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Snowshill Manor and Garden: A Curated Wonderland of Craft and Nature

Discover the enchanting 16th-century manor and whimsical Arts and Crafts garden of Charles Wade’s eclectic collection in the heart of the Cotswolds.

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Snowshill Manor and Garden, nestled in the Cotswolds near Broadway, is a captivating National Trust property showcasing the eccentric collector Charles Paget Wade’s vast and eclectic assemblage within a 16th-century manor house. The Arts and Crafts garden, designed alongside architect Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott, complements the manor with outdoor rooms, terraces, and whimsical features like a model seaside village. Open seasonally with timed entry to the manor, it offers a unique blend of history, artistry, and tranquil natural beauty.

A brief summary to National Trust - Snowshill Manor and Garden

  • Broadway, Snowshill, WR12 7JU, GB
  • +441386852410
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 11 am-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 11 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 11 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Book your timed manor entry slot early, especially during peak seasons, to guarantee access.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the uphill 500m walk from the car park to the manor; a buggy service may be available.
  • Explore the Arts and Crafts garden thoroughly, including the model village Wolf’s Cove and outdoor dining areas.
  • Visit the café and second-hand bookshop for refreshments and unique finds.
  • Consider staying in one of the National Trust’s historic cottages nearby for a full Cotswolds experience.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Broadway town center takes about 10 minutes along rural roads; parking is available at the visitor reception. Motorhomes over 5 meters require advance booking by phone. Parking is free for National Trust members; non-members pay a moderate fee.

  • Public Transport

    Take a train to Moreton-in-Marsh station, then use The Robin minibus service pre-booked online to Snowshill Manor, costing around £3 per person. Service frequency is limited, so booking in advance is essential.

  • Taxi

    Local taxis can be hired from Broadway or Moreton-in-Marsh; booking ahead is recommended due to limited availability. The journey takes approximately 10–15 minutes and costs vary.

  • Walking

    For active visitors, a scenic 2.5-mile walk from Broadway village to Snowshill Manor offers a countryside experience. The route includes some hilly terrain and is suitable for those comfortable with moderate walking.

National Trust - Snowshill Manor and Garden location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
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A Storied Home of Eclectic Passion

Snowshill Manor stands as a honey-stone jewel on the edge of the village of Snowshill, its origins dating back to the Domesday Book of 1086. The manor’s oldest visible structures are from the 1550s, but it is the 20th-century transformation by Charles Paget Wade that defines its character today. Wade, an architect, artist, and craftsman, purchased the manor in 1919 and devoted his life to filling it with over 16,000 hand-crafted objects. His collection is displayed not as a museum but as a theatrical stage, with rooms named for themes like “Dragon” and “Mermaid,” each curated with a focus on design, color, and craftsmanship. Wade’s vision was to create a home that was both a personal sanctuary and a showcase of his passions.

The Arts and Crafts Garden as an Outdoor Extension

Designed in the 1920s by Wade and his friend Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott, a prominent Arts and Crafts architect, the garden is an imaginative complement to the manor. It unfolds as a series of outdoor rooms and terraces connected by walkways and topiary hedges, transforming the former farmyard into a theatrical landscape. Highlights include a pond that hosts Wolf’s Cove, a detailed model seaside village, and converted farm buildings now serving as outdoor dining areas. The garden invites visitors to explore varied atmospheres and enjoy peaceful natural beauty intertwined with artistic design.

Visitor Experience and Seasonal Access

Snowshill Manor and Garden operate seasonally, typically open daily from 11am to 5:30pm during spring and summer months, with reduced hours and weekend-only access in late autumn. The manor visit requires a timed ticket, allowing two-hour slots to ensure a relaxed experience and preservation of the collection. The manor is reached by a 500m uphill walk from the car park, with a buggy service available subject to volunteer availability. Dogs are generally not permitted inside the manor or formal gardens but are welcome in designated outdoor areas. Facilities include a café offering refreshments, a shop with gifts and souvenirs, and a second-hand bookshop.

Architectural and Artistic Significance

The manor itself is a historic structure with Tudor origins, meticulously restored and adapted by Wade to enhance light, texture, and color. Its interiors are a blend of historic architecture and Wade’s artistic interventions, creating a unique atmosphere that reflects his playful and theatrical approach. The house’s design and collection offer insight into early 20th-century Arts and Crafts ideals, emphasizing craftsmanship and the beauty of handmade objects.

Local Setting and Accommodation Options

Located near the charming village of Broadway in Gloucestershire, Snowshill Manor offers a tranquil rural setting typical of the Cotswolds. Visitors can extend their stay by renting National Trust historic cottages opposite the manor, featuring period details such as inglenook fireplaces and wood burners. The surrounding landscape and nearby villages provide opportunities for walking, exploring traditional English countryside, and enjoying local hospitality.

Preservation and Legacy

Charles Paget Wade’s bequest of Snowshill Manor and its collections to the National Trust ensures the preservation of this unique cultural and artistic heritage. The property is maintained to protect Wade’s vision and the integrity of the collections, with ongoing conservation efforts and educational programs. Snowshill remains a testament to one man’s dedication to craftsmanship, creativity, and the celebration of the unusual and extraordinary.

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