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Rodmarton Manor: A Masterpiece of Arts and Crafts Heritage

Explore Rodmarton Manor, a stunning Arts and Crafts masterpiece with exquisite gardens and handcrafted heritage in the heart of the Cotswolds.

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Rodmarton Manor, near Cirencester in Gloucestershire, is a Grade I listed Arts and Crafts country house built between 1909 and 1929. Surrounded by an 8-acre garden designed as a series of outdoor rooms, it showcases exquisite locally crafted furniture, textiles, and ironwork. The manor’s crescent-shaped layout encloses a central lawned courtyard, reflecting a village green. Open to visitors on select days, it offers a unique glimpse into early 20th-century craftsmanship and serene garden vistas.

A brief summary to Rodmarton Manor

  • Rodmarton Manor, Oathill Ln, Cirencester, Rodmarton, GL7 6PF, GB
  • +447776405887
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Wednesday 2 pm-5 pm
  • Saturday 2 pm-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on Wednesdays or Saturdays from May to September for guided tours of the house and gardens.
  • Don’t miss the snowdrop displays in February during special seasonal openings.
  • Enjoy homemade cakes and tea in the on-site tearoom to complement your visit.
  • Wear sturdy footwear as garden paths can be uneven and challenging for wheelchairs.
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Getting There

  • Train and Taxi

    From Kemble railway station, approximately 3 miles away, take a taxi to Rodmarton Manor. The taxi journey takes about 10-15 minutes. Train services run regularly from London Paddington to Kemble, with fares ranging from £20 to £50 depending on booking and class.

  • Car

    Driving from Cirencester, the manor is about a 15-minute drive via local roads. Free parking is available on-site. Note that rural roads may be narrow and signage limited, so plan accordingly.

  • Bus and Walking

    Local bus services run from Cirencester to nearby villages; from the closest stop, a 30-40 minute walk on uneven rural paths leads to the manor. This option is suitable for those comfortable with longer walks and countryside terrain.

Rodmarton Manor location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

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Architectural Elegance Rooted in Tradition

Rodmarton Manor stands as a supreme example of the Arts and Crafts movement, designed by Ernest Barnsley and completed by his brother Sidney Barnsley and son-in-law Norman Jewson. Constructed entirely with locally sourced stone and timber, the manor’s three wings form a graceful crescent around a central circular lawn, evoking the feel of a traditional village green. The building’s stone slate roof and grouped chimneystacks complement its handcrafted stone walls, emphasizing the movement’s dedication to natural materials and artisanal methods. Inside, the manor houses 74 rooms including 19 bedrooms, all named after local fields. The interiors brim with bespoke furniture, tapestries, ceramics, and ironwork crafted by renowned Cotswold artisans such as the Barnsleys, Gimson, Waals, and the Powells. Despite its grandeur, the Biddulph family lived modestly within the manor, dedicating much of the space to community teaching and craft events, reflecting the house’s social and cultural ethos.

The Gardens: A Living Canvas of Outdoor Rooms

Surrounding the manor is an 8-acre garden, designed as a series of outdoor rooms that blend formal and informal planting. Visitors can explore double herbaceous borders, wildflower meadows, topiary gardens, and a walled garden that offers tranquil retreats. The garden paths lead to charming features such as summer houses and loggias, with vistas that change beautifully through the seasons. The garden is particularly noted for its snowdrop displays in February and its colorful summer blooms, making it a year-round attraction.

A Hub for Craftsmanship and Community

Rodmarton Manor is not only a private home but also a cultural beacon for the revival of traditional crafts. Over two decades of construction saw local craftsmen handcrafting every detail, from furniture to metalwork, ensuring the preservation of endangered skills. Today, the manor continues this legacy by hosting craft events and guided tours that highlight its artistic heritage. The community spirit is palpable, with many volunteers supporting the site and sharing its stories.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Visitors to Rodmarton Manor enjoy a peaceful, intimate experience with knowledgeable guides offering insights into the manor’s history and artistry. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with the family’s personal touches evident throughout. The tea room serves homemade cakes and refreshments, enhancing the leisurely visit. While the garden paths are uneven and may challenge wheelchair users, efforts have been made to improve accessibility without compromising the garden’s character.

Seasonal Access and Events

The manor and gardens open to the public from May to September on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Bank Holiday Mondays, with special snowdrop openings in February. Private group tours are available outside these times by arrangement, providing exclusive access to this historic site. The changing seasons bring varied colors and moods to the gardens, inviting repeat visits to experience its evolving beauty.

Legacy of the Biddulph Family

Rodmarton Manor remains in the hands of the Biddulph family, now in its fourth and fifth generations. Their stewardship has preserved the manor’s unique character and the Arts and Crafts ideals upon which it was founded. This continuity enriches the visitor experience, offering a rare glimpse into a living heritage site where history, art, and nature harmoniously converge.

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