glass Bar
11.7 km
Historic charm meets modern luxury at The Full Glass Bar, a refined cocktail and wine haven in Castle Combe’s iconic Manor House.
The White Horse Inn
12.6 km
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Henrietta Restaurant, Bar & Garden
16.7 km
Elegant dining and classic Afternoon Tea in a charming historic villa with a tranquil garden terrace in the heart of Bathwick.
Opium Bar
16.8 km
Discover vintage charm and expertly crafted cocktails in Bath’s secretive vaults beneath Grove Street.
Walcot House
16.9 km
A stylish fusion of historic charm, seasonal dining, craft cocktails, and vibrant nightlife in the heart of Bath’s Walcot Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
E11evn's Nightclub
5.0 km
A lively late-night hotspot in Chippenham offering weekend clubbing with a spirited local vibe and energetic dance floors.
The Tub
14.9 km
A vibrant student nightclub on University of Bath campus, perfect for dancing, socializing, and late-night fun in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
16.8 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub with four unique rooms, eclectic music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Lomah
16.9 km
Experience Bath’s industrial-chic nightlife at Lomah, a stylish underground club with hip hop beats and a laidback vibe for 21+ guests.
Second Bridge
16.9 km
A lively nightclub in Bath offering cocktails, shisha, and a buzzing beer garden for vibrant nightlife experiences.
Zero / Zero
17.0 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Zero / Zero, a cozy nightclub and cocktail lounge with a lively atmosphere and late-night beats.
Sub 13
17.1 km
Bath’s award-winning cocktail bar and nightclub offering masterclasses, vibrant nightlife, and a heated terrace in a stylish three-floor venue.
Komedia
17.2 km
Bath’s vibrant community-owned venue offering comedy, live music, cabaret, and more in a beautifully restored historic cinema.
Venue Five-0 Night Club
20.7 km
Energetic weekend nights and diverse music await at Venue Five-0 Night Club, Royal Wootton Bassett’s lively nightlife hotspot.
Dare to Club
31.8 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
Motion
31.8 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
The Loco Klub
32.3 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
Lakota
33.0 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
Thekla
33.1 km
A converted cargo ship transformed into Bristol’s compact, industrial live-music venue and late-night club, famed for close-up shows and throbbing club nights.
Popworld - Bristol
33.3 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
