West Banqueting House, Chipping Campden
Experience the grandeur of Jacobean England in West Banqueting House, a beautifully preserved historic retreat in the heart of Chipping Campden.
West Banqueting House is a remarkable Jacobean building in Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire, part of the historic Old Campden House estate. Built in the early 17th century by Sir Baptist Hicks, it served as a dedicated venue for elegant banquets and private retreats. Today, it stands as a beautifully preserved example of Jacobean architecture, offering visitors a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the English gentry before the Civil War. The house features richly decorated interiors, vaulted chambers, and underfloor heating, blending historic charm with modern comforts.
A brief summary to West Banqueting House
- Chipping Campden, Chipping Campden, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book your stay well in advance through the Landmark Trust to experience overnight accommodation in this historic Jacobean building.
- Explore the nearby remains of Old Campden House and the charming town of Chipping Campden for a full historical experience.
- Be prepared for uneven stone and spiral staircases inside the building; it may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.
- Enjoy the unique atmosphere of a 17th-century banquet by dining in the vaulted ground floor chamber, restored with modern comforts.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Bus
Take a train to Moreton-in-Marsh from London Paddington or Birmingham, a journey of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. From Moreton-in-Marsh, catch a local bus or taxi to Chipping Campden, which takes around 15 to 20 minutes. Bus services may be limited on weekends, so check schedules in advance. Taxi fares from Moreton-in-Marsh typically range from £15 to £25.
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Car
Driving to Chipping Campden via the A44 or A429 is straightforward, with journey times from Birmingham or Oxford around 1.5 hours. Parking is available in designated town car parks near the High Street, but spaces can be limited during peak tourist seasons. Some narrow streets and historic areas have restricted vehicle access.
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Walking
For visitors staying nearby in Chipping Campden, the West Banqueting House is accessible on foot via Church Street. The walk involves cobbled and uneven surfaces, so comfortable footwear is recommended. The terrain is generally easy but may be challenging for those with mobility impairments.
West Banqueting House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about West Banqueting House
Legacy of Sir Baptist Hicks and the Old Campden Estate
West Banqueting House is one of the surviving fragments of the grand Old Campden House estate, originally built in 1612 by Sir Baptist Hicks, a wealthy mercer and financier with strong ties to Gloucestershire. Hicks invested heavily in his estate, creating one of the most impressive Italianate mansions of its time, complete with ornamental gardens and two separate banqueting houses. The estate symbolized Hicks’ social ascent and his role as a prominent establishment figure. Unfortunately, during the English Civil War, the main house was occupied by Royalist troops and subsequently set ablaze in 1645, leaving only the banqueting houses and a few ancillary buildings intact.Architectural Splendor of the Banqueting Houses
The West Banqueting House exemplifies Jacobean design with its distinctive roofline, classical details, and fine Cotswold stone construction. The building was designed as a venue for private banquets, where Sir Baptist Hicks and his guests would retire after the main meal to enjoy fine wines, dried fruits, and sweetmeats while overlooking the gardens and countryside. The ground floor features a large barrel-vaulted chamber with hearths at either end, once likely serving as a kitchen, now restored with modern underfloor heating. The first floor retains fragments of Jacobean plasterwork and panelling, offering a rare glimpse of the lavish interior decoration that once adorned the entire estate.Historical Significance and Social Context
The banqueting houses were more than dining spaces; they were private retreats for the family and close friends, separated from the main household bustle. The buildings also reflect the social customs of early 17th-century England, where banquets were elaborate affairs combining culinary artistry and social display. The design may have been influenced by John Thorpe, a notable architect of the era, who also designed Hicks’ London residence. The estate’s history is intertwined with local legends such as The Campden Wonder, involving William Harrison, steward to Lady Juliana Hicks, who lived in one of the banqueting houses.Preservation and Modern Use
Today, the West Banqueting House is managed by the Landmark Trust, which has sensitively restored the building to retain its historic character while equipping it with modern comforts. Visitors can stay overnight, experiencing the atmosphere of a Jacobean banquet house firsthand. The nearby Almonry, once misnamed but possibly a garden pavilion or household office, complements the site with additional accommodation. The Landmark Trust’s stewardship ensures the preservation of this unique heritage site, enabling guests to immerse themselves in the history and architecture of early Stuart England.Setting Within Chipping Campden
Situated in the picturesque Cotswold town of Chipping Campden, the West Banqueting House overlooks the remains of Old Campden House and is close to the historic St James Church. The surrounding area is rich in heritage architecture, including almshouses and market halls funded by Sir Baptist Hicks. The site offers scenic views of the town and countryside, enhancing its appeal as a tranquil retreat steeped in history.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Staying or visiting the West Banqueting House offers a unique blend of historical immersion and comfort. The building’s vaulted rooms, Jacobean plaster friezes, and stone construction create an evocative atmosphere of early 17th-century elegance. The combination of historic features and modern amenities like underfloor heating makes it a comfortable and memorable destination. The site’s quiet charm and architectural beauty make it a standout example of Jacobean heritage in the Cotswolds.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
West Banqueting House
0.0 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
0.1 km
Explore the evocative ruins and Jacobean heritage of Old Campden House, a grand 17th-century mansion touched by history and time.
Anne Hathaway's Cottage
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Hall's Croft
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Explore Hall's Croft in Stratford-upon-Avon - a historical museum dedicated to Shakespeare's legacy with beautiful gardens and fascinating exhibitions.
The Stratford Chain Ferry
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Experience the charm of Stratford-upon-Avon on the Stratford Chain Ferry, where scenic views and history come together on the River Avon.
Shakespeare's England
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Discover the enchanting world of Shakespeare's England in Stratford-upon-Avon, where literary history meets picturesque landscapes and rich culture.
Almshouses
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Explore the Almshouses of Stratford-upon-Avon, a historic site reflecting the town's rich heritage and commitment to community care.
Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall
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Explore Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall: A historic site where the Bard's journey began, rich in culture and literary heritage.
The Guild Chapel
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Medieval masterpiece with rare wall paintings hidden for centuries—a window into pre-Reformation England.
Stratford Upon Avon Bandstand
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Shakespeare's New Place
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New Place Gardens
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Stratford Butterfly Farm
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First Church Of Christ Scientist, Stratford upon Avon
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Royal Shakespeare Theatre
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Unmissable attractions to see
Chipping Campden
0.5 km
A timeless Cotswold market town blending medieval wool trade heritage, stunning limestone architecture, and scenic countryside trails.
National Trust - Dover's Hill
1.8 km
Historic hilltop birthplace of the Cotswold Olimpick Games with sweeping Cotswold vistas.
National Trust - Hidcote
4.0 km
Explore the enchanting Arts and Crafts garden rooms and sculptures of Hidcote Manor, a National Trust gem in the Cotswolds.
Kiftsgate Court Gardens
4.1 km
A legendary Cotswold garden where three generations of women gardeners cultivated rare plants and the world's largest rose.
Broadway Tower
5.1 km
Explore Broadway Tower, a historical landmark in the Cotswolds offering stunning views and rich heritage in a picturesque setting.
Broadway
5.7 km
Explore Broadway, the enchanting jewel of the Cotswolds, where history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty await every traveler.
Broadway Museum & Art Gallery
5.8 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.
Cotswold Falconry Centre
6.6 km
Discover the majesty of birds of prey through thrilling displays and close encounters at the Cotswold Falconry Centre in scenic Batsford.
Cotswold Lavender
7.2 km
Immerse yourself in the fragrant, scenic lavender fields of Cotswold Lavender, a seasonal farm experience in the heart of Snowshill’s countryside.
Bourton House Garden
7.3 km
Explore the tranquil elegance of Bourton House Garden, a historic Cotswold gem with exquisite topiary, a White Garden, and stunning countryside views.
National Trust - Snowshill Manor and Garden
7.9 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.
Snowshill
8.0 km
Discover Snowshill, a charming Cotswold village where historic manor, vibrant gardens, and lavender fields create a serene and captivating escape.
Sezincote House & Garden
8.4 km
Discover Sezincote, a breathtaking Mughal-style Indian palace and romantic garden nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Shenberrow Hill
9.5 km
Discover Shenberrow Hill’s tranquil landscapes and charming village atmosphere on the scenic edge of the Cotswolds.
Cotswold Barn
9.8 km
Charming family-run café and gift shop in a rustic barn with scenic countryside views and lively motor events in the North Cotswolds.
Essential places to dine
Fig Restaurant, Campden
0.4 km
A stylish modern European restaurant in Chipping Campden, serving seasonal dishes and elegant afternoon tea within the Cotswold House Hotel & Spa.
The Ebrington Arms
3.1 km
A timeless Cotswold village pub offering rustic charm, gourmet dining, and cozy country accommodation in idyllic Ebrington.
The Back Garden
3.7 km
Elegant garden-inspired dining at Dormy House, blending Cotswold produce with Mediterranean flair in a sunlit, serene setting.
MO
3.7 km
Exclusive chef’s table dining with innovative seasonal cuisine in an intimate Cotswolds setting at Dormy House.
The Shed
3.7 km
A relaxed Cotswold bar and restaurant with roaring fires, local food, and a convivial atmosphere, perfect for drinks, light meals, and easygoing evenings.
Russell’s of Broadway
6.1 km
Elegant boutique hotel and acclaimed restaurant blending historic charm with refined British cuisine in the heart of Broadway, Cotswolds.
Horse and Groom
7.0 km
Quintessential Cotswolds pub with hearty British fare, cozy rooms, and stunning countryside views in Bourton-on-the-Hill.
Buckland Manor
8.0 km
Elegant historic manor hotel with fine dining and tranquil gardens in the heart of the Cotswolds’ charming Broadway village.
the scenic supper
9.7 km
Experience farm-to-table dining in a stunning Cotswold glasshouse with seasonal menus and panoramic countryside views.
The Oak Room Restaurant
12.2 km
Elegant dining in a historic setting at Ettington Park, where refined British cuisine meets warm, attentive service.
The Old Stocks Inn
14.0 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 Halfway at Kineton
14.0 km
A charming 17th-century Cotswold pub blending rustic ambiance with refined seasonal British cuisine and warm hospitality.
The Old Butchers
14.2 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 Royal Oak
15.5 km
Michelin-starred Cotswolds gastropub where 800 years of history meets wild, foraged fine dining.
salt
16.0 km
Experience modern British fine dining in Stratford’s charming timbered setting, where seasonal flavors and artistic dishes create an unforgettable tasting journey.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cotswold Food Hampers
0.3 km
Discover premium handcrafted gourmet hampers celebrating the rich flavors and traditions of the Cotswolds in historic Chipping Campden.
Cotswold Luxe
0.5 km
Luxury home furnishings and artisanal décor curated for timeless interior inspiration.
The Attic
0.5 km
Sustainable luxury fashion in the heart of the Cotswolds—designer pieces with character and conscience.
Mooch The Cotswolds - Handmade Homeware & Clothing
0.5 km
Discover handcrafted luxury sleepwear and homeware inspired by Cotswold heritage, crafted with passion and sustainable artistry.
Whatever The Weather
6.0 km
Discover unique gifts and charming curiosities in a historic thatched cottage at the heart of Broadway’s picturesque High Street.
Cotswold Trading - Broadway
6.0 km
A stylish homewares and gift shop in the heart of Broadway, offering curated kitchenware, décor, and presents with a distinctly British flair.
Cotswolds Distillery Shop
6.1 km
Discover the heart of Cotswolds spirits craftsmanship at the Broadway shop, home to award-winning whiskies and gins.
The Man Cave Broadway
6.1 km
Eclectic collectibles and gifts in a historic Cotswolds village setting.
Wild at Heart
6.2 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
6.2 km
Vintage treasures and handmade goods celebrating independent makers in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Cotswold Grey
8.4 km
Discover rustic elegance and expert interior design at Cotswold Grey, Moreton-in-Marsh’s premier home furniture and décor destination.
The Cotswold Snug
8.5 km
Discover authentic Cotswold crafts and gifts in a cozy, welcoming shop nestled in the heart of Moreton-in-Marsh’s historic High Street.
The Cotswold Company (Flagship Store)
14.1 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.
Ella's Emporium
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The Curated Store
14.1 km
Discover unique vintage fashion, artisan homewares, and timeless treasures in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold’s charming market square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Eight Bells Inn
0.1 km
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The Bakers Arms
1.5 km
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The Watering Hole - Event Bars
3.8 km
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The Howard Arms Ilmington
7.3 km
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Snowshill Arms
8.0 km
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The Coach & Horses
10.0 km
A cosy, traditional Cotswold pub in Longborough serving hearty fare, local ales, and welcoming guests with charming B&B rooms.
Sheep on Sheep Street
14.2 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 Fox at Oddington
15.5 km
Historic 16th-century Cotswold pub blending rustic charm with organic cuisine and cozy countryside stays in Lower Oddington.
Hollow Bottom
15.7 km
A historic Cotswold pub blending hearty local fare, warm hospitality, and scenic countryside charm in the heart of Guiting Power.
The Bull - El Toro | Stratford-Upon-Avon
15.7 km
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Windmill
16.0 km
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The Keys
16.2 km
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Rose & Crown
16.2 km
Classic English pub charm with hearty fare, friendly service, and a spacious garden in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon.
All Bar One Stratford Upon Avon
16.2 km
Stylish wine bar in Stratford offering diverse dining, full bar, and a relaxed, accessible atmosphere near Shakespeare’s birthplace.
The Avon Lounge
16.2 km
A lively cocktail bar in Stratford-upon-Avon known for friendly hosts, great music, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for evening socializing.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
15.6 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
16.2 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
16.2 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
16.4 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
26.5 km
A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
Coco
26.6 km
Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.
The 21 Club
26.7 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
Popworld - Cheltenham
26.8 km
Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.
MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
26.8 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, VIP vibes, and late-night energy at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Home and Botanic Nightclub
26.9 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
26.9 km
Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.
Under the Prom
26.9 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.
The Cavern
29.4 km
A vibrant night club in Warwick offering energetic music, lively dancing, and a social atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Neon
30.7 km
Leamington Spa’s largest nightclub, Neon delivers vibrant music, themed nights, and a dynamic party atmosphere every Friday until dawn.
Altoria Nightclub
31.3 km
Experience Leamington Spa’s vibrant nightlife at Altoria Nightclub with diverse music floors, VIP service, and a unique rooftop terrace open till 3 am.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
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
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
