National Trust - Chastleton House
Step into a 400-year Jacobean time capsule at Chastleton House, where history, architecture, and gardens tell stories of English heritage and family legacy.
Chastleton House is a remarkably well-preserved Jacobean country house near Moreton-in-Marsh, Oxfordshire. Built between 1607 and 1612 by wool merchant Walter Jones, it stands as a 400-year time capsule with original interiors, rare textiles, and historic gardens. Owned by the National Trust since 1991, the house offers visitors a unique glimpse into English history, including the codification of croquet rules and links to the Gunpowder Plot era.
A brief summary to National Trust - Chastleton House
- Moreton-in-Marsh, Chastleton, GL56 0SU, GB
- +441608674981
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Sunday 11 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Visit during spring or summer to enjoy the gardens in full bloom and the croquet lawns at their best.
- Explore the Long Gallery and the Great Chamber for the finest examples of Jacobean interior decoration.
- Look out for the ancient Mulberry Tree in the garden, a living link to the early 17th century.
- Allow at least 2 hours to fully appreciate the house, gardens, and historical exhibits.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Taxi
Take a train to Moreton-in-Marsh station, approximately 4 miles from Chastleton House. From there, taxis are available and the journey takes about 10-15 minutes. Train fares vary but typically range from £15 to £30 one way depending on departure location.
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Car
Driving to Chastleton House is straightforward via the A429 road. Parking is available on-site for visitors. Travel times vary by starting point but expect around 1.5 to 2 hours from Oxford. There is a moderate parking fee of approximately £5-£7.
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Bus and Walking
Local bus services connect Moreton-in-Marsh to nearby villages. From the bus stop in Moreton-in-Marsh, a taxi or a 50-minute walk along rural lanes leads to Chastleton House. Walking involves uneven terrain and is not recommended for those with mobility issues.
National Trust - Chastleton House 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 National Trust - Chastleton House
A Testament to Jacobean Prosperity and Architecture
Chastleton House was constructed between 1607 and 1612 by Walter Jones, a prosperous wool merchant and lawyer who sought to showcase his newly acquired wealth and status. The house is an outstanding example of Jacobean architecture, characterized by its tall, compact form, symmetrical design, and intricate stonework. The south front features a striking arrangement of staircase towers and bays, with a sophisticated interplay of window levels and glass-to-wall ratios that exemplify early 17th-century style. Built from honey-hued Cotswold stone, the house surrounds a small courtyard known as the Dairy Court, which adds to its intimate yet grand atmosphere.Preserved Interiors Reflecting Four Centuries of Family Life
Inside, Chastleton House offers a rare and largely unaltered glimpse into 400 years of English country living. The Great Chamber boasts lavish Jacobean wood panelling, a high-relief moulded ceiling, and an ornate frieze, all preserved with minimal modern intervention. The house’s interiors range from grand, richly decorated rooms to more modest, functional spaces such as the White Parlour and the servant’s staircase. The Long Gallery, with its impressive barrel-vaulted ceiling and unique carved spandrels, was designed to impress guests and provide indoor recreation on rainy days. The kitchen and cellars remain largely unchanged since their original construction, featuring historic elements like a serving hatch and an extraordinary 20-meter ladder once used for window cleaning.Historical Significance and Family Legacy
The estate was originally owned by Robert Catesby, leader of the Gunpowder Plot, before Walter Jones purchased it in 1602 and replaced the old manor with the current house. The Jones family, staunch Royalists during the English Civil War, endured financial hardship that ironically preserved the house’s original character by preventing extensive renovations. Notably, Arthur Jones escaped Roundhead soldiers during the war thanks to his wife Sarah’s quick thinking. The house remained in the Jones family for nearly 400 years, passing through generations including Mary Whitmore Jones, the first female heir, and later the Whitmore-Jones family, who resisted modernisation and maintained the house’s authenticity until its transfer to the National Trust in 1991.The Garden and Outdoor Spaces as a Peaceful Retreat
Chastleton’s gardens complement the house’s historic charm with a series of intimate, walled garden spaces that offer tranquility and seasonal beauty. Highlights include the Best Garden, the Kitchen Garden, and the Wilderness Walk, where visitors can admire an ancient Mulberry Tree believed to date back to the reign of James I. The croquet lawns hold special significance as the place where the modern rules of croquet were first codified in the 19th century by Walter Whitmore-Jones. These outdoor areas provide a serene setting for reflection and leisurely exploration amid the Cotswold countryside.A Unique Conservation Approach by the National Trust
Since acquiring Chastleton House, the National Trust has adopted a policy of controlled decay rather than full restoration, preserving the house as a living time capsule. This approach allows visitors to experience the house’s atmospheric and slightly worn interiors, with peeling walls and an eclectic mix of furnishings spanning from the Jacobean era to the 1970s. The Trust balances conservation with interpretation to maintain the house’s spirit of place, showcasing its rich history and the stories of its inhabitants without erasing the marks of time.Cultural Legacy and Visitor Experience
Chastleton House is not only a historic monument but also a cultural landmark. It has served as a filming location and inspired literary and artistic works. Visitors can explore the extensive collection of tapestries, rare textiles, Jacobite glassware, and family portraits that enrich the house’s narrative. The house’s intimate scale and well-preserved state offer a deeply immersive experience, inviting guests to imagine life across centuries within its walls and gardens. The combination of architectural beauty, historical intrigue, and peaceful surroundings makes Chastleton a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and cultural travelers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bliss Tweed Mill
6.1 km
A striking Victorian tweed mill in Chipping Norton, blending industrial heritage with elegant architecture and scenic Cotswold views.
Old Campden House
13.8 km
Explore the evocative ruins and Jacobean heritage of Old Campden House, a grand 17th-century mansion touched by history and time.
West Banqueting House
13.9 km
Experience the grandeur of Jacobean England in West Banqueting House, a beautifully preserved historic retreat in the heart of Chipping Campden.
National Trust - Snowshill Manor and Garden
16.1 km
Explore the historical charm and natural beauty of Snowshill Manor and Garden, a hidden gem in the Cotswolds inviting travelers to experience English heritage.
Undiscovered Cotswolds
19.2 km
Discover the natural beauty and rich history of the Undiscovered Cotswolds, a unique tourist destination perfect for your next adventure.
Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote
19.3 km
Explore the enchanting ruins of Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote, a historical gem in the Cotswolds offering picturesque views and rich heritage.
National Trust - Lodge Park and Sherborne Park Estate
19.7 km
Experience the beauty and history of Lodge Park and Sherborne Park Estate, a stunning historical landmark in the heart of Gloucestershire's countryside.
Hailes Abbey
19.7 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Hailes Abbey, a stunning Cotswolds gem that transports visitors back to medieval times.
Hailes Church
19.8 km
Explore the medieval Hailes Church and evocative ruins of Hailes Abbey, a royal-founded pilgrimage site famed for the Holy Blood relic.
Church of St Peter and St Paul, Northleach
19.9 km
The 'Cathedral of the Cotswolds'—a 15th-century masterpiece built by wool merchants at the height of medieval prosperity.
North Leigh Roman Villa
20.1 km
Explore North Leigh Roman Villa, a remarkable site showcasing the grandeur of ancient Roman life in the heart of England.
Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
20.8 km
Discover Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens, a beautiful sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Sudeley Castle Gardens
21.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Sudeley Castle Gardens, a must-visit gem in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Sudeley Castle
21.7 km
Explore Sudeley Castle, a historical landmark in the Cotswolds, rich in royal history, stunning gardens, and family-friendly activities.
Belas Knap Long Barrow
22.9 km
A 5,000-year-old Neolithic mystery carved in stone, where ancient rituals and timeless Cotswolds views converge.
Unmissable attractions to see
Daylesford Organic
3.4 km
Experience sustainable farming, organic dining, and wellness in the idyllic Cotswolds at Daylesford Organic Farm.
The Rollright Stones
5.1 km
Explore the enigmatic Rollright Stones, a trio of ancient megaliths steeped in legend and prehistoric ritual on the Oxfordshire-Warwickshire border.
The Porch House
6.5 km
Experience England’s oldest inn, The Porch House, where medieval history meets modern comfort in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Market Square
6.6 km
Historic Market Square at the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold, where centuries of trade, architecture, and English rural charm converge.
Cotswolds AONB
6.6 km
Explore the Cotswolds AONB: rolling hills, honey-hued villages, and timeless English countryside charm across nearly 800 square miles.
St Edward's Church
6.6 km
Discover the medieval charm and legendary Tolkien Door of St Edward's Church, a historic gem in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold.
Cotswold Falconry Centre
7.7 km
Discover the majesty of birds of prey through thrilling displays and close encounters at the Cotswold Falconry Centre in scenic Batsford.
Bourton House Garden
7.8 km
Explore the tranquil elegance of Bourton House Garden, a historic Cotswold gem with exquisite topiary, a White Garden, and stunning countryside views.
Lady’s Well
7.9 km
Discover the tranquil Lady’s Well in Lower Swell, a historic holy spring famed for its healing waters and timeless spiritual traditions.
Cotswold Barn
7.9 km
Charming family-run café and gift shop in a rustic barn with scenic countryside views and lively motor events in the North Cotswolds.
Sezincote House & Garden
7.9 km
Discover Sezincote, a breathtaking Mughal-style Indian palace and romantic garden nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Foxholes
8.3 km
Ancient woodland sanctuary famed for spring bluebells, diverse fungi, abundant wildlife, and tranquil riverside meadows in Oxfordshire.
Cotswolds Distillery Visitor Centre
8.9 km
Discover the art of whisky and gin crafting at the scenic Cotswolds Distillery, where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Warwickshire.
The Feathered Nest Country Inn
9.0 km
A charming country inn in Nether Westcote offering refined dining, cozy accommodations, and breathtaking Cotswold views.
Fairytale Farm
9.1 km
Discover a magical farm adventure with fairy tale play areas, friendly animals, and enchanting events for the whole family near Chipping Norton.
Essential places to dine
The Kingham Plough
5.1 km
A charming Cotswold village inn blending traditional character with modern British cuisine and stylish comfort in the heart of Kingham.
The Wild Rabbit
5.3 km
Charming Georgian inn in Kingham offering refined British cuisine, eco-conscious hospitality, and stylish countryside retreats in the heart of the Cotswolds.
The Chequers, Cotswolds
6.0 km
A stylish Cotswold gastropub in Churchill, serving elevated pub classics in a warm, lively atmosphere with a lovely garden and a strong local following.
The Old Butchers
6.5 km
A family-run gem in Stow-on-the-Wold offering exquisite European cuisine in a warm, historic setting with exceptional seafood and steaks.
The Old Stocks Inn
6.5 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.
Whistlers Restaurant
6.8 km
Whistlers Restaurant offers vibrant modern British dining with fresh ingredients, lively atmosphere, and a welcoming bar in Chipping Norton.
the scenic supper
7.7 km
Experience farm-to-table dining in a stunning Cotswold glasshouse with seasonal menus and panoramic countryside views.
Horse and Groom
8.2 km
Quintessential Cotswolds pub with hearty British fare, cozy rooms, and stunning countryside views in Bourton-on-the-Hill.
The Rose Tree Restaurant
11.7 km
Charming riverside British dining in a historic Cotswold cottage with cozy interiors and scenic garden views.
The Croft Restaurant
11.7 km
A charming riverside restaurant in Bourton-on-the-Water serving fresh, locally sourced English cuisine in a welcoming and scenic setting.
The Ebrington Arms
12.6 km
A timeless Cotswold village pub offering rustic charm, gourmet dining, and cozy country accommodation in idyllic Ebrington.
Fig Restaurant, Campden
14.0 km
A stylish modern European restaurant in Chipping Campden, serving seasonal dishes and elegant afternoon tea within the Cotswold House Hotel & Spa.
The Halfway at Kineton
15.3 km
A charming 17th-century Cotswold pub blending rustic ambiance with refined seasonal British cuisine and warm hospitality.
The Shed
15.7 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
15.7 km
Elegant garden-inspired dining at Dormy House, blending Cotswold produce with Mediterranean flair in a sunlit, serene setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Cotswold Snug
5.5 km
Discover authentic Cotswold crafts and gifts in a cozy, welcoming shop nestled in the heart of Moreton-in-Marsh’s historic High Street.
Cotswold Grey
5.6 km
Discover rustic elegance and expert interior design at Cotswold Grey, Moreton-in-Marsh’s premier home furniture and décor destination.
Ella's Emporium
6.5 km
A charming Cotswold gift shop with handmade fudge, unique homewares, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold.
The Curated Store
6.6 km
Discover unique vintage fashion, artisan homewares, and timeless treasures in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold’s charming market square.
The Cotswold Company (Flagship Store)
6.7 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.
Cotswold Hipster
9.7 km
Handcrafted artisan leather bags and stylish dog accessories blending vintage charm with modern functionality in Chipping Norton.
Cotswold Picture Shop
11.3 km
Discover authentic Cotswold art and unique gifts in a charming Bourton-on-the-Water boutique open daily until midnight.
Chestnuts Fashion Fix
11.6 km
Discover unique vintage-inspired fashion and accessories in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water’s charming High Street.
Cotswold China & Cookware
11.6 km
Discover exquisite British chinaware and cookware in a charming boutique nestled in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water.
The Cotswold Shop
11.6 km
Charming boutique offering handcrafted gifts and traditional sweets in one of Bourton-on-the-Water’s oldest buildings.
Quirky
11.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures in the heart of Bourton-on-the-Water’s charming High Street.
The Lodestone
11.7 km
Discover dazzling crystals and minerals with expert guidance in the heart of charming Bourton-on-the-Water.
Cotswold Perfumery
11.7 km
Experience bespoke English fragrances, immersive perfume courses, and luxury riverside stays in the historic heart of Bourton-on-the-Water.
Caboodle
11.8 km
Handcrafted treasures and local artisan finds in the heart of picturesque Bourton-on-the-Water.
Cotswold Food Hampers
14.0 km
Discover premium handcrafted gourmet hampers celebrating the rich flavors and traditions of the Cotswolds in historic Chipping Campden.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Fox at Oddington
3.5 km
Historic 16th-century Cotswold pub blending rustic charm with organic cuisine and cozy countryside stays in Lower Oddington.
Sheep on Sheep Street
6.5 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.
The Coach & Horses
7.0 km
A cosy, traditional Cotswold pub in Longborough serving hearty fare, local ales, and welcoming guests with charming B&B rooms.
Kingsbridge
11.7 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 Lamb Inn
12.1 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Oxfordshire’s Cotswolds, blending rustic charm, hearty British cuisine, and cozy guest rooms.
The Bakers Arms
12.6 km
A timeless Cotswold pub offering hearty fare and warm hospitality in the heart of Broad Campden’s historic village.
Eight Bells Inn
13.9 km
Historic 14th-century inn with cozy rooms, classic pub fare, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Chipping Campden.
The Howard Arms Ilmington
15.0 km
A charming 400-year-old Cotswold inn blending historic warmth, fine dining, and stylish comfort in the heart of Ilmington village.
Snowshill Arms
15.8 km
Authentic Cotswold pub offering hearty fare, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the picturesque village of Snowshill.
Hollow Bottom
16.2 km
A historic Cotswold pub blending hearty local fare, warm hospitality, and scenic countryside charm in the heart of Guiting Power.
The Cotswold Arms
16.8 km
Historic 15th-century pub in Burford blending local ales, homemade food, live music, and a cozy beer garden for all ages.
Broadway
16.9 km
A welcoming Bournemouth pub serving classic fare, live sports, and a vibrant community atmosphere with inclusive dining options.
The Watering Hole - Event Bars
17.5 km
Discover The Watering Hole, where exceptional cocktails and event planning unite in the stunning Cotswolds, perfect for weddings and gatherings.
The Lion Inn
22.3 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.
The Bull - El Toro | Stratford-Upon-Avon
25.8 km
A lively fusion of Spanish tapas and English pub charm in Stratford-upon-Avon, serving exceptional food and drink in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
25.7 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
26.2 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
26.3 km
Discover the vibrant world of performing arts at Stratford Play House, where drama, comedy, and culinary delights come together in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Caz Bar Nightclub
26.4 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.
2 PIGS
30.6 km
A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
Coco
30.6 km
Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.
The 21 Club
30.6 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
30.7 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Popworld - Cheltenham
30.7 km
Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.
Home and Botanic Nightclub
30.9 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
30.9 km
Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.
Under the Prom
30.9 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.
The Bridge Nightclub
34.5 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
34.5 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
Kiss Bar
34.5 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
