Witley Court & Gardens: A Majestic Ruined Mansion with Stunning Historic Gardens
Explore the haunting ruins and exquisite Victorian gardens of Witley Court, a historic jewel in Worcestershire with stunning fountains and woodland walks.
Witley Court & Gardens in Great Witley, Worcestershire, offers visitors the dramatic ruins of a grand 19th-century mansion set within beautifully restored formal gardens. Famous for its magnificent Perseus and Andromeda fountain, intricate parterres, and woodland walks, the site blends history, nature, and artistry. English Heritage maintains the grounds, which include accessible garden paths, a tearoom nearby, and a gift shop, making it a captivating day out for families and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Witley Court & Gardens
- Worcester Rd, Worcester, Great Witley, WR6 6JT, GB
- +441299896636
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful stroll through the gardens and ruins.
- Don’t miss the Perseus and Andromeda fountain, which operates hourly from April to October.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the spacious garden areas, or visit the nearby tearoom for refreshments.
- The formal gardens are wheelchair accessible, but the mansion ruins have stairs and limited accessibility.
- Consider purchasing an English Heritage membership for free entry and access to many other historic sites.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Birmingham takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is available near the site for a fee of around £3.50 for non-members.
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Train and Taxi
Take a train to Worcester Foregate Street or Shrub Hill stations, then a taxi ride of about 20 minutes to Witley Court & Gardens. Taxi fares typically range from £20 to £30.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Worcester to Great Witley, but services are infrequent and may require walking or taxi from the bus stop to the gardens. Total travel time can exceed 1.5 hours.
Witley Court & Gardens 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 Witley Court & Gardens
The Grandeur and Tragedy of Witley Court
Witley Court was once a palatial 19th-century mansion renowned for its opulence and grandeur. Built and expanded over centuries, it was a symbol of aristocratic wealth and taste. However, a devastating fire in 1937 left the mansion in ruins, dramatically altering its fate. Today, visitors can explore the evocative remains of this once magnificent estate, where the skeletal walls and arches tell stories of a bygone era. The ruins evoke a haunting beauty, offering a glimpse into the architectural splendor that once was.Gardens Designed by William Nesfield
Surrounding the ruins are the magnificent formal gardens, designed by the celebrated Victorian landscape architect William Nesfield. His work from 1854 includes the south parterre with its stunning Perseus and Andromeda fountain, which has been restored to its former glory. The garden design features clipped evergreens, intricate parterre de broderie patterns with box-edged shapes filled with colored gravel and flowers, and elegant plantations creating a tapestry-like effect. The East Parterre showcases the Flora Fountain and exemplifies the embroidery style gardens popular in that era.Enchanting Water Features and Woodland Walks
The gardens are famous for their impressive fountains, especially the Perseus and Andromeda fountain, which operates between April and October with water displays firing on the hour. The fountain’s powerful cascades were once described as sounding like an express train, adding dynamic energy to the serene landscape. Beyond the formal gardens, the woodland walks in the North Park offer a peaceful retreat through diverse tree and shrub species collected from around the world. The rustic Victorian boathouse by the lake adds a charming touch to these natural surroundings.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors can enjoy a range of facilities including accessible garden paths suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters, a nearby tearoom serving refreshments, and a well-stocked gift shop offering local jams, chutneys, wines, and souvenirs. The gardens provide ample picnic areas and seating, making it ideal for families and leisurely strolls. While the mansion ruins have some stairs and are less accessible, the overall site welcomes visitors of varied mobility levels. The atmosphere combines tranquil natural beauty with the intrigue of historic ruins.Local Heritage and Nearby Attractions
Adjacent to Witley Court is Great Witley Church, notable for its Italianate Baroque interior, which is not managed by English Heritage but adds to the cultural richness of the area. The surrounding Worcestershire countryside enhances the experience with its scenic charm. Witley Court & Gardens is part of the English Heritage network, offering members free entry and access to over 400 historic sites across England.Seasonal Highlights and Events
The gardens are open year-round with seasonal variations in opening times and fountain operation. The Perseus and Andromeda fountain runs from April to October, providing a spectacular highlight during warmer months. Live piano music events on Saturdays and family-friendly play areas add to the vibrant visitor experience. English Heritage often hosts special events and guided tours, deepening visitors’ connection to the site’s history and natural beauty.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
War Memorial
22.6 km
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The Fountain
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Tewkesbury Abbey
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Martineau Gardens
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Edgbaston Waterworks Tower
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Discover Birmingham’s Victorian Waterworks Tower, a striking industrial landmark and rumored inspiration for Tolkien’s legendary Two Towers.
National Trust - Wightwick Manor and Gardens
34.9 km
Explore the exquisite Wightwick Manor and Gardens, a Victorian gem filled with art, history, and stunning landscapes in Wolverhampton.
Perrott's Folly
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Cannon Hill Park
35.1 km
Explore Cannon Hill Park: Birmingham's vibrant green space, offering nature trails, recreational activities, and beautiful gardens perfect for relaxation and family fun.
Edgbaston Village
35.2 km
Discover the picturesque Edgbaston Village in Birmingham—where history meets modern charm in a vibrant community setting.
Fountain
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A Victorian memorial fountain anchoring West Bromwich's historic High Street and town centre.
Rotherwas Chapel
35.4 km
Discover Rotherwas Chapel in Hereford - a historical gem that blends rich heritage with serene beauty, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Bantock House
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Explore the historical treasures and serene gardens of Bantock House, a cultural gem in Wolverhampton ideal for art lovers and families.
Herefordshire Light Infantry Museum
35.8 km
Explore the rich military history of the Herefordshire Light Infantry Museum, showcasing artifacts and stories that honor local heroes.
Black and White House Museum
35.9 km
Step into 17th-century Hereford at the Black and White House Museum, a beautifully preserved timber-framed Jacobean home with rich history and engaging exhibits.
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre & LEGO Store Birmingham
36.0 km
Discover the magic of creation at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Birmingham, an indoor adventure filled with LEGO fun, interactive exhibits, and thrilling rides.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fabulous Finds Antiques
4.5 km
Discover eclectic antiques and collectibles from the 1800s to the 1960s in the tranquil rural setting of Holt Heath, Worcester.
National Trust - Wichenford Dovecote
5.3 km
Explore Wichenford Dovecote, a charming 17th-century timbered structure housing hundreds of nesting boxes, a rare symbol of aristocratic rural life in Worcestershire.
Top Barn Farm Shop
6.8 km
Discover fresh local produce, family fun, and scenic farm life at Top Barn Farm Shop & Farm Park near Worcester.
National Trust - Hawford Dovecote
8.7 km
Discover the 16th-century Hawford Dovecote, a charming Tudor timbered relic nestled in Worcestershire’s peaceful countryside.
Hallow Park
8.9 km
Historic 14th-century deer park in Worcester offering lush gardens, family play areas, and tranquil green spaces for all ages.
Hartlebury Castle
9.1 km
Explore Hartlebury Castle’s rich history, grand State Rooms, and peaceful grounds where bishops and royalty once walked.
National Trust - The Firs: Elgar's Birthplace
10.0 km
Step into the serene birthplace of Sir Edward Elgar, where history, music, and nature blend in a charming Worcestershire cottage and garden.
Bewdley Museum
10.5 km
Explore Bewdley’s rich heritage and traditional crafts in a charming free-entry museum set within tranquil gardens and a historic Georgian town.
Gheluvelt Park
11.1 km
A serene World War I memorial park in Worcester offering vibrant recreational spaces and peaceful riverside conservation.
West Midlands Safari Park
11.2 km
Drive through African and Asian habitats to encounter lions, tigers and giraffes in a four-mile safari adventure.
Wyre Forest National Nature Reserve
11.6 km
Explore England’s largest native woodland reserve, a rich mosaic of ancient forest, wildlife habitats, and accessible trails for all ages.
National Trust - Knowles Mill
11.7 km
Explore the tranquil remains of an 18th-century water-powered grain mill nestled in the scenic Wyre Forest near Bewdley.
Lower Brockhampton House
12.1 km
Step back 600 years at Lower Brockhampton, a moated medieval manor surrounded by orchards and woodland on a vast National Trust estate.
The Infirmary Museum
12.3 km
Explore centuries of medical history and innovation at Worcester’s interactive Infirmary Museum, blending science, art, and community heritage.
Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum
12.4 km
Discover Worcester’s rich heritage and British Impressionist art in a charming Victorian museum with engaging exhibitions and family-friendly activities.
Essential places to dine
Green Cow Kitchens
10.6 km
A rustic yet refined farm-to-fork dining experience set in a historic estate’s charming red brick building near Worcester.
The Lamb & Flag
12.1 km
Experience Worcester's vibrant culture at The Lamb & Flag, where traditional charm meets modern dining in a lively atmosphere.
Ounce Bar And Kitchen
12.2 km
Modern steakhouse and whiskey bar in Worcester’s historic heart, blending quality dining with a vibrant atmosphere and unique flavors.
Ostlers At Number 1
12.2 km
Award-winning British restaurant in Worcester offering seasonal, locally sourced dishes in an elegant riverside setting near the city centre.
Valentinos
12.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and generous portions in the warm, inviting atmosphere of Valentinos, Worcester’s beloved Italian restaurant.
Burger Shop Worcester
12.5 km
Creative, locally sourced gourmet burgers served in a unique railway arch setting in the heart of Worcester.
Garden Room Restaurant
12.6 km
Relaxed fine dining with seasonal, locally sourced dishes in a stylish countryside setting at Bank House Hotel's Garden Room Restaurant.
Yeliz Blossom Room Turkish Grill Restaurant
12.6 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality in a historic Worcester setting, perfect for savoring traditional grills and mezes.
Hickory's - Worcester
12.6 km
Savor authentic American barbecue flavors in a lively, family-friendly smokehouse set in Worcester’s scenic Cripplegate Park.
Island
12.7 km
Authentic Greek flavors and warm Mediterranean hospitality in the heart of Worcester’s vibrant Broad Street.
Browns at the Quay
12.8 km
Elegant modern European dining with riverside views, attentive service, and a refined atmosphere in the heart of Worcester.
Bill's Worcester Restaurant
12.8 km
A lively British restaurant in Worcester city centre offering fresh, flavorful dishes and a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.
The Olive Branch Mediterranean Bistro & Wine Bar
12.8 km
A cozy Mediterranean bistro in Worcester offering exceptional tapas, a curated wine list, and a welcoming atmosphere with vegan-friendly options.
Anatolian Palace Turkish Mediterranean Grill Restaurant
12.8 km
Experience authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Worcester’s Crowngate Shopping Centre.
Chesters Restaurant & Bar
13.0 km
Vibrant Mexican and Tex-Mex dining in Worcester with standout vegan options and a lively, colorful atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bluebells
12.0 km
Explore Bluebells Gift Shop in Worcester for unique gifts, local crafts, and memorable souvenirs that capture the essence of your visit.
The Works
12.6 km
Discover creative inspiration and unique gifts at The Works, Worcester’s welcoming hub for books, crafts, and more in Crowngate Shopping Centre.
Maelhaus Vintage and Designer
12.6 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage fashion at Maelhaus Vintage and Designer, Worcester’s curated boutique for iconic clothing and accessories.
The Birders Store
12.6 km
Worcester’s dedicated birdwatching store offering expert advice, premium optics, and a welcoming community for bird enthusiasts.
Toys & Games Of Worcester UK
12.7 km
A traditional Worcester toy shop offering a vast range of toys, games, and trading card tournaments for all ages since 1994.
New England Country Store
12.7 km
Discover charming gifts and home accessories inspired by New England tradition in the heart of Worcester’s historic Broad Street.
House of Fraser
12.8 km
Discover a diverse selection of fashion, beauty, and homeware essentials at House of Fraser Worcester in the heart of Crown Gate.
Cornucopia Home and Gift
12.8 km
Independent gift and homeware haven where curated treasures meet interior design expertise.
Acanthus
12.9 km
Discover unique fashion and artisan accessories in the heart of Worcester’s vibrant Corn Market.
Smart Ideas
12.9 km
Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures at Smart Ideas, a family-run gem in Droitwich Spa’s Salters Centre.
Hothouse Worcester
13.0 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish accessories in the heart of Worcester’s historic Shambles at Hothouse, where quality meets charm.
White Stuff Worcester
13.0 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for men, women, and children at White Stuff Worcester on High Street.
Karma Shack
13.0 km
Discover unique new age gifts and spiritual treasures in Worcester’s welcoming independent Karma Shack.
Sassy Boutique Ltd
13.0 km
Elegant ladies' occasion wear and personalized styling in the heart of Worcester’s vibrant shopping district.
Bygones Of Worcester
13.1 km
Discover timeless antiques and captivating history at Bygones Of Worcester, nestled in the heart of Worcester’s Cathedral Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tap and Run Pub
5.5 km
A welcoming British pub at Martley Cricket Club, blending community spirit, live sports, and rustic charm in Worcestershire’s countryside.
The Mug House
10.1 km
Historic 15th-century pub on consecrated grounds with riverside views, real ales, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere near Worcester.
Alma Tavern
11.2 km
Lively and dog-friendly pub in Worcester with hearty food, cocktails, and a welcoming community vibe.
Coach & Horses
11.9 km
A warm Georgian pub in Worcester offering excellent gastropub fare, lively music, and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Bolero Bar
12.3 km
A vibrant Worcester hotspot blending classic British fare with lively cocktails in a welcoming, spacious setting.
Tonic Bar
12.4 km
A quirky and comfortable cocktail bar in Worcester, blending creative drinks with a stylish, welcoming atmosphere.
The Marrs Bar
12.5 km
Worcester’s iconic live music venue with historic charm, top-tier sound, and vibrant weekly jam nights for music lovers over 18.
The Paul Pry
12.5 km
Historic Victorian pub in Worcester serving seasonal local fare, premium ales, and renowned Sunday roasts in a warm, family-run setting.
Vue Bar
12.6 km
A lively, friendly bar in Worcester’s city centre offering great drinks, casual dining, and a welcoming atmosphere from noon till late.
The Courtyard
12.7 km
A lively bar and escape room venue in Worcester blending social nightlife with interactive dining and entertainment experiences.
Slug & Lettuce - Worcester
12.7 km
Historic charm meets vibrant cocktails in a lively converted church at the heart of Worcester.
The Imperial Tavern
12.7 km
A beloved real ale pub in Worcester offering a rich selection of ales, lively events, and a welcoming traditional atmosphere.
Cocky Anchor
12.7 km
A lively Worcester pub blending quirky charm, quality lagers, and rooftop views for memorable social gatherings.
The Alma
12.8 km
A traditional Worcester pub offering hearty homemade food, lively entertainment, and a warm community atmosphere.
The Firefly Beer Haus
12.8 km
A spacious, quirky beer hall in Worcester offering an exceptional craft beer selection, great burgers, and a vibrant social scene.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Tramps Nightclub
12.6 km
Worcester’s vibrant late-night hotspot offering energetic dance floors, diverse music, and a lively social scene in the heart of the city.
Bushwackers
12.7 km
Experience Worcester’s vibrant nightlife at Bushwackers, a dynamic nightclub with diverse music, multiple bars, and a popular outdoor chill-out area.
The Flag
12.8 km
Worcester’s vibrant LGBT nightclub and gay bar, The Flag offers lively late-night entertainment and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Sin
13.0 km
Experience Worcester’s vibrant nightlife at Sin, a lively nightclub known for energetic music, salsa nights, and a bustling dance floor in the city centre.
Trilogy Hereford
35.7 km
Experience Hereford’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy until the early morning hours.
Snobs
35.9 km
Birmingham's 40-year indie-retro nightclub legend: cheap drinks, themed dance floors, and non-stop beats on Broad Street.
Popworld - Birmingham
36.2 km
Broad Street's ultimate pop party hub: 90s-00s hits, neon dance floors, cocktails, and celebration packages until 3am.
Rosies - Birmingham
36.2 km
Birmingham's ultimate super club: five themed rooms, killer cocktails, and non-stop beats on Broad Street for epic nights out.
Reflex - Birmingham
36.3 km
Spin into 80s-00s nostalgia at Reflex Birmingham: revolving dance floor, karaoke booths, neon vibes, and epic sing-alongs on Broad Street's party strip.
Mango Night Club
36.6 km
A high‑energy Bristol Street nightclub serving Afrobeats, hip‑hop and R&B for late‑night dancers and party crowds in central Birmingham.
Nightingale Club
36.8 km
Birmingham's legendary LGBTQIA+ superclub: three floors of pulsating beats, go-go glamour, and five decades of unapologetic queer joy in the Gay Village.
King of clubs
36.8 km
Compact late‑night Birmingham club for high‑energy R&B, hip‑hop and DJ nights, pulsing into the small hours with neon, bass and bar-driven parties.
101 Night Club
36.8 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at 101 Night Club, Birmingham's vibrant center for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
PAVO Birmingham
36.9 km
Vibrant African fusion lounge and nightclub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where bold flavors meet electrifying beats until 4am on weekends.
Bambu Nightclub
36.9 km
Experience Birmingham’s chic nightlife hotspot with stylish vibes, eclectic music, and late-night dancing at Bambu Nightclub.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Fun-filled
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
- Aesthetic Corners
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
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
