Stanway House & Fountain
A lived-in Jacobean manor with the world’s tallest gravity-fed fountain, set in a beautiful Cotswold water garden.
Stanway House is a stunning Jacobean manor in the Cotswolds, still lived in by the Earls of Wemyss. The house is surrounded by beautiful parkland and a remarkable 18th-century water garden, crowned by the world’s tallest gravity-fed fountain, which shoots 300 feet into the air. Visitors can explore the elegant interiors, wander through terraced lawns and formal canals, see a working watermill, and enjoy cream teas in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. The site combines centuries of history with a very English sense of charm and informality.
A brief summary to Stanway House
- Stanway House, Cheltenham, Stanway, GL54 5PQ, GB
- +441386584469
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the fountain times in advance; it runs for half an hour at 2:45pm and 4:00pm, so plan your visit to catch it in action.
- Visit on a weekday afternoon in summer when the house and gardens are open; avoid peak weekends if you prefer a quieter experience.
- Bring a camera: the fountain, water garden, tithe barn and house interiors all offer excellent photo opportunities, especially in good light.
- Allow time for cream tea in the tea room by the pond; it’s a lovely way to relax after exploring the house and gardens.
- Keep dogs on short leads; they are welcome in the gardens and house but should be well behaved around other visitors and resident animals.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By car from Cheltenham
From central Cheltenham, follow the A435 towards Broadway. After about 10 km, turn off for Stanway and follow signs to Stanway House. There is ample parking for cars and coaches on site, with a short walk from the car park to the house and gardens.
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By car from Broadway
From Broadway, take the B4077 towards Cheltenham and turn off for Stanway. The drive takes around 15 minutes. The estate has well-signposted access and plenty of parking, suitable for both private cars and coaches.
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By public transport
Take a train to Cheltenham Spa station, then a local bus or taxi to Stanway. The journey by taxi takes about 20 minutes. There is no direct public transport to the house, so a short taxi ride or pre-arranged transfer is recommended.
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Walking from nearby villages
From Toddington or Stanway village, a pleasant walk of 20–30 minutes leads to the house through quiet country lanes and footpaths. The route is mostly flat but can be muddy after rain; sturdy footwear is advisable.
Stanway House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Stanway House
A Jacobean Jewel in the Cotswolds
Stanway House stands as one of the most beautiful examples of a Jacobean manor in England, its honey-coloured Guiting stone glowing warmly in the Cotswold light. Built and expanded over centuries, the house has been home to the Tracy family and their descendants, the Earls of Wemyss, for more than 500 years, and it remains a lived-in family home rather than a museum. This gives the interiors a relaxed, authentic feel, with fine antique furniture, William Morris wallpaper, and historic rooms such as the great hall, drawing room, and old library. The house’s architecture reflects its long history, from its medieval roots to its Stuart-era south front and later additions, all arranged in an elegant L-plan around a central courtyard.The World’s Tallest Gravity Fountain
The gardens at Stanway are dominated by one of the most impressive water features in the country: a single-jet fountain that rises 300 feet (about 91 metres) into the air, making it the tallest gravity-fed fountain in the world. Set in a formal canal on a terrace above the house, the fountain is the centrepiece of an 18th-century water garden that was likely designed by Charles Bridgeman, one of Britain’s greatest landscape gardeners. The garden unfolds in a series of terraced lawns, a rare grasswork, and a pyramid that once marked the head of a long cascade. The fountain operates at set times each afternoon, creating a dramatic spectacle that draws visitors from across the region.Water Garden, Mill and Ancient Barn
Beyond the fountain, the water garden includes a restored canal, several ponds, and sections of the original cascade, with plans to fully restore the upper cascade and its pools. A short walk leads to the fully restored watermill, which still works as a flour mill and offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional rural industry. Nearby stands the 14th-century tithe barn, built for Tewkesbury Abbey and later restored by Sir Philip Stott. Its massive rafters and undulating stone-slate roof give it a sense of grandeur and age, and it now serves as a striking backdrop to the lower garden and pond. Together, these elements create a landscape that feels both historic and harmonious.A Lived-In Estate with English Charm
What sets Stanway apart is its atmosphere of quiet, lived-in elegance. The house is not polished to perfection; instead, it shows the marks of generations of family life, from slightly worn carpets to personal touches in the rooms. Guides and stewards are present but unobtrusive, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. The estate also includes parkland, specimen trees, and avenues that frame views across the Severn Vale, enhancing the sense of a carefully managed, almost magical English landscape. Dogs are welcome on leads, and the grounds are particularly pleasant on warm days, with plenty of shade and open space for children to enjoy.Visiting the House and Grounds
Stanway is open to the public on selected afternoons in summer, with separate admission for the house and fountain & gardens. Afternoon cream teas, homemade cakes, and locally produced ice cream are available in the tea room, often enjoyed by the pond near the tithe barn. The site is popular with couples, families, and garden enthusiasts, and it is especially rewarding for those interested in historic houses, landscape design, and traditional craftsmanship. Whether you come for the fountain’s spectacle, the house’s interiors, or the peaceful Cotswold setting, Stanway offers a memorable and distinctly English experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cotswold Journeys
10.4 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds on expertly crafted walking tours with seamless logistics and charming local stays.
World Walks (inc. Cotswold Journeys, British & Irish Walks)
10.4 km
Explore the captivating beauty of the Cotswolds with World Walks, your gateway to unforgettable guided walking tours across Britain and Ireland.
West Banqueting House
11.6 km
Experience the grandeur of Jacobean England in West Banqueting House, a beautifully preserved historic retreat in the heart of Chipping Campden.
Old Campden House
11.6 km
Explore the evocative ruins and Jacobean heritage of Old Campden House, a grand 17th-century mansion touched by history and time.
The Hare and the Minotaur
15.1 km
Explore the Hare and the Minotaur sculpture in Cheltenham – a perfect blend of art, mythology, and nature that captivates every visitor.
Royal Cres
15.2 km
Explore Cheltenham's stunning Regency architecture, vibrant festivals, and lush parks in the heart of the Cotswolds, perfect for every type of traveler.
Winston Churchill Memorial Gardens
15.2 km
Explore the beautiful Winston Churchill Memorial Gardens in Cheltenham, a peaceful retreat filled with lush landscapes and rich historical significance.
The Neptune Fountain
15.3 km
Experience the beauty and history of The Neptune Fountain, a stunning landmark in Cheltenham that enchants visitors with its artistic elegance.
National Trust - Hidcote
15.4 km
Explore Hidcote Gardens, a masterpiece of garden design in the Cotswolds, featuring stunning landscapes and rich horticultural history.
Gustav Holst Statue & Planets Fountain
15.4 km
Experience the artistic charm of Cheltenham at the Gustav Holst Statue & Planets Fountain, a tribute to the composer and his celestial works.
Montpellier Gardens
15.7 km
Explore the beauty and tranquility of Montpellier Gardens, a charming park in Cheltenham adorned with stunning floral displays and serene pathways.
Greystones Farm Nature Reserve
16.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Greystones Farm Nature Reserve in the Cotswolds, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and families.
The Model Village
16.0 km
Experience the enchanting world of The Model Village, a miniature gem in Bourton-on-the-Water, capturing the essence of Cotswold charm.
The Dragonfly Maze
16.2 km
Explore the whimsical pathways of The Dragonfly Maze in Bourton-on-the-Water, a serene adventure for nature lovers and families alike.
Tewkesbury Abbey
17.0 km
Explore Tewkesbury Abbey, a stunning medieval masterpiece rich in history and breathtaking architecture, nestled in the heart of Tewkesbury.
Unmissable attractions to see
Shenberrow Hill
2.1 km
Discover Shenberrow Hill’s tranquil landscapes and charming village atmosphere on the scenic edge of the Cotswolds.
Hailes Church
2.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Hailes Church in Cheltenham, a true gem nestled in the picturesque Cotswolds.
Hailes Abbey
2.6 km
Explore the tranquil ruins of 13th-century Hailes Abbey, a captivating Cistercian site steeped in medieval history and set in peaceful Cotswold countryside.
Snowshill
3.8 km
Discover Snowshill, a charming Cotswold village where historic manor, vibrant gardens, and lavender fields create a serene and captivating escape.
National Trust - Snowshill Manor and Garden
3.8 km
Discover the enchanting 16th-century manor and whimsical Arts and Crafts garden of Charles Wade’s eclectic collection in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway
4.4 km
Step aboard vintage steam trains through the scenic Cotswolds on a 28-mile heritage railway journey filled with history, charm, and community spirit.
Cotswold Lavender
4.7 km
Immerse yourself in the fragrant, scenic lavender fields of Cotswold Lavender, a seasonal farm experience in the heart of Snowshill’s countryside.
Winchcombe Museum
5.4 km
Discover Winchcombe’s rich history and artisan pottery heritage at this intimate museum in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Sudeley Castle Gardens
5.6 km
A Tudor jewel with 1,000 years of history, ten award-winning gardens, and royal connections in the Cotswolds.
Sudeley Castle
5.6 km
Explore a Tudor castle with royal tombs, award-winning gardens, and family adventures nestled in the scenic Cotswolds.
Explore Gloucestershire
5.9 km
Your friendly gateway to Gloucester’s rich history, events, and travel services, located inside the Museum of Gloucester.
Broadway Museum & Art Gallery
6.3 km
Discover Broadway’s rich history and vibrant artistic heritage in a charming 17th-century coaching inn museum nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Broadway
6.4 km
Explore Broadway, the enchanting jewel of the Cotswolds, where history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty await every traveler.
Broadway Tower
6.5 km
Explore Broadway Tower, a historical landmark in the Cotswolds offering stunning views and rich heritage in a picturesque setting.
Cotswold Farm Park
7.9 km
Meet rare British farm breeds and experience authentic countryside learning in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Essential places to dine
Buckland Manor
4.1 km
Elegant historic manor hotel with fine dining and tranquil gardens in the heart of the Cotswolds’ charming Broadway village.
5 North St
5.4 km
An intimate French dining experience in Winchcombe, blending innovative cuisine with cozy charm and unpretentious service.
Russell’s of Broadway
6.2 km
Elegant boutique hotel and acclaimed restaurant blending historic charm with refined British cuisine in the heart of Broadway, Cotswolds.
The Halfway at Kineton
6.8 km
A charming 17th-century Cotswold pub blending rustic ambiance with refined seasonal British cuisine and warm hospitality.
The Shed
8.1 km
A relaxed Cotswold bar and restaurant with roaring fires, local food, and a convivial atmosphere, perfect for drinks, light meals, and easygoing evenings.
The Back Garden
8.1 km
Elegant garden-inspired dining at Dormy House, blending Cotswold produce with Mediterranean flair in a sunlit, serene setting.
MO
8.1 km
Exclusive chef’s table dining with innovative seasonal cuisine in an intimate Cotswolds setting at Dormy House.
Fig Restaurant, Campden
11.2 km
A stylish modern European restaurant in Chipping Campden, serving seasonal dishes and elegant afternoon tea within the Cotswold House Hotel & Spa.
Horse and Groom
11.2 km
Quintessential Cotswolds pub with hearty British fare, cozy rooms, and stunning countryside views in Bourton-on-the-Hill.
The Ebrington Arms
14.5 km
A timeless Cotswold village pub offering rustic charm, gourmet dining, and cozy country accommodation in idyllic Ebrington.
The Old Stocks Inn
14.6 km
Charming 17th-century boutique inn with refined British dining, cozy bar, and elegant rooms in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold’s historic market square.
The Coconut Tree Cheltenham
14.7 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and island cocktails in a cozy, lively Cheltenham venue with authentic flavours and warm hospitality.
The Old Butchers
14.8 km
A family-run gem in Stow-on-the-Wold offering exquisite European cuisine in a warm, historic setting with exceptional seafood and steaks.
Cosy Club
14.9 km
Eclectic British dining and lively social vibes await you daily in Cheltenham’s vibrant Brewery Quarter.
Petit Coco Bistro
15.0 km
Charming French bistro in Cheltenham offering authentic classics, cozy farmhouse decor, and a warm, intimate dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Just Incase Gifts
5.4 km
Discover unique, quality gifts and local crafts at this warm, family-run shop in the heart of Winchcombe’s charming Cotswold village.
Wild at Heart
6.1 km
Discover unique contemporary jewellery and gifts from local artisans at Wild at Heart, Broadway’s family-run boutique with a personal touch.
Betty & Violet
6.1 km
Vintage treasures and handmade goods celebrating independent makers in the heart of the Cotswolds.
The Man Cave Broadway
6.2 km
Eclectic collectibles and gifts in a historic Cotswolds village setting.
Cotswolds Distillery Shop
6.2 km
Discover the heart of Cotswolds spirits craftsmanship at the Broadway shop, home to award-winning whiskies and gins.
Whatever The Weather
6.2 km
Discover unique gifts and charming curiosities in a historic thatched cottage at the heart of Broadway’s picturesque High Street.
Cotswold Trading - Broadway
6.3 km
A stylish homewares and gift shop in the heart of Broadway, offering curated kitchenware, décor, and presents with a distinctly British flair.
Mooch The Cotswolds - Handmade Homeware & Clothing
11.1 km
Discover handcrafted luxury sleepwear and homeware inspired by Cotswold heritage, crafted with passion and sustainable artistry.
The Attic
11.1 km
Sustainable luxury fashion in the heart of the Cotswolds—designer pieces with character and conscience.
Cotswold Luxe
11.1 km
Luxury home furnishings and artisanal décor curated for timeless interior inspiration.
Cotswold Food Hampers
11.3 km
Discover premium handcrafted gourmet hampers celebrating the rich flavors and traditions of the Cotswolds in historic Chipping Campden.
The Malt House Emporium
13.8 km
Discover unique antiques, vintage treasures, and a cozy café experience at The Malt House Emporium near Tewkesbury.
Cotswold Grey
14.3 km
Discover rustic elegance and expert interior design at Cotswold Grey, Moreton-in-Marsh’s premier home furniture and décor destination.
The Cotswold Snug
14.4 km
Discover authentic Cotswold crafts and gifts in a cozy, welcoming shop nestled in the heart of Moreton-in-Marsh’s historic High Street.
The Cotswold Company (Flagship Store)
14.5 km
Step into a beautifully styled Cotswold home at The Cotswold Company’s flagship store in Stow-on-the-Wold, where timeless furniture and homewares come to life.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Snowshill Arms
3.8 km
Authentic Cotswold pub offering hearty fare, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the picturesque village of Snowshill.
The Lion Inn
5.4 km
Historic 15th-century coaching inn in Winchcombe offering cozy rooms, hearty British fare, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Hollow Bottom
8.0 km
A historic Cotswold pub blending hearty local fare, warm hospitality, and scenic countryside charm in the heart of Guiting Power.
The Bakers Arms
11.0 km
A timeless Cotswold pub offering hearty fare and warm hospitality in the heart of Broad Campden’s historic village.
Eight Bells Inn
11.5 km
Historic 14th-century inn with cozy rooms, classic pub fare, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Chipping Campden.
The Coach & Horses
12.0 km
A cosy, traditional Cotswold pub in Longborough serving hearty fare, local ales, and welcoming guests with charming B&B rooms.
The Royal Oak, Prestbury
12.5 km
Historic 16th-century pub in Prestbury offering traditional Cotswold charm, seasonal British fare, award-winning ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Watering Hole - Event Bars
13.1 km
Discover The Watering Hole, where exceptional cocktails and event planning unite in the stunning Cotswolds, perfect for weddings and gatherings.
The Cotswold Inn, Cheltenham.
14.7 km
A lively Cheltenham pub blending traditional charm with vibrant live music and a welcoming local atmosphere.
Sheep on Sheep Street
14.7 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort at The Sheep on Sheep Street, a vibrant inn and pub in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold.
Copa of Cheltenham
15.0 km
Lively pub and restaurant on Regent Street offering great drinks, tasty pub food, and a welcoming atmosphere with live sports and a beer garden.
The Retreat
15.8 km
A charming Cheltenham wine bar blending historic ambiance with locally sourced cuisine and a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
Kingsbridge
15.9 km
A classic riverside pub in Bourton-on-the-Water offering hearty British fare, cask ales, and warm hospitality in a scenic Cotswold village setting.
The Gloucester Old Spot
17.4 km
A quintessential English pub in Cheltenham offering hearty modern British fare, rare breed pork specialties, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
The House in The Tree
18.0 km
A charming and historic English pub in Cheltenham, serving hearty homemade meals in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with rustic character.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
2 PIGS
14.9 km
A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
Coco
15.1 km
Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.
The 21 Club
15.1 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
Popworld - Cheltenham
15.2 km
Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.
MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
15.2 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Home and Botanic Nightclub
15.3 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Cheltenham’s Home and Botanic, a multi-room club offering cocktails, live piano, DJs, and unforgettable nights.
Thirteen Degrees
15.3 km
Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.
Under the Prom
15.4 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.
The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
25.8 km
Explore the vibrant community of The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club, where bridge enthusiasts gather for games, camaraderie, and local culture in a picturesque setting.
Fat Cat Comedy Club
26.4 km
Discover the joy of laughter at Fat Cat Comedy Club in Stratford-upon-Avon, where each show promises an unforgettable night of entertainment.
Stratford Play House
26.4 km
Discover the vibrant world of performing arts at Stratford Play House, where drama, comedy, and culinary delights come together in Stratford-upon-Avon.
ATIK Gloucester
26.6 km
Gloucester’s largest nightclub, ATIK pulses with vibrant music, student nights, and an energetic party atmosphere until the early hours.
Bar Fever Gloucester
26.6 km
Experience Gloucester’s vibrant nightlife at Bar Fever, a trendy nightclub with dynamic music, stylish interiors, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Caz Bar Nightclub
26.6 km
Experience Stratford-upon-Avon's glamorous late-night vibe at Caz Bar, a vintage cellar nightclub with live DJs, dancers, and premium drinks until dawn.
Jax Nightclub Gloucester
26.8 km
Energetic nightclub in Gloucester offering diverse music, two dance floors, and a welcoming atmosphere for late-night fun.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- 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
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
