Boarstall Tower
A unique 14th-century moated tower offering a glimpse into medieval history with charming gardens and panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Only days it's open!
Boarstall Tower
Best Time
Only days it's open!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique 14th-century moated tower offering a glimpse into medieval history with charming gardens and panoramic views.
"A fun quirky tower with great welcoming, knowledgeable and friendly guides.
"🎯 Check Opening Times First
Boarstall Tower is only open on limited days, often 5 Sundays a year. Always verify on the National Trust site!
🧺 Perfect for a Picnic
The gardens are ideal for a relaxed picnic. Bring your own food and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Quaint Tower
The central fortified tower
A unique 14th-century fortified home with a moat, offering great views from the top.
The Gardens
Surrounding the tower
Well-kept gardens provide a peaceful setting for a stroll or a picnic.
The Duck Decoy
A short walk away
An intriguing historical site nearby, perfect for extending your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Times Carefully
Plan for a Short Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Opening Times First
Boarstall Tower is only open on limited days, often 5 Sundays a year. Always verify on the National Trust site!
🧺 Perfect for a Picnic
The gardens are ideal for a relaxed picnic. Bring your own food and enjoy the serene surroundings.
🚶♀️ Explore the Duck Decoy
Don't miss the nearby historical Duck Decoy for a fuller day out.
🗣️ Friendly Guides
The guides are knowledgeable and welcoming, making the history come alive.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Opening Times First
Boarstall Tower is only open on limited days, often 5 Sundays a year. Always verify on the National Trust site!
🧺 Perfect for a Picnic
The gardens are ideal for a relaxed picnic. Bring your own food and enjoy the serene surroundings.
🚶♀️ Explore the Duck Decoy
Don't miss the nearby historical Duck Decoy for a fuller day out.
🗣️ Friendly Guides
The guides are knowledgeable and welcoming, making the history come alive.
📸 Great Views from Top
Climb to the roof for fantastic panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Boarstall Tower for its unique historical charm, well-kept gardens, and the exceptional knowledge and friendliness of its guides. The opportunity to climb the tower for views is a definite highlight. However, the extremely limited opening hours and the relatively brief nature of the visit are common points of consideration.
"A lovely little fortified home with gardens, church and moat. Good guided tour telling you it's history and well kept gardens. Free parking. Nice place to enjoy a picnic but only need to plan couple of hours maximum. Check the site for opening times, as dies have very restricted visiting."
Sam Burbidge
"A fun quirky tower. Great welcoming, knowledgeable and friendly guides. Super tour. Guides went specially back to their car to get guide leaflet for me. Good views once you get up to the top. Nice garden 🌹🥀. Check out the opening times as it's not open all that frequently. Would recommend a visit.
Check out the duck decoy too just around the corner. 🦆🦆🦆"
Pink Unicorn
"Visited in June for the Boarstall fete, it was lovely but the tower, which is a National Trust property is only open 5 Sunday's across the whole year!"
alistair cruickshank
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Boarstall Tower is located near Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire. While public transport options are limited, driving is the most convenient way to reach it. Free parking is usually available on-site, especially if you arrive early.
Yes, free parking is available for visitors. Arriving early is recommended, particularly on open days, to secure a spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Boarstall Tower has very restricted opening times, often only open on a few specific Sundays throughout the year. It's crucial to check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date visiting information before your visit.
Given the limited opening days, it's advisable to check the National Trust website for any booking requirements. However, for general visits on open days, tickets are typically available on arrival.
As a National Trust property, entry fees may apply. It's best to consult the National Trust's official website for current admission prices and any membership benefits.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the unique 14th-century fortified tower, wander through the well-kept gardens, and enjoy the views from the roof. A guided tour provides historical insights.
While children might enjoy the tower and gardens, some visitors suggest it's more suited for adults or older children due to the limited interactive elements.
Yes, visitors can climb to the roof of the tower for excellent views, usually guided by staff.
Yes, guided tours are offered and are highly recommended for learning about the tower's history. The guides are known for being knowledgeable and friendly.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Boarstall Tower itself typically does not have extensive food facilities. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own picnics to enjoy in the gardens.
Absolutely! The gardens are a perfect spot for a picnic, making it a lovely way to spend a few hours.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique moated tower from various angles, the charming gardens, and the panoramic views from the rooftop. The surrounding countryside also offers scenic backdrops.
Photography rules can vary. It's best to check on-site signage or ask a guide, but generally, exterior and garden photography is welcomed.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a picnic to make the visit more enjoyable for younger ones, as on-site food options are limited. The nearby Duck Decoy could also be an interesting addition to the day's adventure.
💑 Couples & History Buffs
History enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the guided tours, which offer in-depth insights into the tower's medieval past. The opportunity to climb the tower for views and explore the unique architecture makes for a fulfilling visit.
🚶 Day-Trippers
Combine your visit with the nearby Duck Decoy for a more comprehensive historical experience. Remember to check opening times meticulously as they are very limited.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
While the interior is limited to a few rooms, the focus is on the exterior architecture and the stories it holds. Visitors can appreciate the moated defenses and the strategic placement of the tower. The surrounding grounds, though not vast, are well-maintained and contribute to the overall historical ambiance.
For those interested in local history, the nearby Boarstall Duck Decoy is a complementary historical site that can enrich your visit. This unique structure, used for catching ducks, adds another layer to the area's historical significance.
Experiencing Boarstall Tower Today
The gardens are a peaceful retreat, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The opportunity to climb to the top of the tower is a must-do, offering rewarding panoramic views of the Buckinghamshire countryside.
While it's a delightful place for a short visit, some reviewers note that it's not an extensive attraction and might be less engaging for very young children. However, for adults and those with an interest in history or a desire for a relaxed outing, Boarstall Tower offers a unique and memorable experience.
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