Bowood House & Gardens: A Historic Wiltshire Estate of Natural Beauty and Family Fun
Historic Bowood House & Gardens: Timeless heritage, stunning Capability Brown parkland, and family adventure in Wiltshire’s countryside.
Bowood House & Gardens is the magnificent family home of the Lansdowne family, set within 100 acres of Capability Brown-designed parkland near Calne, Wiltshire. Visitors can explore the historic house with its rich collections, extensive landscaped gardens, a renowned adventure playground, and seasonal woodland gardens featuring rare rhododendrons. Open from late March to early November, Bowood offers a blend of heritage, nature, and family-friendly activities in a tranquil countryside setting.
A brief summary to Bowood House & Gardens
- Old Rd, Calne, Derry Hill, SN11 0LZ, GB
- +441249812102
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Woodland Gardens in spring (mid-April to early June) to see rare rhododendrons in full bloom.
- Explore the Adventure Playground for a fun-filled experience, especially if visiting with children.
- Check seasonal opening times and last admission hours before visiting, as the estate operates from late March to early November.
- Use the designated wheelchair parking and ramps; assistance dogs are welcome, and special early openings are available for visitors with additional needs.
- Enjoy refreshments at the Treehouse Café near the entrance or The Stables café by the house for homemade cakes and meals.
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 central Calne or Chippenham, take the A4 towards Derry Hill village. Parking is complimentary on-site next to admissions. Expect a 15-20 minute drive from Chippenham. Note that access is via the White Gate in Derry Hill; no access from the Golden Gates entrance near the Lansdowne Arms.
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Bus
Bus route 55 stops on the A4 near the turning into Derry Hill village, approximately 1.5 miles from Bowood House & Gardens entrance. From the bus stop, a taxi or a 30-minute walk on rural roads is required. Service frequency varies, so check local timetables.
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Train and Taxi
The nearest mainline train station is Chippenham. From there, taxis to Bowood House & Gardens take about 15 minutes. Alternatively, combine train with bus route 55 as described, but taxis offer more direct access.
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Walking
Walking from Derry Hill village to the estate entrance is possible but involves rural roads and uneven terrain, taking approximately 30 minutes. Not recommended for those with mobility issues or in poor weather.
Bowood House & Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Bowood House & Gardens
A Storied Country Estate with Deep Historical Roots
Bowood House, begun around 1720 and acquired by the 2nd Earl of Shelburne in 1754, stands as a testament to centuries of British aristocratic heritage. The house showcases remarkable interiors including Robert Adam's Library, the Laboratory where Dr Joseph Priestley discovered oxygen in 1774, and a family chapel still in use today. The extensive collection of heirlooms and artworks amassed over 250 years offers visitors a rich glimpse into the Lansdowne family's legacy and British history.Landscaped Gardens by Capability Brown and Later Designers
Surrounding the house are 100 acres of Grade I listed parkland originally designed by the famed landscape architect Capability Brown in the 1760s. The grounds feature a lake, arboretum, pinetum, and a cascade, all set within sweeping parkland that invites leisurely walks and exploration. The upper terrace was designed by Sir Robert Smirk in 1818, with the lower terrace added by George Kennedy in 1851. The pleasure grounds boast an outstanding collection of labelled trees and shrubs, including nine champion trees, reflecting centuries of careful cultivation.The Enchanting Woodland Gardens and Seasonal Highlights
Located nearly two miles from the main house, Bowood’s Woodland Gardens open from mid-April to early June, showcasing one of the earliest rhododendron collections in the country. Established in the mid-19th century by the third Marquis of Lansdowne, this 70-acre woodland oasis features rare hybrid rhododendrons thought extinct elsewhere. The Walled Garden, a four-acre ‘secret garden’ within the estate, offers a sensory experience with meticulously designed flower beds, seasonal blooms, and greenhouses dedicated to environmental protection and inspired learning.Family-Friendly Adventure Playground and Facilities
Bowood is renowned for its extensive Adventure Playground, one of the largest in Wiltshire, featuring a life-size pirate ship, aerial rope walks, giant slides, and the famous Space Dive. The Activity Barn and The Den cater to younger children with engaging activities for under-sevens and under-fours. Ample picnic areas and open parkland provide space for family games and relaxation. On-site cafés such as the Treehouse Café at the entrance and The Stables near the house offer freshly made meals, homemade cakes, and refreshments.Accessibility, Visitor Services, and Seasonal Operations
The estate is wheelchair accessible with designated parking and ramps, though some gravel paths may present challenges. Assistance dogs are welcome, and special monthly early openings cater to visitors with additional needs. Bowood House & Gardens operates seasonally from late March to early November, with daily opening hours generally from 10:30 to 17:30 and last admissions at 16:30. Complimentary parking and coach parking are available on-site. Group rates and half-price admission for visitors with disabilities and their carers are offered.Preserving Heritage While Creating Memorable Experiences
Bowood continues to balance conservation with visitor engagement through exhibitions celebrating 50 years of public open days, guided garden tours, creative workshops, and family activities. The estate’s rich history, architectural elegance, and natural beauty combine to create a timeless destination that appeals to history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families alike, set in the peaceful Wiltshire countryside.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monks Mill
22.7 km
Discover Monks Mill, a rare medieval watermill ruin nestled in Bath’s picturesque Parade Gardens, echoing centuries of monastic industry and wool trade heritage.
The EASTGATE
22.8 km
Explore The EASTGATE, a captivating historical landmark in Bath, showcasing stunning Georgian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
22.9 km
Experience the rich history and delectable flavors at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum in Bath, where tradition meets taste.
Parte de la muralla medieval de la ciudad de Bath
22.9 km
Explore a rare surviving fragment of Bath’s medieval city wall, a gateway to the city’s rich Roman and medieval heritage.
Marshal Wade's House
22.9 km
Discover the elegance and history of Marshal Wade's House in Bath, a stunning Georgian architectural gem that tells the stories of the past.
Elton House
22.9 km
Discover the charm of Elton House, a self-catering accommodation in Bath perfect for experiencing the city's rich heritage and vibrant culture.
Bath Ghost Tours
22.9 km
Explore the haunted history of Bath with Bath Ghost Tours, where chilling tales and eerie encounters bring the city's past to life.
Best of Bath Walking Tours
22.9 km
Explore Bath's rich heritage and stunning sights with the Best of Bath Walking Tours, where history and beauty come alive on every step.
Bath Walking Tours
22.9 km
Explore Bath’s rich history and stunning architecture through expert-led walking tours starting at Abbey Courtyard.
Bath's Historic Venues
22.9 km
Explore Bath's Historic Venues, where elegance meets history in the heart of the city. Perfect for weddings, conferences, and unforgettable events.
The Roman Baths
22.9 km
Explore the ancient marvel of The Roman Baths in Bath, England, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that reveals the grandeur of Roman life through its well-preserved baths and captivating history.
Bath World Heritage Centre
22.9 km
Explore the rich history of Bath at the World Heritage Centre, your gateway to the city’s remarkable past and UNESCO heritage.
Archway
22.9 km
Discover Bath’s elegant Victorian Archway, a historic stone bridge carrying spa waters across York Street in the city’s UNESCO heritage heart.
The Pump Room Restaurant
22.9 km
Experience exquisite British and European cuisine in a historic setting at The Pump Room Restaurant, a must-visit gem in Bath.
Museum of Bath at Work
23.0 km
Explore Bath’s Industrial Heritage at the Museum of Bath at Work – A Journey Through Time and Craftsmanship.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bowood Woodland Gardens
1.9 km
A seasonal floral haven in Wiltshire showcasing spectacular bluebells, magnolias, azaleas, and rhododendrons across 30 serene woodland acres.
Morgan's Hill
5.7 km
Discover Morgan's Hill, a tranquil chalk grassland reserve rich in rare orchids, butterflies, historic earthworks, and sweeping Wiltshire vistas.
Lacock Abbey
5.9 km
Discover Lacock Abbey: centuries of history, stunning architecture, and magical Harry Potter film scenes in Wiltshire’s enchanting countryside.
Yelde Hall
6.2 km
Step into Chippenham’s medieval past at Yelde Hall, a historic timber-framed gem blending civic heritage with vibrant local culture.
Cherhill White Horse
7.5 km
Historic chalk hill figure carved in 1780, offering stunning views and a unique glimpse into Wiltshire’s heritage.
Oldbury Castle Hillfort
7.5 km
Explore Oldbury Castle Hillfort, an ancient Iron Age stronghold with breathtaking views and rich prehistoric heritage on Wiltshire’s Cherhill Downs.
Kennet and Avon Canal
8.7 km
Historic 57-mile canal linking London to Bristol with iconic locks, aqueducts, and scenic towpaths through England’s picturesque countryside.
Wiltshire Museum
9.3 km
Discover 500,000 years of Wiltshire’s history through award-winning galleries and stunning Bronze Age treasures in the heart of Devizes.
Lowden Garden Centre
10.5 km
Discover Lowden Garden Centre: your go-to spot for gardening delights, fresh local produce, and cozy dining in the heart of Wiltshire.
Windmill Hill, Avebury
11.3 km
Explore Windmill Hill, a vast Neolithic causewayed enclosure with panoramic views and deep prehistoric significance within Avebury's ancient landscape.
Middlewick House
11.5 km
Explore the stunning gardens, classic car collection, and vibrant community spirit at Nick Mason’s historic Middlewick House estate.
National Trust - Avebury Manor
12.4 km
Explore a historic 16th-century manor and stunning gardens nestled within the world’s largest Neolithic stone circle in Wiltshire.
National Trust Museum
12.6 km
Explore Britain’s prehistoric heritage through the remarkable artefacts and stories at the Alexander Keiller Museum in Avebury’s ancient heartland.
Silbury Hill
12.6 km
Explore Silbury Hill, Europe's largest prehistoric chalk mound, a monumental mystery towering over the Wiltshire landscape since 2400 BC.
Avebury
12.7 km
Explore Avebury, the world’s largest Neolithic stone circle, a monumental prehistoric landscape of mystery, ritual, and enduring heritage.
Essential places to dine
Sign of the Angel
6.0 km
Step into history at Sign of the Angel, a 15th-century coaching inn in Lacock offering cozy charm, excellent food, and timeless English hospitality.
Bybrook
15.2 km
Michelin-starred modern British fine dining in a historic Cotswold manor with fresh, seasonal produce from its own kitchen garden.
Grey's Brasserie
18.8 km
Sophisticated yet relaxed dining at Whatley Manor, featuring globally inspired small plates and traditional Sunday roasts in a stunning Cotswolds setting.
Bathampton Mill Bath
20.2 km
Historic riverside gastropub blending traditional British charm with scenic views and modern dining near Bath.
The Silks
21.6 km
Historic Victorian pub in Wiltshire serving seasonal British fare by MasterChef Champion Thomas Frake, blending heritage with community spirit.
Bathwick Boatman Riverside
22.1 km
Charming riverside dining in Bath’s historic boathouse, serving fresh seasonal dishes with warm, family-run hospitality.
The Restaurant at The Bird
22.3 km
Stylish, sustainable dining in Bathwick with modern British dishes, festive charm, and stunning views of Bath Abbey.
Hudson Steakhouse
22.7 km
Experience expertly aged steaks and Victorian charm in Bath’s beloved Hudson Steakhouse, where tradition meets refined dining.
Ponte Vecchio
22.7 km
Bath’s finest Italian restaurant in a converted riverside boathouse, with stunning views of Pulteney Bridge and the weir.
Opa Bath
22.7 km
Experience authentic Greek meze and vibrant nightlife in atmospheric vaulted cellars by Bath’s River Avon.
The Herd Steak Restaurant
22.7 km
A cozy, family-run steakhouse in Bath famed for locally sourced, dry-aged beef and impeccable service in a unique basement setting.
La Perla
22.7 km
Discover authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant flavors in the cozy, atmospheric arches beneath Bath’s historic streets.
Antica Bath Restaurant
22.7 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the charming Bathwick neighborhood at Antica Bath Restaurant.
Chez Dominique
22.7 km
Intimate modern French bistro in Bath offering seasonal Anglo-French cuisine with expertly crafted dishes and warm, attentive service.
The Elder Restaurant
22.7 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine with a focus on seasonal wild game in Bath’s elegant Georgian setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Gift Box
2.6 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish fashion accessories in a charming Calne boutique with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
O L I V
6.0 km
Discover artisan candles, homewares, and unique gifts at O L I V, a charming boutique nestled in historic Lacock village.
National Trust Gift Shop
6.0 km
Discover unique, eco-friendly gifts and local artisan treasures in a historic Lacock High Street setting.
Quintessentially English
6.1 km
A charming Wiltshire gift shop in Lacock, specializing in handmade soaps, candles, and artisanal beauty products with a distinctly English character.
CoCo Chemistry Chocolates
6.1 km
Handcrafted luxury chocolates in the historic village of Lacock, blending tradition, quality, and charm for a truly sweet experience.
Emery Gate Shopping Centre
6.3 km
Chippenham’s only covered shopping centre offering national brands, local shops, cafes, and ample parking in a convenient central location.
Natural Treats Wiltshire - Raw Dog Food Store
8.9 km
Premium raw dog food and natural treats in Melksham, serving conscious pet owners with expert nutrition guidance.
Willow Uk Ltd
10.2 km
Discover timeless gifts, antiques, and design inspiration at Willow UK Ltd, Corsham’s boutique blending art and heritage.
Previous Homewares
10.2 km
Discover quirky gifts, vintage treasures, and beautiful homewares at Corsham’s beloved boutique, Previous Homewares.
National Trust shop
12.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures in a historic stables building at the heart of Avebury’s ancient village.
The Henge Shop
12.6 km
Explore Celtic and Pagan treasures, spiritual guidance, and artisan crafts in the heart of Avebury Stone Circle.
Avebury Community Shop
12.6 km
Explore the Avebury Community Shop for unique local products, artisan goods, and a taste of Marlborough's vibrant culture.
Elements of Avebury
12.7 km
Discover authentic local artistry and spiritual treasures in the heart of Avebury’s ancient stone circle.
Wadswick Country Store
13.0 km
Wiltshire’s premier country store offering expert equestrian gear, outdoor clothing, and rural lifestyle essentials in a scenic countryside setting.
The Wiltshire Gift Co
18.2 km
Discover unique gifts and candles in a vibrant garden centre setting with family-friendly attractions and local charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The George Inn
2.0 km
A classic village pub in Sandy Lane offering hearty home-cooked meals, cozy rooms, and warm local hospitality.
The Ivy Inn
4.4 km
A traditional Wiltshire pub offering cozy charm, fresh food, real ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Heddington.
Westbrook Inn
4.7 km
Charming countryside pub near Chippenham offering extensive vegan options, hearty meals, and a warm, relaxed atmosphere.
The Three Crowns
5.8 km
A lively, traditional pub in Chippenham known for real ales, live music, and a welcoming community spirit.
The Flying Monk
6.2 km
A friendly and lively pub in Chippenham’s Market Place, renowned for craft ales, community events, and warm hospitality.
The Cellar by Wine Monkey
6.4 km
A boutique wine bar and shop in Chippenham offering expertly curated wines, small plates, and a cozy, stylish atmosphere for wine lovers.
The White Horse Inn
6.7 km
Traditional Wiltshire pub and guesthouse offering homemade food, local ales, cosy rooms, and a warm countryside welcome in Compton Bassett.
Old Road Tavern
6.7 km
A traditional Chippenham pub with quality ales, lively music, and a welcoming garden, cherished by locals and visitors alike.
The Wellesley Arms
9.1 km
Historic coaching inn turned gastropub offering hearty British fare and cozy village charm in Sutton Benger near Chippenham.
Melt Bars - Mobile Event & Cocktail Bars
10.8 km
Bespoke handcrafted mobile bars and expert cocktail service tailored for events across the UK from Chippenham’s premier specialists.
Waggon & Horses
11.6 km
Historic 17th-century gastropub with cosy charm, scenic garden views of Silbury Hill, and a celebrated menu featuring local and gluten-free delights.
Red Lion
12.7 km
A charming traditional pub in Avebury offering hearty food, local stories, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere near the ancient stone circles.
The Quarrymans Arms, Box Hill
14.0 km
Charming countryside pub and boutique inn on Box Hill with stunning views, hearty local fare, and cozy rooms near Corsham and Bath.
The Somerford Arms
14.5 km
A family-run village pub in Little Somerford offering exceptional food, warm hospitality, and a charming countryside atmosphere.
The Full Glass Bar
15.3 km
Historic charm meets modern luxury at The Full Glass Bar, a refined cocktail and wine haven in Castle Combe’s iconic Manor House.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
E11evn's Nightclub
6.5 km
A lively late-night hotspot in Chippenham offering weekend clubbing with a spirited local vibe and energetic dance floors.
Venue Five-0 Night Club
15.7 km
Energetic weekend nights and diverse music await at Venue Five-0 Night Club, Royal Wootton Bassett’s lively nightlife hotspot.
The Tub
20.8 km
A vibrant student nightclub on University of Bath campus, perfect for dancing, socializing, and late-night fun in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
22.8 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub with four unique rooms, eclectic music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Lomah
22.8 km
Experience Bath’s industrial-chic nightlife at Lomah, a stylish underground club with hip hop beats and a laidback vibe for 21+ guests.
Second Bridge
22.8 km
A lively nightclub in Bath offering cocktails, shisha, and a buzzing beer garden for vibrant nightlife experiences.
Zero / Zero
22.9 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Zero / Zero, a cozy nightclub and cocktail lounge with a lively atmosphere and late-night beats.
Sub 13
23.0 km
Bath’s award-winning cocktail bar and nightclub offering masterclasses, vibrant nightlife, and a heated terrace in a stylish three-floor venue.
Komedia
23.1 km
Bath’s vibrant community-owned venue offering comedy, live music, cabaret, and more in a beautifully restored historic cinema.
ReVA Nightclub
32.3 km
Cirencester’s largest nightclub offering electrifying music, stylish cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Capones
35.6 km
Historic nightclub in Dursley with legendary ties to Al Capone, offering vibrant weekend nightlife and pulsating music.
Trio Nightclub
37.2 km
Experience Stroud’s vibrant nightlife at Trio Nightclub, where music, dancing, and energetic vibes light up weekend nights.
Dare to Club
37.2 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
Motion
37.3 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
The Loco Klub
37.8 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
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
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- 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
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly