Stanway House and Fountain: Jacobean Elegance in the Cotswolds

Architectural Grandeur Rooted in History

Stanway House stands as an outstanding example of Jacobean architecture, dating back to the early 17th century. Built from the rich honey-colored Guiting Yellow stone, the manor features a striking Elizabethan facade with a distinctive oriel window and a traditional Cotswold stone roof. The estate was owned by Tewkesbury Abbey for over 800 years before passing to the Tracy family and their descendants, the Earls of Wemyss, who still reside there. Inside, the house boasts historic features such as a great hall with large bay windows, a raised dais, and unique Chinese Chippendale day beds from the 18th century, reflecting the layered history and lived-in charm of the home.

The Enchanting Water Gardens and the Iconic Fountain

The gardens at Stanway are a highlight, featuring an 18th-century water garden likely designed by Charles Bridgeman, a pioneer of British landscape gardening. The garden terraces rise dramatically, culminating in a formal canal that hosts the estate’s most famous attraction: a single-jet fountain that soars to 300 feet 10¼ inches, making it the tallest gravity fountain in the world and the highest in Britain. The fountain plays twice daily during summer months, creating a spectacular display amid the carefully restored ponds, terraces, and specimen trees that surround the house.

Historic Outbuildings and Village Harmony

Adjacent to the house lies the 14th-century tithe barn, originally built for Tewkesbury Abbey and restored in the 20th century. This medieval structure, with its undulating stone slate roof and massive timber rafters, adds to the estate’s historical depth. Nearby, the jewel-like Jacobean gatehouse and the village church contribute to the harmonious English countryside setting. The estate’s parkland, woodlands, and surrounding farms create a peaceful enclave that reflects centuries of rural heritage and landscape stewardship.

A Living Estate with Cultural and Natural Richness

Stanway remains a lived-in home, blending historical preservation with natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil ambiance of the parkland and gardens, picnic areas, and the seasonal cream teas served in the Team Room. The estate is pet friendly and accessible to visitors with disabilities, though some areas may have limited access. The presence of ancient trees and the ongoing restoration of garden features underscore Stanway’s commitment to conservation and heritage.

Visitor Experience and Seasonal Highlights

Open to the public on select days in June, July, and August, Stanway House offers guided and self-guided tours that reveal its architectural and horticultural treasures. The fountain performances at 2:45 pm and 4:00 pm are a major draw, providing a sensory spectacle of water and light. The estate also hosts private events, including weddings in the atmospheric tithe barn, set against a backdrop of lawns, ponds, and historic stone cottages. Ample parking and facilities enhance the visitor experience, making Stanway a memorable destination in the Cotswolds.

Legacy and Landscape in the Heart of the Cotswolds

Stanway is more than a historic house; it is a cultural landmark that embodies the spirit of the Cotswolds. Its combination of Jacobean architecture, historic furnishings, magnificent water features, and peaceful rural surroundings offers a rare and magical harmony. The estate’s long history, dating back to medieval times, and its continued stewardship by the Earls of Wemyss ensure that Stanway remains a treasured part of England’s heritage and landscape.