Claydon Estate: Historic Georgian Courtyard and National Trust House in Buckinghamshire
Discover the charm of Claydon Estate’s Georgian courtyard, historic National Trust house, and tranquil Buckinghamshire countryside.
Claydon Estate in Buckinghamshire is a captivating country estate featuring an 18th-century Georgian courtyard with independent shops and the Phoenix Kitchen eatery. The estate also includes the National Trust’s Claydon House, an exquisite Grade I listed country house with lavish 18th-century interiors and strong historical ties to the Verney family and Florence Nightingale. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, local food, and explore heritage buildings in a tranquil rural setting.
A brief summary to Claydon Estate
- Claydon Courtyard, Buckingham, MK18 2EY, GB
- +441296730252
- 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
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Phoenix Kitchen in Claydon Courtyard for fresh, locally sourced meals and afternoon tea.
- Explore the National Trust Claydon House to see lavish 18th-century interiors and Florence Nightingale’s rooms.
- Enjoy peaceful walks and cycling on public bridleways and National Cycle Network Route 51 around the estate.
- Parking is free for visitors; dogs on leads are welcome in the courtyard and estate grounds.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By Car
Driving from central London, Claydon Estate is under 60 miles via the M40 junction 9 and A41. Signposted from A413 (Buckingham) and A41 (Waddesdon crossroads), parking is free on-site. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic; note some narrow roads and local roadworks.
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By Train
Nearest train stations include Aylesbury Parkway (approx. 13 miles), Bicester North (13.5 miles), and Milton Keynes Central (17 miles). Taxi or local bus services can connect you from these stations to the estate, with taxi rides typically taking 30–40 minutes.
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By Bicycle
Cyclists can access Claydon Estate via National Cycle Network Route 51, which runs nearby. The terrain is mostly gentle countryside roads and bridleways, suitable for moderate cycling. Bike storage facilities are available at the courtyard.
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Walking
For local visitors, public footpaths and bridleways cross the estate, offering scenic walking routes. Terrain is mostly flat and accessible, but some paths may be uneven; suitable footwear is recommended.
Claydon Estate location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Claydon Estate
A Living Georgian Courtyard at the Heart of Claydon Estate
Claydon Estate’s historic courtyard, known as Claydon Courtyard, was once the bustling hub of estate life, housing workshops, stables, coach houses, and staff quarters. Today, this beautifully preserved brick-built Georgian stable block forms an inviting open space where visitors can eat, shop, and relax. The courtyard is home to a variety of independent local businesses offering unique crafts, gifts, and spa experiences. The Phoenix Kitchen, located within the courtyard, serves fresh, wholesome, locally sourced food year-round, from coffee and lunch to afternoon tea, creating a welcoming atmosphere amid the estate’s peaceful surroundings.Claydon House: An 18th-Century Architectural Gem
Claydon House, owned by the National Trust, stands as a magnificent example of Georgian architecture and design. Built between 1757 and 1771 by Ralph Verney, 2nd Earl Verney, the house was intended to rival grand neighbouring estates. Although financial difficulties curtailed its original ambitious scale, the remaining structure boasts some of the most lavish and ambitious interiors of the 18th century, including rococo and chinoiserie decorations, a special Chinese Room, and a grand staircase with exquisite parquetry. The house has been the ancestral home of the Verney family since 1620 and contains many family memorials, including those related to Florence Nightingale, who spent many summers here.Historical Significance and Family Legacy
The estate’s history stretches back to the Tudor period, with the manor of Middle Claydon purchased by Sir Ralph Verney in 1463. The Verney family’s long association with the estate is reflected in the house and nearby All Saints Church, which holds memorials to family members such as Sir Edmund Verney, a Civil War figure. Florence Nightingale’s connection through her sister Parthenope, Lady Verney, adds a poignant historical layer, with visitors able to see rooms where Nightingale stayed and learn about her legacy.Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
Set in the tranquil Buckinghamshire countryside, Claydon Estate offers scenic walks, cycling routes, and bridleways that cross the grounds. The South Lawn and West Terrace provide idyllic picnic spots with views over parkland and a lake, enhancing the estate’s appeal as a peaceful nature escape. The estate encourages visitors to enjoy the outdoors responsibly, following the Countryside Code and keeping dogs on leads.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors to Claydon Estate benefit from free parking and accessible facilities, including adapted toilets and designated parking bays. The estate’s businesses and Phoenix Kitchen operate Thursday through Monday, 10am to 4pm, welcoming guests to a blend of heritage, shopping, dining, and relaxation. The estate also hosts events and offers venue hire for weddings and corporate functions, making it a versatile destination.Exploring the Surrounding Area
Located near the village of Middle Claydon, the estate is within reach of other Buckinghamshire attractions and towns, with nearby train stations such as Aylesbury Parkway and Bicester North providing access for travelers. The estate’s setting offers a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, ideal for day trips or weekend getaways in the English countryside.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blue Plaque: J.R.R. Tolkien
26.9 km
The Oxford home where Tolkien wrote The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, marked by a historic blue plaque.
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
27.5 km
Explore the captivating Oxford University Museum of Natural History, where science and history come alive in a stunning architectural setting.
Magdalen Bridge
27.6 km
Historic stone bridge over the River Cherwell, blending centuries of architecture, culture, and Oxford traditions.
City Sightseeing Oxford
27.7 km
Discover Oxford’s rich history and stunning architecture with City Sightseeing Oxford’s immersive bus tours for an unforgettable travel experience.
The Oxford Ghost Tour
27.7 km
Discover the haunted history of Oxford with The Oxford Ghost Tour, where chilling stories and eerie legends await every curious traveler.
Oxford Botanic Garden
27.7 km
Explore the Oxford Botanic Garden, the oldest botanic garden in the UK, where diverse plant species and serene landscapes await your discovery.
New College Ln
27.7 km
Explore the enchanting New College Lane in Oxford, where history, architecture, and student life come together in a picturesque setting.
The Queen's College
27.7 km
Baroque splendour on Oxford's High Street—a historic college of architectural excellence and academic prestige.
Bridge of Sighs
27.7 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Weston Library
27.8 km
Explore the Weston Library in Oxford - a cultural gem featuring rare manuscripts, stunning architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere for book lovers.
Clarendon Building
27.8 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Bodleian Library
27.8 km
Discover the Bodleian Library, an iconic historical landmark in Oxford, home to millions of texts and a hub for cultural events and tours.
Bodleian Old Library
27.8 km
Discover the Bodleian Old Library, a historic treasure in Oxford, steeped in knowledge and architectural beauty, inviting all to explore its literary wonders.
The Sheldonian Theatre
27.8 km
Explore the architectural beauty and cultural significance of The Sheldonian Theatre, a historic performing arts gem in the heart of Oxford.
Radcliffe Camera
27.8 km
A majestic 18th-century neoclassical rotunda, the Radcliffe Camera is Oxford’s iconic library landmark and a symbol of academic heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Claydon
0.0 km
Discover the grandeur of Georgian Claydon House and vibrant Courtyard nestled in Buckinghamshire’s historic countryside.
Finemere Wood
3.7 km
Explore Finemere Wood, an ancient Buckinghamshire woodland alive with history, wildflowers, butterflies, and tranquil nature walks.
Quainton Windmill
5.8 km
Historic 19th-century tower windmill in Quainton, beautifully restored and still producing flour in Buckinghamshire’s charming countryside.
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre
6.6 km
Step back in time at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, where historic steam trains, a stunning glass-roofed Visitor Centre, and family events bring railway heritage to life.
St Rumbold's Well
8.7 km
Discover the ancient sacred spring of Saint Rumbold, a medieval pilgrimage site steeped in legend and local heritage in Buckingham.
Waddesdon Manor
8.9 km
Explore the grandeur of Waddesdon Manor, a French Renaissance château with stunning gardens, rich art collections, and vibrant cultural events in Buckinghamshire.
National Trust - Buckingham Chantry Chapel
9.0 km
Discover Buckingham’s oldest building, a medieval chapel with a Norman doorway, rich history, and a charming second-hand bookshop.
Buckinghamshire Military Museum Trust
9.0 km
Explore centuries of Buckinghamshire’s military heritage within the historic Old Gaol, a unique museum blending local history and immersive exhibits.
Buckingham Old Gaol
9.0 km
Explore Buckingham’s historic former prison, a compact museum revealing the town’s rich social and legal heritage through immersive exhibits.
Flint House, Buckinghamshire
10.3 km
Discover Waddesdon Manor’s grand French Renaissance architecture, exquisite art collections, and enchanting Victorian gardens in the heart of Buckinghamshire.
Pebble Alcove
12.4 km
Explore Pebble Alcove in Buckingham, a stunning landmark that combines unique architecture with serene natural beauty for a perfect getaway.
National Trust - Stowe Gardens
12.5 km
A masterpiece of 18th-century landscape design, where classical temples rise from sweeping parkland and serpentine lakes.
Temple of British Worthies
12.6 km
Discover the Temple of British Worthies in Buckingham, a landmark celebrating revered figures of British history amidst beautiful gardens.
Gothic Temple
12.8 km
Experience the charm and architectural beauty of the Gothic Temple, an iconic landmark in Buckingham that transports you to a romantic past.
Bicester Heritage
12.8 km
Explore the UK’s premier historic motoring campus where vintage cars, aviation heritage, and passionate craftsmanship come alive.
Essential places to dine
The Old Thatched Inn
5.1 km
A charming thatched gastropub in Adstock offering quality local cuisine and cozy countryside ambiance.
The Pilgrim Pub
6.1 km
A Michelin Guide village pub in North Marston serving seasonal local dishes with a warm community spirit and inviting beer garden.
CANALETTO
7.0 km
Authentic Italian dining with Mediterranean charm in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on Bicester Road, Kingswood.
Beefeater Buckingham
7.6 km
Classic British steakhouse and family-friendly grill in Buckingham offering hearty meals, welcoming service, and a lively casual atmosphere.
Allium Dining
8.2 km
Intimate farm-to-table dining in Buckinghamshire, where seasonal British produce meets creative culinary artistry.
The Five Arrows
8.7 km
Boutique neo-Tudor charm with refined dining and peaceful gardens beside historic Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire.
The Bell At Hardwick, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire
10.5 km
A charming gastropub blending traditional British hospitality with modern dining in the heart of Hardwick village.
Miller & Carter Aylesbury
11.9 km
Savor expertly aged steaks in a spacious, welcoming setting with attentive service at Miller & Carter Aylesbury.
Cecconi's Bicester
14.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and artisanal dishes in the stylish heart of Bicester Village.
Seven Stars
15.3 km
Historic charm meets warm hospitality and delicious English cuisine in the heart of Ledbury at The Seven Stars pub and hotel.
Rococo Lounge
15.4 km
Aylesbury’s eclectic lounge blending British classics with vegan and gluten-free delights in a funky, family-friendly setting.
Glaze Steakhouse
15.4 km
Aylesbury’s upscale steakhouse delivering expertly cooked prime cuts in a stylish bar and grill setting with personalized service.
Broad Leys - Aylesbury
16.2 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort at The Broad Leys, a welcoming pub and guesthouse just outside Aylesbury town centre.
Nut Tree Inn
16.4 km
Michelin-starred fine dining meets historic charm in the heart of Oxfordshire’s countryside at The Nut Tree Inn.
The Angel Restaurant
16.7 km
A charming seafood restaurant in Long Crendon blending historic ambiance with fresh, creative cuisine and warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Beautifully Different Winslow
5.5 km
Discover original flair and stylish ladies' fashion at Beautifully Different Winslow, a charming boutique in the heart of Buckinghamshire’s historic market town.
Meadow Walk Shopping Centre
9.0 km
A charming compact shopping centre in Buckingham featuring independent shops, cafes, and convenient parking in a friendly community setting.
Rabbit Retail
13.9 km
A charming boutique in Aylesbury offering unique gifts, eco-friendly products, and expert care for rabbits and their devoted owners.
B&M Home Store
15.0 km
Affordable home goods and furniture with convenient shopping hours in the heart of Aylesbury’s retail park.
Aylesbury Shopping Park
15.1 km
Aylesbury Shopping Park offers diverse shops, eateries, and leisure facilities just minutes from town centre with convenient parking and family-friendly amenities.
The Vintage Shop
15.1 km
Discover timeless antiques and unique vintage treasures in Aylesbury’s welcoming and affordable Vintage Shop.
Shop of magical requirements
15.1 km
Discover a whimsical world of magical memorabilia and enchanting treasures at Aylesbury’s unique Shop of Magical Requirements.
The Works
15.3 km
Discover affordable arts, crafts, books, and gifts for all ages at The Works in Aylesbury’s Hale Leys Shopping Centre.
Hale Leys Shopping Centre
15.3 km
A historic and vibrant shopping centre in Aylesbury, blending heritage architecture with diverse retail and dining experiences.
One Beyond Aylesbury
15.3 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a vast range of essentials at One Beyond Aylesbury, your go-to discount store in the heart of Hale Leys.
House of Fraser
15.3 km
A central department store in Aylesbury’s Friars Square offering diverse fashion, homewares, and beauty products with a welcoming shopping environment.
Friars Square Shopping Centre
15.3 km
Aylesbury’s premier shopping destination offering diverse stores, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
Aylesbury Eco Store
15.4 km
Discover sustainable, zero-waste shopping at Aylesbury Eco Store, your local hub for eco-friendly living on High Street.
QD Aylesbury
15.4 km
Affordable home, garden, and lifestyle essentials with unique finds and community spirit in the heart of Aylesbury.
Mrs B's Emporium
18.4 km
Discover quirky gifts, handmade candles, and unique homewares in a cozy, friendly shop nestled in Wolverton’s historic Church Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Kings Head Coffee & Gin Bar
9.1 km
Historic pub meets vibrant coffee and gin bar with a sunny courtyard garden in the heart of Buckingham’s Market Hill.
The Grand Junction
9.1 km
A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired pub in Buckingham with wood-fired pizzas, cozy bar, private function room, and charming courtyard dining.
Cotton Wheel
12.9 km
Aylesbury’s friendly neighborhood pub serving fresh, affordable food and drinks in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Watermead Inn
14.3 km
A charming lakeside pub in Aylesbury offering hearty British and international dishes with friendly service and scenic views.
Emperors Lounge
15.1 km
Lively late-night bar in Aylesbury with great music, friendly staff, and a vibrant dance floor for an unforgettable night out.
The Rockwood
15.1 km
A warm, contemporary pub in Aylesbury blending traditional charm with fresh local flavors and lively community spirit.
The Feathers Aylesbury
15.1 km
A lively Aylesbury pub blending traditional charm, modern sports viewing, and vibrant entertainment in the heart of Kingsbury Square.
The King's Head, Aylesbury
15.2 km
Historic 15th-century coaching inn in Aylesbury with authentic Chiltern Brewery ales, hearty British fare, and a charming cobbled courtyard.
The Bugle Horn
15.3 km
A charming and cozy country pub in Hartwell serving hearty British classics with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Craftyard Aylesbury
15.5 km
A stylish, family-run craft beer and gin bar in Aylesbury with an industrial-chic vibe inspired by London’s vibrant streets.
Old Millwrights Arms
15.9 km
A lively, dog-friendly Aylesbury pub serving hearty roasts, wood-fired pizzas, and a fine selection of ales in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Jolly Hucksters Ltd- Mobile Bar Company
16.9 km
Milton Keynes’ trusted family-run mobile bar, delivering bespoke drink experiences and exceptional service to weddings and events.
Buckinghamshire Yeoman
17.4 km
A lively, family- and pet-friendly pub in Aylesbury offering hearty meals, great sports viewing, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
Be At One - Milton Keynes
18.4 km
Discover over 100 expertly crafted cocktails and vibrant nightlife energy at Be At One, Milton Keynes’ premier cocktail bar in The Hub.
The Oak, Aston Clinton
20.4 km
A historic 500-year-old thatched village pub offering rustic home-cooked meals, local ales, and warm family hospitality in scenic Aston Clinton.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mirage Aylesbury
15.0 km
Experience Aylesbury’s vibrant nightlife at Mirage, a lively nightclub offering music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of town.
Pink Punters
18.6 km
Milton Keynes’ dynamic multi-room nightclub blending diverse music, vibrant crowds, and a lively late-night party atmosphere.
Garudaa
18.6 km
A spacious, welcoming gentlemen’s club in Milton Keynes offering VIP areas, game rooms, and late-night entertainment in a relaxed, darkly lit setting.
TWC
20.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Fever Oxford
28.0 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
Plush Oxford
28.1 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
The Bridge Nightclub
28.4 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Oxford Leisure Ltd
28.5 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
ATIK Oxford
28.5 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Kiss Bar
28.5 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
Penthouse Playrooms
29.4 km
A vibrant adult nightclub in Dunstable offering themed events and lively weekend entertainment for an energetic night out.
Stereo Bar and Club
35.1 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with eclectic music, lively dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere at Stereo Bar and Club.
NB's
35.1 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with NB's lively clubbing atmosphere, multiple rooms, and sociable outdoor bar area.
Elysium
35.1 km
Northampton’s premier late-night nightclub for house, bass, and tech house music, famed as the city’s official after-party hotspot.
Club43
35.2 km
Northampton’s vibrant underground nightclub offering top electronic acts and a soulful, energetic nightlife experience.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
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
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
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