Stanway House: Jacobean Elegance and the World's Tallest Gravity Fountain
Explore Stanway House, a Jacobean manor with England’s tallest gravity fountain and enchanting historic gardens in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Stanway House, nestled in the Cotswolds near Cheltenham, is a stunning Jacobean manor renowned for its honey-colored Guiting stone architecture and lived-in charm. Surrounded by historic gardens, a medieval tithe barn, and the world’s tallest gravity-fed fountain at 300 feet, it offers a unique blend of English heritage, natural beauty, and tranquil parkland. The estate remains a family home, inviting visitors to explore its water garden, restored watermill, and peaceful grounds.
A brief summary to Stanway House
- Stanway House, Cheltenham, Stanway, GL54 5PQ, GB
- +441386584469
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during June to August on Tuesdays or Thursdays between 2pm and 5pm for fountain operation and garden access.
- Allow extra time to explore the restored medieval tithe barn and working watermill on site.
- Bring a camera for picturesque views of the fountain, water gardens, and classic Cotswold stone architecture.
- Dogs on short leads are welcome in the gardens, making it a great outing for pet owners.
- Enjoy refreshments at the tea room offering homemade cakes, cream teas, and locally made ice cream.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Cheltenham town center takes approximately 25-35 minutes via the A40 and local roads. There is ample free parking on site. Note that rural roads may be narrow and winding.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Cheltenham to nearby villages; from Toddington or Winchcombe, taxis or a 30-40 minute walk on country lanes lead to Stanway House. Bus frequency is limited, so check schedules in advance.
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Walking
For walkers, the estate is accessible via scenic rural footpaths from Stanway village and surrounding areas, suitable for moderate fitness levels and offering peaceful countryside views. Paths may be uneven and muddy after rain.
Stanway 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 Stanway House
Architectural Heritage and Historical Roots
Stanway House is a magnificent Jacobean manor dating from the late 16th and early 17th centuries, constructed primarily from the warm, honey-colored Guiting stone typical of the Cotswolds. The house's architecture features elegant Elizabethan and Stuart elements, including a striking oriel window and a jewel-like gatehouse adorned with scallop shells from the Tracy family crest. The estate has a rich lineage, having been owned by Tewkesbury Abbey for 800 years and subsequently by the Tracy family and their descendants, the Earls of Wemyss, who still reside there. The house is notable for its lived-in atmosphere, filled with historic furniture, unique ‘Chinese Chippendale’ day beds, and authentic period details that convey a genuine family home rather than a formal museum.The Enchanting Water Gardens and Fountain
The grounds of Stanway House feature one of England’s finest water gardens, originally designed in the 18th century, likely by the renowned landscape gardener Charles Bridgeman. The garden is laid out in dramatic terraced lawns with a formal canal, a pyramid water feature, and a series of ponds and cascades. The highlight is the single-jet fountain, which at 300 feet 10¼ inches is the tallest gravity-fed fountain in the world and the highest fountain in Britain. This spectacular water feature operates twice daily during the summer months, creating a breathtaking spectacle against the backdrop of the canal and the manor house.Historic Outbuildings and Village Charm
Adjacent to the house stands the 14th-century tithe barn, originally built to collect agricultural tithes for Tewkesbury Abbey. Restored in the 20th century, this stone barn with its undulating stone slate roof is a beautiful example of medieval architecture and adds to the estate’s historic ambiance. Nearby, the fully restored working watermill offers insight into traditional flour milling and is a charming addition to the estate. The village of Stanway itself remains largely unchanged, preserving its historic character with stone cottages, a church, and parkland that together create a serene and quintessentially English rural setting.Visitor Experience and Seasonal Highlights
Stanway House and its gardens are open to the public during June, July, and August on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 pm to 5 pm. Visitors can enjoy self-guided or private tours of the house and grounds, with access to the fountain, gardens, tithe barn, and watermill. The estate is pet-friendly, allowing dogs on leads, and features a tea room serving homemade cakes, cream teas, and locally produced ice cream. The atmosphere is informal and welcoming, emphasizing the home’s lived-in character and the peacefulness of the surrounding parkland. The estate also hosts weddings in the picturesque tithe barn and surrounding lawns.Natural Beauty and Landscape Significance
Set within 23 acres of parkland, the estate offers splendid views of the Cotswold countryside, including avenues of specimen trees and the valley of the River Severn. The gardens’ restoration has revived the historic water features, enhancing the natural beauty and providing tranquil spots for reflection and photography. The combination of historic architecture, water features, and natural landscape makes Stanway a harmonious and almost magical enclave that exemplifies English country heritage.Continuity and Preservation of a Historic Estate
Remarkably, the estate has changed hands only twice since AD 715, reflecting a deep continuity of ownership and stewardship. The current owners, the Earls of Wemyss, have maintained the estate's character while allowing public access to its treasures. This balance of private residence and public heritage site offers visitors a rare glimpse into centuries of English history, architecture, and landscape gardening, all preserved within an authentic, lived-in setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cotswold Journeys
10.4 km
Explore the enchanting Cotswolds on expertly crafted walking tours with seamless logistics and charming local stays.
World Walks (inc. Cotswold Journeys, British & Irish Walks)
10.4 km
Explore the captivating beauty of the Cotswolds with World Walks, your gateway to unforgettable guided walking tours across Britain and Ireland.
West Banqueting House
11.6 km
Experience the grandeur of Jacobean England in West Banqueting House, a beautifully preserved historic retreat in the heart of Chipping Campden.
Old Campden House
11.6 km
Explore the evocative ruins and Jacobean heritage of Old Campden House, a grand 17th-century mansion touched by history and time.
The Hare and the Minotaur
15.1 km
Explore the Hare and the Minotaur sculpture in Cheltenham – a perfect blend of art, mythology, and nature that captivates every visitor.
Royal Cres
15.2 km
Explore Cheltenham's stunning Regency architecture, vibrant festivals, and lush parks in the heart of the Cotswolds, perfect for every type of traveler.
Winston Churchill Memorial Gardens
15.2 km
Explore the beautiful Winston Churchill Memorial Gardens in Cheltenham, a peaceful retreat filled with lush landscapes and rich historical significance.
The Neptune Fountain
15.3 km
Experience the beauty and history of The Neptune Fountain, a stunning landmark in Cheltenham that enchants visitors with its artistic elegance.
National Trust - Hidcote
15.4 km
Explore Hidcote Gardens, a masterpiece of garden design in the Cotswolds, featuring stunning landscapes and rich horticultural history.
Gustav Holst Statue & Planets Fountain
15.4 km
Experience the artistic charm of Cheltenham at the Gustav Holst Statue & Planets Fountain, a tribute to the composer and his celestial works.
Montpellier Gardens
15.7 km
Explore the beauty and tranquility of Montpellier Gardens, a charming park in Cheltenham adorned with stunning floral displays and serene pathways.
Greystones Farm Nature Reserve
16.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Greystones Farm Nature Reserve in the Cotswolds, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and families.
The Model Village
16.0 km
Experience the enchanting world of The Model Village, a miniature gem in Bourton-on-the-Water, capturing the essence of Cotswold charm.
The Dragonfly Maze
16.2 km
Explore the whimsical pathways of The Dragonfly Maze in Bourton-on-the-Water, a serene adventure for nature lovers and families alike.
Tewkesbury Abbey
17.0 km
Explore Tewkesbury Abbey, a stunning medieval masterpiece rich in history and breathtaking architecture, nestled in the heart of Tewkesbury.
Unmissable attractions to see
Shenberrow Hill
2.1 km
Discover Shenberrow Hill’s tranquil landscapes and charming village atmosphere on the scenic edge of the Cotswolds.
Hailes Church
2.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Hailes Church in Cheltenham, a true gem nestled in the picturesque Cotswolds.
Hailes Abbey
2.6 km
Explore the tranquil ruins of 13th-century Hailes Abbey, a captivating Cistercian site steeped in medieval history and set in peaceful Cotswold countryside.
Snowshill
3.8 km
Discover Snowshill, a charming Cotswold village where historic manor, vibrant gardens, and lavender fields create a serene and captivating escape.
National Trust - Snowshill Manor and Garden
3.8 km
Discover the enchanting 16th-century manor and whimsical Arts and Crafts garden of Charles Wade’s eclectic collection in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway
4.4 km
Step aboard vintage steam trains through the scenic Cotswolds on a 28-mile heritage railway journey filled with history, charm, and community spirit.
Cotswold Lavender
4.7 km
Immerse yourself in the fragrant, scenic lavender fields of Cotswold Lavender, a seasonal farm experience in the heart of Snowshill’s countryside.
Winchcombe Museum
5.4 km
Discover Winchcombe’s rich history and artisan pottery heritage at this intimate museum in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Sudeley Castle Gardens
5.6 km
A Tudor jewel with 1,000 years of history, ten award-winning gardens, and royal connections in the Cotswolds.
Sudeley Castle
5.6 km
Explore a Tudor castle with royal tombs, award-winning gardens, and family adventures nestled in the scenic Cotswolds.
Explore Gloucestershire
5.9 km
Your friendly gateway to Gloucester’s rich history, events, and travel services, located inside the Museum of Gloucester.
Broadway Museum & Art Gallery
6.3 km
Discover Broadway’s rich history and vibrant artistic heritage in a charming 17th-century coaching inn museum nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Broadway
6.4 km
Explore Broadway, the enchanting jewel of the Cotswolds, where history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty await every traveler.
Broadway Tower
6.5 km
Explore Broadway Tower, a historical landmark in the Cotswolds offering stunning views and rich heritage in a picturesque setting.
Cotswold Farm Park
7.9 km
Meet rare British farm breeds and experience authentic countryside learning in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Essential places to dine
Buckland Manor
4.1 km
Elegant historic manor hotel with fine dining and tranquil gardens in the heart of the Cotswolds’ charming Broadway village.
5 North St
5.4 km
An intimate French dining experience in Winchcombe, blending innovative cuisine with cozy charm and unpretentious service.
Russell’s of Broadway
6.2 km
Elegant boutique hotel and acclaimed restaurant blending historic charm with refined British cuisine in the heart of Broadway, Cotswolds.
The Halfway at Kineton
6.8 km
A charming 17th-century Cotswold pub blending rustic ambiance with refined seasonal British cuisine and warm hospitality.
The Shed
8.1 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
8.1 km
Elegant garden-inspired dining at Dormy House, blending Cotswold produce with Mediterranean flair in a sunlit, serene setting.
MO
8.1 km
Exclusive chef’s table dining with innovative seasonal cuisine in an intimate Cotswolds setting at Dormy House.
Fig Restaurant, Campden
11.2 km
A stylish modern European restaurant in Chipping Campden, serving seasonal dishes and elegant afternoon tea within the Cotswold House Hotel & Spa.
Horse and Groom
11.2 km
Quintessential Cotswolds pub with hearty British fare, cozy rooms, and stunning countryside views in Bourton-on-the-Hill.
The Ebrington Arms
14.5 km
A timeless Cotswold village pub offering rustic charm, gourmet dining, and cozy country accommodation in idyllic Ebrington.
The Old Stocks Inn
14.6 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.
The Coconut Tree Cheltenham
14.7 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and island cocktails in a cozy, lively Cheltenham venue with authentic flavours and warm hospitality.
The Old Butchers
14.8 km
A family-run gem in Stow-on-the-Wold offering exquisite European cuisine in a warm, historic setting with exceptional seafood and steaks.
Cosy Club
14.9 km
Eclectic British dining and lively social vibes await you daily in Cheltenham’s vibrant Brewery Quarter.
Petit Coco Bistro
15.0 km
Charming French bistro in Cheltenham offering authentic classics, cozy farmhouse decor, and a warm, intimate dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Just Incase Gifts
5.4 km
Discover unique, quality gifts and local crafts at this warm, family-run shop in the heart of Winchcombe’s charming Cotswold village.
Wild at Heart
6.1 km
Discover unique contemporary jewellery and gifts from local artisans at Wild at Heart, Broadway’s family-run boutique with a personal touch.
Betty & Violet
6.1 km
Vintage treasures and handmade goods celebrating independent makers in the heart of the Cotswolds.
The Man Cave Broadway
6.2 km
Eclectic collectibles and gifts in a historic Cotswolds village setting.
Cotswolds Distillery Shop
6.2 km
Discover the heart of Cotswolds spirits craftsmanship at the Broadway shop, home to award-winning whiskies and gins.
Whatever The Weather
6.2 km
Discover unique gifts and charming curiosities in a historic thatched cottage at the heart of Broadway’s picturesque High Street.
Cotswold Trading - Broadway
6.3 km
A stylish homewares and gift shop in the heart of Broadway, offering curated kitchenware, décor, and presents with a distinctly British flair.
Mooch The Cotswolds - Handmade Homeware & Clothing
11.1 km
Discover handcrafted luxury sleepwear and homeware inspired by Cotswold heritage, crafted with passion and sustainable artistry.
The Attic
11.1 km
Sustainable luxury fashion in the heart of the Cotswolds—designer pieces with character and conscience.
Cotswold Luxe
11.1 km
Luxury home furnishings and artisanal décor curated for timeless interior inspiration.
Cotswold Food Hampers
11.3 km
Discover premium handcrafted gourmet hampers celebrating the rich flavors and traditions of the Cotswolds in historic Chipping Campden.
The Malt House Emporium
13.8 km
Discover unique antiques, vintage treasures, and a cozy café experience at The Malt House Emporium near Tewkesbury.
Cotswold Grey
14.3 km
Discover rustic elegance and expert interior design at Cotswold Grey, Moreton-in-Marsh’s premier home furniture and décor destination.
The Cotswold Snug
14.4 km
Discover authentic Cotswold crafts and gifts in a cozy, welcoming shop nestled in the heart of Moreton-in-Marsh’s historic High Street.
The Cotswold Company (Flagship Store)
14.5 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Snowshill Arms
3.8 km
Authentic Cotswold pub offering hearty fare, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the picturesque village of Snowshill.
The Lion Inn
5.4 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.
Hollow Bottom
8.0 km
A historic Cotswold pub blending hearty local fare, warm hospitality, and scenic countryside charm in the heart of Guiting Power.
The Bakers Arms
11.0 km
A timeless Cotswold pub offering hearty fare and warm hospitality in the heart of Broad Campden’s historic village.
Eight Bells Inn
11.5 km
Historic 14th-century inn with cozy rooms, classic pub fare, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Chipping Campden.
The Coach & Horses
12.0 km
A cosy, traditional Cotswold pub in Longborough serving hearty fare, local ales, and welcoming guests with charming B&B rooms.
The Royal Oak, Prestbury
12.5 km
Historic 16th-century pub in Prestbury offering traditional Cotswold charm, seasonal British fare, award-winning ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Watering Hole - Event Bars
13.1 km
Discover The Watering Hole, where exceptional cocktails and event planning unite in the stunning Cotswolds, perfect for weddings and gatherings.
The Cotswold Inn, Cheltenham.
14.7 km
A lively Cheltenham pub blending traditional charm with vibrant live music and a welcoming local atmosphere.
Sheep on Sheep Street
14.7 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.
Copa of Cheltenham
15.0 km
Lively pub and restaurant on Regent Street offering great drinks, tasty pub food, and a welcoming atmosphere with live sports and a beer garden.
The Retreat
15.8 km
A charming Cheltenham wine bar blending historic ambiance with locally sourced cuisine and a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
Kingsbridge
15.9 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 Gloucester Old Spot
17.4 km
A quintessential English pub in Cheltenham offering hearty modern British fare, rare breed pork specialties, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
The House in The Tree
18.0 km
A charming and historic English pub in Cheltenham, serving hearty homemade meals in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with rustic character.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
2 PIGS
14.9 km
A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
Coco
15.1 km
Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.
The 21 Club
15.1 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
Popworld - Cheltenham
15.2 km
Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.
MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
15.2 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Home and Botanic Nightclub
15.3 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
15.3 km
Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.
Under the Prom
15.4 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.
The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
25.8 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
26.4 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
26.4 km
Discover the vibrant world of performing arts at Stratford Play House, where drama, comedy, and culinary delights come together in Stratford-upon-Avon.
ATIK Gloucester
26.6 km
Gloucester’s largest nightclub, ATIK pulses with vibrant music, student nights, and an energetic party atmosphere until the early hours.
Bar Fever Gloucester
26.6 km
Experience Gloucester’s vibrant nightlife at Bar Fever, a trendy nightclub with dynamic music, stylish interiors, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Caz Bar Nightclub
26.6 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.
Jax Nightclub Gloucester
26.8 km
Energetic nightclub in Gloucester offering diverse music, two dance floors, and a welcoming atmosphere for late-night fun.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
