National Trust - Snowshill Manor and Garden

A Collector's Vision Brought to Life

Snowshill Manor, perched on the edge of the quaint village of Snowshill near Broadway, is a captivating 16th-century honey-stone manor house with origins dating back to the Domesday Book of 1086. Its present form largely reflects architectural developments from the 1550s, later carefully restored and adapted by Charles Paget Wade in the early 20th century. Wade, an architect, artist, and poet, transformed the manor into a theatrical stage for his vast and eclectic collection of over 16,000 handcrafted objects. His passion for craftsmanship, colour, and design is evident throughout the house, where each room tells a story through its carefully curated displays.

The Unconventional Interior and Collections

Unlike typical country houses, Snowshill Manor is a treasure trove of curiosities ranging from mechanical doorbells and suits of armour to musical instruments and model ships. Wade’s collections are arranged not as a museum but as a living home, where every corner, wall, and ceiling is utilized to showcase his acquisitions. The rooms, intriguingly named such as ‘Dragon’, ‘Mermaid’, and ‘Hundred Wheels’, invite visitors to linger and discover new details on each visit. Wade’s philosophy that each handcrafted item carries a unique soul and individuality resonates throughout the manor’s atmosphere.

The Arts and Crafts Garden: A Natural Extension

Designed in collaboration with Arts and Crafts architect Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott around 1920, the garden at Snowshill is an extension of the manor’s theatrical spirit. It unfolds as a series of outdoor rooms connected by walkways, topiary hedges, and terraces, offering far-reaching views of the Cotswold countryside. Highlights include a listed dovecote, a kitchen garden brimming with organic produce, and the enchanting Wolf’s Cove—a detailed model seaside village crafted by Wade himself. The garden’s thoughtful design and hidden vistas make it a joy to explore, blending natural beauty with artistic creativity.

Visitor Experience and Accessibility

Visitors typically spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the manor and gardens, with timed entry tickets ensuring a relaxed experience. The manor is accessed via a 500m hilly walk from the car park through apple orchards, with a buggy service available subject to volunteer availability. Volunteer guides enrich the visit by sharing insights into Wade’s life and the collections. Facilities include a café and a second-hand bookshop, providing refreshments and souvenirs. Accessibility is considered with tarmac paths and alternative access arrangements available upon request.

Preserving a Unique Heritage

Snowshill Manor remains much as Charles Wade intended, preserving his vision of a home filled with artistic and handcrafted wonders. The National Trust manages the property to protect its unique collection and gardens for future generations. The manor’s blend of history, eccentricity, and craftsmanship offers a distinctive cultural heritage experience within the scenic Cotswolds, celebrated for its charm and creativity.

Seasonal Opening and Practical Information

The manor and gardens are open daily from March to October, with reduced weekend hours in November and closure during winter months. Entry fees apply, with discounts for National Trust members. Timed tickets for the manor are allocated on arrival, with limited availability to preserve the quality of the visit. Dogs are not permitted on the property. Visitors are encouraged to check the National Trust website for current opening times and any conservation-related closures.