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Avebury Manor and Garden: A Historic Jewel in Wiltshire’s Ancient Landscape

Explore a historic 16th-century manor and stunning gardens nestled within the world’s largest Neolithic stone circle in Wiltshire.

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Avebury Manor and Garden is a captivating 16th-century manor house surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens, located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Avebury in Wiltshire, England. The manor offers a unique glimpse into centuries of history through its period-decorated rooms, while the gardens feature themed ‘rooms’ such as the Kitchen Garden and Lavender Walk. Adjacent to the manor is the world’s largest Neolithic stone circle, making this a remarkable destination blending heritage, archaeology, and nature.

A brief summary to National Trust - Avebury Manor

  • High St, Marlborough, Avebury, SN8 1RF, GB
  • +441672538016
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2 to 4 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Check the National Trust website before visiting as the manor may close temporarily for restoration or special events.
  • Wear sensible shoes due to uneven and occasionally muddy paths around the stone circle and gardens.
  • Visit during the Christmas season to enjoy festive decorations and local artisan markets at the manor.
  • Allow time to explore the adjacent Alexander Keiller Museum for fascinating archaeological insights.
  • Dogs on leads are welcome in the gardens and grounds but not inside the manor or café.
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Getting There

  • Train and Bus

    Take a train to Swindon or Pewsey railway stations, then catch a local bus service 49 towards Avebury. The bus journey takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes from either station. Bus services run regularly but check schedules in advance. Tickets cost around £5-£10 GBP.

  • Car

    Driving from Marlborough or Swindon, expect a 15 to 25-minute journey. Parking is available near the site with a charge of approximately £5-£7 GBP per day. Note that some roads near Avebury are narrow and parking spaces limited during peak times.

  • Walking

    For those staying locally in Avebury village, a gentle 10 to 15-minute walk on uneven terrain leads to the manor and gardens. Wear sturdy footwear due to occasional mud and grassy paths.

National Trust - Avebury Manor location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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A Manor Steeped in History and Character

Avebury Manor stands as a remarkable example of a 16th-century English manor house, rich with history and stories of its many owners. Each room inside the manor is uniquely decorated to reflect different historical periods, offering visitors an immersive experience where they can sit on period furniture, read books, and imagine life through the centuries. The manor was once home to Alexander Keiller, a pioneering archaeologist whose work helped illuminate the prehistoric significance of the surrounding landscape.

The Gardens: A Tapestry of Design and Nature

The gardens at Avebury Manor are divided into distinct ‘rooms’ that mirror the manor’s historical styles. Visitors can explore the organically tended Kitchen Garden, the potager-style Monk’s Garden, the Topiary Garden, Lavender Walk, Orchard, Italian Walk, and the Half-Moon Garden, noted for its curved wall designed to support climbers. The gardens also feature a Sensory Woodland Walk, enhancing the natural experience with art installations and seasonal blooms, making it a photogenic and tranquil setting.

Ancient Heritage in the Landscape

Avebury Manor is situated within the Avebury World Heritage Site, home to the largest stone circle in the world, dating back over 4,300 years. This prehistoric landscape includes massive henge banks, ditches, and avenues of standing stones, allowing visitors to wander freely among these ancient monuments. The nearby Alexander Keiller Museum offers interactive displays and archaeological finds that deepen understanding of the Neolithic and Bronze Age cultures that shaped this area.

A Hub for Cultural Events and Festivities

The manor and gardens host seasonal events, including the popular ‘Christmas at Avebury Manor’ with festive decorations and local artisan markets. These events provide a lively cultural atmosphere, blending heritage with community spirit. The Old Farmyard nearby offers cafés, gift shops, a second-hand bookshop, and visitor facilities, enhancing the overall experience.

Visitor Experience and Practical Information

The site is welcoming to families, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike, with wheelchair access, guide dog allowance, and facilities such as toilets and a café. Dogs on leads are welcome in the gardens and grounds, though not inside the manor or café. The terrain can be uneven and muddy, so sensible footwear is recommended. The manor and gardens typically require an admission fee, while the stone circle itself is free to explore.

Preservation and Sustainability Efforts

Managed by the National Trust, Avebury Manor and Garden benefits from conservation efforts that protect its historic fabric and natural environment. The gardens are maintained with organic practices, and the site encourages responsible visitor behavior to preserve its unique heritage for future generations.

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