The Tabley House Stately Home
Explore Tabley House, Cheshire’s finest 18th-century Palladian mansion with historic art, elegant interiors, a 17th-century chapel, and charming tea rooms.
Tabley House is an exquisite 18th-century Palladian mansion near Knutsford, Cheshire, designed by John Carr for Sir Peter Byrne Leicester. This Grade I listed country house showcases a remarkable collection of English paintings by masters like Turner and Reynolds, alongside fine furniture by Gillow and Chippendale. Visitors can explore the elegant state rooms, a 17th-century chapel with Burne-Jones stained glass, and enjoy refreshments in the charming tea room set in historic surroundings.
A brief summary to The Tabley House Stately Home
- Tabley House/Tabley Lane, Knutsford, Tabley, WA16 0HB, GB
- +441565750151
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 1 pm-5 pm
- Friday 1 pm-5 pm
- Saturday 1 pm-5 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit between April and October on Thursdays to Sundays and Bank Holidays for public access to the house and collection.
- Enjoy homemade cakes and traditional afternoon tea in the historic Tabley Tea Rooms adjacent to St Peter’s Chapel.
- Photography is not allowed inside the galleries; wear comfortable shoes as some areas have steps and limited wheelchair access.
- Check opening times before visiting, as the house is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays.
- Guide dogs are welcome on the grounds, but pets are not allowed inside the house or facilities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Knutsford town centre to Tabley House takes approximately 10-15 minutes via local roads. Free parking is available on-site but limited for coaches. Note that some rural roads may be narrow and signage limited.
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Bus
Local bus services run from Knutsford to nearby stops within 2-3 km of Tabley House. From the bus stop, a 30-40 minute walk on country lanes leads to the estate. Bus frequency varies, so check schedules in advance.
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Taxi
Taxis from Knutsford to Tabley House typically take 10 minutes. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to walk from bus stops or drive yourself. Taxi fares range from £10 to £15.
The Tabley House Stately Home location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Tabley House Stately Home
A Masterpiece of Palladian Architecture in Cheshire
Tabley House stands as the finest example of 18th-century Palladian architecture in northwest England. Designed by the renowned architect John Carr of York and completed in 1767, the house was built for Sir Peter Byrne Leicester to replace the older Tabley Old Hall. Constructed in red brick with stone dressings, it features a grand sandstone portico on its south front and symmetrical pavilion wings connected by elegant curved corridors. The house’s architectural harmony and classical proportions reflect the ideals of Palladian design, making it a significant heritage landmark in Cheshire.Rich Artistic and Historical Interiors
The interiors of Tabley House are a treasure trove of English art and craftsmanship. The state rooms open to the public display one of the earliest and finest collections of English paintings, including works by J.M.W. Turner, Sir Joshua Reynolds, Thomas Lawrence, and James Ward. These paintings were originally commissioned for the rooms they now adorn, preserving their historical context. The furniture collection features exquisite pieces by celebrated makers such as Gillow, Bullock, and Chippendale, alongside family memorabilia that narrate the Leicester family’s story through centuries.St Peter’s Chapel and Grounds
Adjacent to the house is the Grade I listed 17th-century St Peter’s Chapel, which was relocated in 1927 to protect it from subsidence caused by brine pumping. The chapel is renowned for its impressive stained glass windows, including a notable one designed by the Pre-Raphaelite artist Edward Burne-Jones. The chapel’s tranquil atmosphere complements the peaceful parkland setting of the estate, which includes historic ruins of the Old Hall and scenic walking paths.A Living Heritage and Cultural Venue
Tabley House remains a living monument to English country house culture. It has been used as a filming location for television productions, including a wedding scene in the BBC series Peaky Blinders. The house is managed by a trust and owned by the University of Manchester, with volunteer staff providing guided tours that offer in-depth insights into the house’s history and collections. The estate also hosts civil weddings and naming ceremonies, making it a cherished venue for special occasions.The Tea Room Experience and Visitor Amenities
Visitors can enjoy refreshments in the charming Tabley Tea Rooms, located near the chapel. The tearoom offers homemade cakes, freshly brewed teas, light lunches, and traditional afternoon teas served in a historic setting with attentive table service. The venue is wheelchair accessible and offers a relaxing environment to soak in the estate’s ambiance. Parking is free but limited for coaches, and guide dogs are welcome on the grounds.Seasonal Access and Practical Information
Tabley House is open to visitors from April to October, Thursday through Sunday and on Bank Holiday Mondays, typically from 1 pm to 5 pm with last admission at 4:30 pm. Admission fees are modest, making it an accessible cultural experience. The house’s rural location offers a peaceful retreat from urban life, with opportunities for scenic walks and exploration of the surrounding Cheshire countryside.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Knutsford Obelisk
3.7 km
An 18th-century memorial obelisk honoring the Legh family, standing as a historic symbol amidst Knutsford’s rich heritage.
Sussex Road
15.0 km
Discover the charm of Cadishead at Sussex Road, your convenient gateway to local attractions and the vibrant culture of Manchester.
The Golden Gates
16.1 km
Victorian ironwork masterpiece with royal rejection and industrial heritage.
Warrington Transporter Bridge
16.2 km
Explore the world’s only rail transporter bridge, a striking industrial landmark spanning the River Mersey, embodying Warrington’s rich heritage.
Stretford Weir
17.5 km
Historic riverside weir on the Mersey offering scenic walks, flood management insight, and a peaceful nature escape near Manchester.
Norton Water Tower
17.5 km
A majestic Victorian water tower in Runcorn, blending historic engineering with enduring utility and striking red sandstone architecture.
St Clement's Parish Church
18.2 km
Victorian Gothic masterpiece with five centuries of spiritual heritage in Chorlton-cum-Hardy.
5 Sir Matt Busby Way
20.2 km
Old Trafford, the legendary Theatre of Dreams, is Manchester United’s iconic home since 1910, blending rich football history with modern innovation.
Barton Swing Aqueduct
20.3 km
Explore the world’s only swing aqueduct, a Victorian engineering marvel carrying the Bridgewater Canal over the Manchester Ship Canal since 1894.
Sky Hook Statue 1
20.6 km
Towering steel sculptures marking Trafford Park’s industrial heritage with humor and monumental design.
LS Lowry birthplace
20.9 km
Discover the humble origins of LS Lowry, the iconic painter of industrial Manchester, at his birthplace in Old Trafford.
St Peter's Square
21.0 km
Georgian heritage and green tranquility at the heart of historic Stockport.
The Quays
21.0 km
Explore The Quays, Greater Manchester’s vibrant waterfront with culture, sport, shopping, and stunning waterside views all in one dynamic destination.
Quayside Tours Meeting Point
21.0 km
Explore Salford's thriving waterfront and cultural treasures from the Quayside Tours Meeting Point, your gateway to unforgettable experiences.
Quayside MediaCityUK
21.1 km
Manchester’s only outlet mall on the scenic Salford waterfront, blending designer shopping, dining, and entertainment in a vibrant media hub.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cuckooland
0.7 km
Discover over 500 unique Black Forest cuckoo clocks in a charming historic setting with expert-led, appointment-only tours at Cuckooland Museum.
Knutsford Heritage Centre
2.8 km
Discover Knutsford’s rich heritage through exquisite tapestries, local traditions, and literary history in a welcoming community museum.
Gauntlet Birds of Prey – Eagle & Vulture Park, Knutsford
3.0 km
Discover the Northwest’s largest birds of prey sanctuary with thrilling flying displays, interactive talks, and family-friendly wildlife encounters in Knutsford.
Tatton Park Country Park
4.0 km
Explore 1,000 acres of stunning parkland, historic mansion, formal gardens, and a working farm in the heart of Cheshire’s Tatton Park.
National Trust - Tatton Park
4.2 km
Explore Tatton Park’s historic mansion, stunning gardens, working farm, and vast deer park in the heart of Cheshire’s countryside.
Tatton Hall
4.3 km
Explore the grandeur of Tatton Hall and the natural beauty of its 1,000-acre historic estate in Cheshire.
Lion Salt Works
5.9 km
Explore Cheshire’s historic salt-making heritage at the restored Lion Salt Works, a unique open-pan salt museum by the Trent and Mersey Canal.
Arley Hall & Gardens
6.0 km
Explore Arley Hall & Gardens: historic Victorian charm meets spectacular botanical artistry in Cheshire’s serene countryside.
Marbury Country Park
7.5 km
Explore historic woodlands, lakes, and family-friendly trails at Marbury Country Park, a tranquil green haven in Northwich.
Barons Quay
7.5 km
A modern shopping and leisure hub in the heart of Northwich, combining retail, dining, cinema and riverside charm in one convenient Cheshire destination.
Anderton Nature Park
7.7 km
A serene nature park on reclaimed industrial land beside the historic Anderton Boat Lift, perfect for accessible walks, wildlife spotting, and family outings.
Anderton Boat Lift Visitor Centre
8.1 km
Discover the world’s oldest working boat lift and enjoy interactive exhibits, scenic river cruises, and family-friendly fun at Anderton Boat Lift Visitor Centre.
Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement
9.3 km
Explore the iconic Lovell Telescope and immersive science exhibitions at Jodrell Bank, a UNESCO World Heritage Site blending astronomy with nature.
National Trust - Dunham Massey
9.7 km
Explore Dunham Massey’s grand Georgian mansion, vibrant gardens, and peaceful deer park nestled in 300 acres of historic Cheshire parkland.
Spud Wood
9.8 km
Discover Spud Wood, a peaceful Woodland Trust site near Lymm with accessible trails, canal views, and a welcoming natural retreat.
Essential places to dine
Bells of Peover
4.0 km
Historic Cheshire gastropub blending rustic charm with fresh, seasonal dining in a picturesque countryside setting near Knutsford.
Dun Cow
5.0 km
A charming family-run gastropub near Knutsford offering hearty British classics and quality ales in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Cock O’ Budworth
6.9 km
Historic 400-year-old coaching inn with cosy snugs, open fires, and classic British fare in the heart of Great Budworth village.
The English Restaurant
8.4 km
Classic British chippy in Northwich serving hearty fish and chips with warm, friendly service in a casual setting.
The Yellow Broom Restaurant
10.8 km
Elegant countryside dining in Cheshire with superb cuisine, warm service, and a versatile venue for lunches, afternoon teas, and weddings.
La Boheme
11.0 km
A long-standing French bistro in Lymm serving rich, traditional dishes in a relaxed, unpretentious setting.
Spirit Restaurant & Lounge
14.8 km
Elegant contemporary British dining and versatile event venue set in the tranquil surroundings of Victoria Park, Warrington.
La Popote Restaurant
15.8 km
Michelin Guide-listed French restaurant offering casual fine dining in a charming converted barn with a secret garden in Cheshire’s countryside.
Bacchus Restaurant & Champagne Bar
17.4 km
Prestbury’s refined modern British dining with French flair, known for quality Sunday lunches and attentive service in a chic village setting.
No 4 Dine & Wine
18.2 km
Intimate modern European dining in Didsbury with seasonal menus, expert service, and genuine warmth.
Vale Royal Abbey Arms
18.6 km
Traditional Cheshire pub serving hearty British fare with vegan options, cozy fires, and friendly service in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Fishpool Inn
18.9 km
A warm, family-friendly gastropub in Northwich blending rustic charm with modern British cuisine and a scenic beer garden.
Pecks Restaurant
20.4 km
A refined British dining experience in Cheshire, blending seasonal flavors with a theatrical tasting menu and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
Turtle Bay Salford Quays
20.9 km
Escape to Caribbean flavors and reggae beats at Salford Quays' vibrant jerk pit and cocktail haven, moments from MediaCityUK.
Restaurant Next Door
20.9 km
Intimate modern British dining in a historic 17th-century timber-framed building with seasonal, locally sourced menus and expert wine pairings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cocaranti I Premium Womenswear Cheshire
2.8 km
Discover unique, premium womenswear in Knutsford’s charming independent boutique blending style, sustainability, and personalized service.
Twisted Earth
7.7 km
Discover gothic, hippy, and rock-inspired gifts and fashion at Twisted Earth, Northwich’s premier alternative shop.
Quirky Cute Boutique
11.6 km
Discover vintage charm and handmade fashion treasures at Altrincham’s creative hotspot, The Quirky Cute Boutique.
Cabin Boutique
15.1 km
Discover stylish women's fashion in a charming log cabin boutique nestled within Middlewich’s Hopley House Shopping Village.
Assortment Boutique Fashion and Home
15.9 km
A charming boutique in Warrington blending unique women's fashion with quirky homewares for a personalized shopping experience.
Dress Cheshire
17.5 km
Prestbury’s trusted boutique for authenticated pre-loved designer fashion, blending luxury, sustainability, and community charm.
Cheshire & Hampton Vintage Emporiums @ Lady heyes (SHOPS)
19.0 km
Explore timeless treasures and vintage charm at Cheshire & Hampton Vintage Emporiums nestled in the heart of Lady Heyes, Frodsham.
A Curious Collection
19.8 km
Discover Withington’s charming boutique gift shop offering unique, locally crafted treasures that celebrate Manchester’s creative spirit.
Crafts of Cheshire (Ltd)
19.8 km
Discover handmade gifts and holistic wellbeing products that inspire positivity through scent and colour in the heart of Crewe.
The Body Shop
20.9 km
Compact MediaCityUK branch of The Body Shop with core cruelty‑free ranges, seasonal gifts and refill options on the Salford Quays Quayside.
Flock and Gaggle
21.0 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and local artistry in MediaCity UK's creative gem, where independent makers shine amid Salford's quayside buzz.
Next Outlet
21.0 km
Discounted designer fashion, homewares and shoes in Salford Quays' bustling MediaCityUK hub – style-savvy shopping with premium brands at outlet prices.
M&S Outlet
21.0 km
Bargain-hunting haven in Salford Quays: M&S discounted fashion, homeware, and beauty amid MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
The Works
21.0 km
Unleash creativity at unbeatable prices: books, crafts, toys and more in Salford Quays' discount haven.
The Sweet Emporium
21.0 km
Discover UK's vastest sweet collection at The Sweet Emporium in MediaCityUK—a family-run paradise of nostalgic candies, retro treats, and global confections that sparks joy for every sweet tooth.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lost & Found Knutsford
2.7 km
A stylish bar and pub in historic Knutsford blending vibrant atmosphere with contemporary dining and drinks.
The Salty Dog
7.8 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub in Northwich offering great beer, live music, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Cheshire Tap
10.7 km
Discover Cheshire Tap, Altrincham’s cozy craft beer bar with top local ales, a lively atmosphere, and a spacious garden retreat.
The Botanist Alderley Edge
11.8 km
A lush botanical bar and grill in Alderley Edge blending seasonal cuisine, craft cocktails, and live music in a vibrant garden-inspired setting.
The Swettenham Arms
12.9 km
Traditional Cheshire country pub with scenic gardens, classic British fare, and a charming wedding venue in the heart of Swettenham village.
Bold Street House
15.9 km
A lively cocktail bar and coffee shop in Warrington offering expertly crafted drinks, delicious food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Beer Emporium
17.1 km
Discover Sandbach’s craft beer gem with a vast selection of ales, a cozy atmosphere, and a welcoming community spirit.
Fox & Barrel
19.3 km
Charming Cheshire country pub offering exceptional British fare, a welcoming atmosphere, and scenic beer garden in Cotebrook near Tarporley.
DV8 Bar & Lounge
19.8 km
A vibrant bar and lounge in Congleton offering excellent cocktails, hearty food, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming historic setting.
11 Central
21.0 km
Riverside bar in MediaCityUK serving craft brews and bites amid Salford's creative quayside energy—ideal for relaxed evenings with canal views.
Craftbrew
21.0 km
Salford Quays' craft beer haven: artisan brews, tapas, and coffee in industrial-chic style, from dawn brunch to midnight pours.
The Dockyard
21.1 km
Rugged dockside pub in MediaCityUK: cask ales, hearty pies, and industrial charm for after-work vibes and Quays camaraderie.
SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE Media City
21.1 km
Craft beer haven in MediaCityUK: house-brewed IPAs, pizzas, and lively vibes await at Seven Bro7hers' Salford outpost, perfect for post-work pints or casual hangs.
Matchstick Man
21.2 km
Waterside, budget-friendly pub serving hearty classics and live sport in a modern, family-friendly setting at Salford Quays.
Reflexion Lounge Manchester Shisha
21.5 km
Luxury glass-fronted shisha lounge on Salford Quays, blending waterfront views, flavorful hookahs, Moroccan teas, and plush VIP vibes for unforgettable evenings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Reflex & Babylon
15.7 km
Experience Warrington’s vibrant nightlife at Reflex & Babylon, a lively nightclub and bar blending energetic music with a welcoming atmosphere.
Babylon Retro Bar
15.7 km
Dive into Warrington’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic 80s and 90s tunes at Babylon Retro Bar, your weekend hotspot for music and fun.
3D Congleton
20.0 km
A vibrant and affordable nightclub in Congleton’s town centre, perfect for late-night dancing and fun weekends.
The Club
20.1 km
A lively nightclub and sports bar at Congleton’s heart, blending live music, casual vibes, and affordable fun.
The Establishment
22.4 km
A vibrant Widnes nightclub offering lively events, friendly staff, and a spacious venue for unforgettable nights out.
Ark Manchester
22.6 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Popworld Manchester
22.6 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Bliss Club Manchester
22.7 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
Kable
22.8 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
Viva Manchester
22.8 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Royal Vida Night Club
22.8 km
Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.
History Nightclub
22.9 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
FAC251 - Factory Manchester
23.0 km
Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.
42's
23.0 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Venue Nightclub
23.1 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- 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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
