Waddesdon Manor: A French Renaissance Jewel in Buckinghamshire
Discover Waddesdon Manor, a breathtaking French Renaissance château with exquisite art, gardens, and a rich Rothschild heritage in Buckinghamshire.
Waddesdon Manor is a stunning French Renaissance-style château near Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, built in the late 19th century by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild. It houses an exceptional collection of art, decorative objects, and Old Master paintings, set within expansive formal gardens, woodland playgrounds, and an ornate aviary. The manor offers visitors immersive cultural experiences including exhibitions, wine tastings, and historic tours, all surrounded by scenic English countryside views.
A brief summary to Waddesdon Manor
- Aylesbury, Waddesdon, HP18 0JH, GB
- +441296820414
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book timed tickets in advance for house admission, especially during weekends and holidays, to ensure entry.
- Visit the gardens early in the day for peaceful walks and to enjoy the seasonal carpet bedding displays.
- Try the Manor Restaurant or Stables Café for seasonal dishes and delightful afternoon teas inspired by Rothschild traditions.
- Use the seasonal shuttle bus from Aylesbury Vale Parkway station to the manor to avoid a 20-minute walk through countryside.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Shuttle Bus
Take a train from London Marylebone to Aylesbury Vale Parkway (approximately 1 hour). From there, use the seasonal free shuttle bus service (March to October) to reach Waddesdon Manor directly. The shuttle runs regularly during opening days. Tickets for the shuttle are included with manor admission.
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Car
Driving is recommended for convenience; Waddesdon Manor offers free parking with EV charging points. Travel time from London is about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic. Note that nearby HS2 roadworks may affect routes, so check traffic updates before departure.
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Local Bus
The Red Rose bus service 16 runs from Aylesbury to Marsh Gibbon via Waddesdon village, but operates infrequently and not on Sundays. From the village, visitors walk through the main gates to the Welcome Pavilion. This option suits flexible itineraries and those comfortable with walking.
Waddesdon Manor 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 Waddesdon Manor
A Vision of French Renaissance Elegance in the English Countryside
Waddesdon Manor was constructed between 1874 and 1885 by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild, a wealthy banker and art collector, who sought to create a grand residence inspired by the châteaux of the Loire Valley. This neo-Renaissance masterpiece stands out in England for its elaborate towers, spires, and ornate stonework, designed to impress guests and showcase the Rothschild family's extensive collections. The manor’s architecture reflects a blend of grandeur and meticulous craftsmanship, with lavish interiors featuring exquisite furnishings, tapestries, and a remarkable assortment of paintings by Dutch Masters, Reynolds, and Gainsborough.Immersive Art and Historical Collections
Inside the manor, visitors can explore a series of richly decorated rooms filled with treasures amassed over generations. Highlights include decorative arts, porcelain, and period furniture that tell stories of aristocratic life and the Rothschild legacy. The house also features a musical elephant automaton and authentic Victorian fittings that provide a glimpse into the lifestyle of the era’s elite. Guided tours and exhibitions deepen the experience, revealing the manor’s social history and its role as a hub for royalty, historians, and explorers during Baron Ferdinand’s time.Gardens and Grounds: A Botanical Masterpiece
Surrounding the manor are extensive formal gardens renowned for their Victorian horticulture, including the iconic carpet bedding—intricately planted floral mosaics that change with the seasons. Visitors can wander through themed areas such as the Parterre, Water Garden, and Eythrope Gardens, or enjoy the Woodland Playground designed for families. The aviary, completed in 1889, is a Rococo-style pavilion housing colorful birds, adding to the enchanting atmosphere of the grounds. The gardens offer tranquil walks with panoramic views of the Chiltern Hills and Oxfordshire countryside.Dining, Shopping, and Visitor Amenities
Waddesdon Manor provides several dining options including the Manor Restaurant, Stables Café, and food-to-go outlets, all serving seasonal and locally sourced fare. The gift and wine shops offer unique items inspired by the manor’s art collections and a selection of Rothschild wines, often accompanied by tastings. Facilities are family-friendly and accessible, with picnic areas, restrooms, and parking available. Throughout the year, the manor hosts special events such as festive afternoon teas, Christmas markets, and cultural celebrations that continue the tradition of hospitality.Access, Opening Times, and Visitor Experience
The manor and gardens are open Wednesday to Sunday and on Bank Holiday Mondays, with seasonal variations in house and grounds opening hours. Visitors can reach Waddesdon Manor by car, with ample free parking and EV charging points, or by train to Aylesbury Vale Parkway followed by a shuttle bus service in season. The estate is mostly wheelchair accessible and welcomes pets on short leads in the gardens. Typical visits last between two to three hours, allowing time to explore the house, gardens, aviary, and exhibitions at a relaxed pace.Continuing a Legacy of Culture and Conservation
Managed by the Rothschild Foundation on behalf of the National Trust, Waddesdon Manor is a protected heritage site dedicated to preserving its architectural splendor, art collections, and natural surroundings. All proceeds from the restaurants and shops support ongoing conservation efforts. The manor remains a vibrant cultural destination, blending history, art, and nature to offer visitors a uniquely immersive experience steeped in aristocratic tradition and English charm.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Magdalen Bridge
23.5 km
Historic stone bridge over the River Cherwell, blending centuries of architecture, culture, and Oxford traditions.
Blue Plaque: J.R.R. Tolkien
23.5 km
The Oxford home where Tolkien wrote The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, marked by a historic blue plaque.
City Sightseeing Oxford
23.7 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
23.7 km
Discover the haunted history of Oxford with The Oxford Ghost Tour, where chilling stories and eerie legends await every curious traveler.
The Queen's College
23.7 km
Baroque splendour on Oxford's High Street—a historic college of architectural excellence and academic prestige.
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
23.8 km
Explore the captivating Oxford University Museum of Natural History, where science and history come alive in a stunning architectural setting.
Wolvercote Cemetery
23.8 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Wolvercote Cemetery in Oxford, where notable figures rest amidst serene landscapes.
New College Ln
23.8 km
Explore the enchanting New College Lane in Oxford, where history, architecture, and student life come together in a picturesque setting.
Bridge of Sighs
23.8 km
An iconic covered bridge connecting Hertford College’s quadrangles, blending Gothic charm with Oxford’s academic spirit.
Bodleian Library
23.9 km
Discover the Bodleian Library, an iconic historical landmark in Oxford, home to millions of texts and a hub for cultural events and tours.
Clarendon Building
23.9 km
An iconic neoclassical landmark in Oxford’s academic heart, blending historic grandeur with university tradition on Broad Street.
Weston Library
23.9 km
Explore the Weston Library in Oxford - a cultural gem featuring rare manuscripts, stunning architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere for book lovers.
Bodleian Old Library
23.9 km
Discover the Bodleian Old Library, a historic treasure in Oxford, steeped in knowledge and architectural beauty, inviting all to explore its literary wonders.
Radcliffe Camera
23.9 km
A majestic 18th-century neoclassical rotunda, the Radcliffe Camera is Oxford’s iconic library landmark and a symbol of academic heritage.
University Church of St Mary the Virgin
23.9 km
Discover the stunning University Church of St Mary the Virgin in Oxford, a historical gem with breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Flint House, Buckinghamshire
1.5 km
Discover Waddesdon Manor’s grand French Renaissance architecture, exquisite art collections, and enchanting Victorian gardens in the heart of Buckinghamshire.
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre
2.6 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.
Quainton Windmill
4.0 km
Historic 19th-century tower windmill in Quainton, beautifully restored and still producing flour in Buckinghamshire’s charming countryside.
Finemere Wood
5.3 km
Explore Finemere Wood, an ancient Buckinghamshire woodland alive with history, wildflowers, butterflies, and tranquil nature walks.
Brill Windmill
8.4 km
Explore Brill Windmill, a majestic 17th-century post mill perched atop Buckinghamshire’s hills, embodying centuries of rural milling heritage and craftsmanship.
Discover Bucks Museum
8.9 km
Explore Buckinghamshire’s rich heritage and family-friendly interactive exhibits at Discover Bucks Museum in historic Aylesbury.
National Trust - Claydon
8.9 km
Discover the grandeur of Georgian Claydon House and vibrant Courtyard nestled in Buckinghamshire’s historic countryside.
Claydon Estate
8.9 km
Discover the charm of Claydon Estate’s Georgian courtyard, historic National Trust house, and tranquil Buckinghamshire countryside.
National Trust - Boarstall Tower
11.1 km
Explore Boarstall Tower, a stunning 14th-century moated gatehouse steeped in medieval legend and civil war history, set in serene Buckinghamshire gardens.
Waterperry House
14.5 km
Discover Waterperry House: a historic Georgian manor famed for its stunning frescoes, exquisite gardens, and rich horticultural heritage near Oxford.
Bicester Village
16.1 km
Luxury designer outlet village with 150+ boutiques, up to 70% off, and festive charm near Oxford.
Bicester Heritage
16.1 km
Explore the UK’s premier historic motoring campus where vintage cars, aviation heritage, and passionate craftsmanship come alive.
CHILTERNS NATURE - CHINNOR CHALK PITS
16.5 km
Explore the serene and fossil-rich Chinnor Chalk Pits, a geological gem nestled in the heart of the Chiltern Hills.
St Rumbold's Well
17.6 km
Discover the ancient sacred spring of Saint Rumbold, a medieval pilgrimage site steeped in legend and local heritage in Buckingham.
National Trust - Buckingham Chantry Chapel
17.9 km
Discover Buckingham’s oldest building, a medieval chapel with a Norman doorway, rich history, and a charming second-hand bookshop.
Essential places to dine
The Five Arrows
0.9 km
Boutique neo-Tudor charm with refined dining and peaceful gardens beside historic Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire.
CANALETTO
5.0 km
Authentic Italian dining with Mediterranean charm in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on Bicester Road, Kingswood.
Miller & Carter Aylesbury
5.4 km
Savor expertly aged steaks in a spacious, welcoming setting with attentive service at Miller & Carter Aylesbury.
Seven Stars
6.5 km
Historic charm meets warm hospitality and delicious English cuisine in the heart of Ledbury at The Seven Stars pub and hotel.
The Pilgrim Pub
7.5 km
A Michelin Guide village pub in North Marston serving seasonal local dishes with a warm community spirit and inviting beer garden.
The Bell At Hardwick, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire
7.7 km
A charming gastropub blending traditional British hospitality with modern dining in the heart of Hardwick village.
The Angel Restaurant
8.7 km
A charming seafood restaurant in Long Crendon blending historic ambiance with fresh, creative cuisine and warm hospitality.
Glaze Steakhouse
9.2 km
Aylesbury’s upscale steakhouse delivering expertly cooked prime cuts in a stylish bar and grill setting with personalized service.
Rococo Lounge
9.2 km
Aylesbury’s eclectic lounge blending British classics with vegan and gluten-free delights in a funky, family-friendly setting.
Broad Leys - Aylesbury
9.9 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort at The Broad Leys, a welcoming pub and guesthouse just outside Aylesbury town centre.
The Woolpack
12.0 km
A vibrant gastropub blending traditional British charm with modern dining in the heart of Stoke Mandeville.
The COURTYARD
12.2 km
A lively family-friendly restaurant and live music venue with BBQ, beer garden, and cocktail bar in the heart of Weston Turville.
The Five Bells
13.5 km
A welcoming British gastropub in Weston Turville offering hearty classics, friendly service, and a cozy village atmosphere.
The Old Thatched Inn
13.7 km
A charming thatched gastropub in Adstock offering quality local cuisine and cozy countryside ambiance.
The Chequers Inn
13.8 km
A refined fine dining pub in Weston Turville, where locally sourced ingredients meet culinary artistry in a warm, elegant setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rabbit Retail
7.4 km
A charming boutique in Aylesbury offering unique gifts, eco-friendly products, and expert care for rabbits and their devoted owners.
Shop of magical requirements
8.8 km
Discover a whimsical world of magical memorabilia and enchanting treasures at Aylesbury’s unique Shop of Magical Requirements.
The Vintage Shop
8.8 km
Discover timeless antiques and unique vintage treasures in Aylesbury’s welcoming and affordable Vintage Shop.
House of Fraser
9.0 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
9.1 km
Aylesbury’s premier shopping destination offering diverse stores, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
B&M Home Store
9.1 km
Affordable home goods and furniture with convenient shopping hours in the heart of Aylesbury’s retail park.
The Works
9.1 km
Discover affordable arts, crafts, books, and gifts for all ages at The Works in Aylesbury’s Hale Leys Shopping Centre.
One Beyond Aylesbury
9.1 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.
Aylesbury Shopping Park
9.1 km
Aylesbury Shopping Park offers diverse shops, eateries, and leisure facilities just minutes from town centre with convenient parking and family-friendly amenities.
Hale Leys Shopping Centre
9.1 km
A historic and vibrant shopping centre in Aylesbury, blending heritage architecture with diverse retail and dining experiences.
Aylesbury Eco Store
9.3 km
Discover sustainable, zero-waste shopping at Aylesbury Eco Store, your local hub for eco-friendly living on High Street.
QD Aylesbury
9.3 km
Affordable home, garden, and lifestyle essentials with unique finds and community spirit in the heart of Aylesbury.
Beautifully Different Winslow
11.7 km
Discover original flair and stylish ladies' fashion at Beautifully Different Winslow, a charming boutique in the heart of Buckinghamshire’s historic market town.
Crystal Willow
12.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Crystal Willow in Stoke Mandeville, the perfect stop for memorable souvenirs.
Number 1
16.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts in the heart of Wendover’s charming High Street at Number 1 gift shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cotton Wheel
6.7 km
Aylesbury’s friendly neighborhood pub serving fresh, affordable food and drinks in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Bugle Horn
7.7 km
A charming and cozy country pub in Hartwell serving hearty British classics with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Rockwood
8.9 km
A warm, contemporary pub in Aylesbury blending traditional charm with fresh local flavors and lively community spirit.
Emperors Lounge
8.9 km
Lively late-night bar in Aylesbury with great music, friendly staff, and a vibrant dance floor for an unforgettable night out.
The Feathers Aylesbury
9.0 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
9.0 km
Historic 15th-century coaching inn in Aylesbury with authentic Chiltern Brewery ales, hearty British fare, and a charming cobbled courtyard.
The Watermead Inn
9.1 km
A charming lakeside pub in Aylesbury offering hearty British and international dishes with friendly service and scenic views.
Craftyard Aylesbury
9.2 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
9.8 km
A lively, dog-friendly Aylesbury pub serving hearty roasts, wood-fired pizzas, and a fine selection of ales in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Buckinghamshire Yeoman
11.3 km
A lively, family- and pet-friendly pub in Aylesbury offering hearty meals, great sports viewing, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
The Swan
13.2 km
A charming traditional pub and inn in Little Kimble offering hearty fare, cozy rooms, and a warm welcome amidst scenic Buckinghamshire countryside.
Dukes Wine Bar
14.9 km
Cozy wine bar in Princes Risborough offering a curated wine list, creative menu, and charming courtyard for relaxed socializing.
The Oak, Aston Clinton
15.1 km
A historic 500-year-old thatched village pub offering rustic home-cooked meals, local ales, and warm family hospitality in scenic Aston Clinton.
The Kings Head Coffee & Gin Bar
18.0 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
18.0 km
A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired pub in Buckingham with wood-fired pizzas, cozy bar, private function room, and charming courtyard dining.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mirage Aylesbury
8.9 km
Experience Aylesbury’s vibrant nightlife at Mirage, a lively nightclub offering music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of town.
TWC
15.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Pink Punters
23.1 km
Milton Keynes’ dynamic multi-room nightclub blending diverse music, vibrant crowds, and a lively late-night party atmosphere.
Fever Oxford
24.2 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife at Fever, a multi-room nightclub blending live DJs, dynamic music, and a lively party atmosphere.
Plush Oxford
24.2 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife hotspot with great music, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere at Plush Oxford.
ATIK Oxford
24.7 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
The Bridge Nightclub
24.7 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
24.7 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
Kiss Bar
24.7 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
Garudaa
25.0 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.
The Venue, Bucks
27.0 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
27.0 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
Penthouse Playrooms
28.6 km
A vibrant adult nightclub in Dunstable offering themed events and lively weekend entertainment for an energetic night out.
Diligence
29.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
VOLTS NIGHT CLUB/ COPPER BAR
33.4 km
A vibrant nightlife hotspot in Hemel Hempstead, Volts Night Club offers energetic music, friendly staff, and a lively dance floor for unforgettable nights out.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Fun-filled
- 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
- Selfie Spots
- 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
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly