Althorp House
Althorp House: A historic Spencer family estate showcasing art, grand interiors, and the serene resting place of Princess Diana.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Althorp House
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Althorp House: A historic Spencer family estate showcasing art, grand interiors, and the serene resting place of Princess Diana.
"A privilege to see Diana's resting place, which was so peaceful."
🚗 Plan Your Transport
Public transport is limited. Consider a car rental or pre-booked taxi for easier access to Althorp House.
📸 Photography Restrictions
Photography is not allowed inside the house, so soak in the experience and memories.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand State Rooms
Inside Althorp House
Explore opulent rooms filled with an incredible art collection, precious furniture, and historical artifacts.
Diana's Resting Place
Round Oval Lake Island
A poignant and moving memorial to Princess Diana, offering a serene and reflective experience.
The Walled Garden
Althorp Estate Grounds
Wander through beautifully restored 18th-century walled gardens, offering stunning views and tranquility.
The Stable Yard Cafe & Gift Shop
Former Stables
Enjoy a coffee and snack in a charming setting, and browse for unique souvenirs and gifts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Navigating to Althorp Estate
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Plan Your Transport
Public transport is limited. Consider a car rental or pre-booked taxi for easier access to Althorp House.
📸 Photography Restrictions
Photography is not allowed inside the house, so soak in the experience and memories.
☕ Relax at the Cafe
The Stable Yard Cafe offers lovely coffee, cakes, and light lunches amidst beautiful surroundings.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss a peaceful walk around the lake and through the stunning gardens.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Plan Your Transport
Public transport is limited. Consider a car rental or pre-booked taxi for easier access to Althorp House.
📸 Photography Restrictions
Photography is not allowed inside the house, so soak in the experience and memories.
☕ Relax at the Cafe
The Stable Yard Cafe offers lovely coffee, cakes, and light lunches amidst beautiful surroundings.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss a peaceful walk around the lake and through the stunning gardens.
👑 Meet the Earl (if lucky!)
You might even have a chance to meet Earl Spencer during your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Althorp House for its magnificent art collection, beautifully maintained grounds, and the deeply moving memorial to Princess Diana. The friendly and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience, making it a truly special day out. While the cafe and gift shop are considered adequate, the historical richness and serene atmosphere are the standout features.
"I had a fabulous time here. Plenty of parking. The house and the garden are beautiful and peaceful. The gift shop and the cafe are okay. You can but various cakes, cold sandwiches and hot soup. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable."
Kriszti Richards
"I thoroughly recommend a visit to Althorp House. The grounds are very peaceful and tranquil with beautiful mature trees. You enter through the former stables now transformed into a cafe and gift shop; a lovely place for a coffee and snack. The house itself is magnificent, not overly ostentatious with an amazing art collection. The tour through the house is easily navigated and well laid out giving you a glimpse into the long history of the Spencer family. Not to be missed is a walk around the lake with the island where the dearly loved Princess Diana was laid to rest. It is very poignant and moving; a most fitting final rest place.
And if you're lucky you may get a chance to meet Earl Spencer himself as I did at a book signing in the gift shop or wondering round the grounds. All in all ur was a great day out."
Barbara Curtis
"Such a beautiful place to visit. All of the staff were polite & welcoming. A privilege to see Diana's resting place, which was so peaceful."
Sarah Turnham
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Birmingham, you can take a train to Northampton. From Northampton, you'll likely need a taxi or pre-booked car service to reach Althorp House, as public transport directly to the estate is limited.
Uber availability can be inconsistent in the rural area around Althorp House. It's advisable to pre-book a taxi or have your own transportation arranged for your return journey.
Yes, driving is a common way to visit Althorp House. There is ample parking available on-site. Be aware that some roads leading to the estate can be narrow.
Althorp House typically opens for the season from April to August, with specific opening days and times varying. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on Althorp House opening times.
Althorp House is located in Northamptonshire, which is roughly a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from London, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for Althorp House can vary, but typically range around £27 for adults. It's recommended to check the official Althorp House website for current pricing and to book Althorp House tickets in advance.
While not always mandatory, booking Althorp House tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season or for special events, to guarantee your entry and avoid disappointment.
Yes, Althorp House offers tours, and the house is well laid out for self-guided exploration. Room guides are often available to provide fascinating insights into the history and art.
Your Althorp House tickets typically grant you access to the State Rooms, the gardens, and the exhibition areas. The visit to Diana's resting place is also included.
While the gift shop is a great place to visit, it's best to purchase your Althorp House tickets online in advance or at the main entrance upon arrival, subject to availability.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Althorp Estate features the magnificent Althorp House with its art collection, beautiful gardens, and the serene island where Princess Diana is buried. 
Absolutely! Althorp House makes for a wonderful day trip, offering a blend of history, art, and peaceful natural beauty. You can easily spend several hours exploring the house and grounds.
There is no strict dress code for visiting Althorp House. Smart casual attire is generally appropriate. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the extensive grounds.
Althorp House occasionally hosts special events, including exhibitions, talks, and seasonal celebrations like Halloween parties. Check their website for Althorp House events.
While the grounds are generally accessible, some areas within the historic house may present challenges for visitors with significant mobility issues. It's advisable to contact Althorp House directly for specific accessibility information.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Stable Yard Cafe at Althorp House offers a selection of cakes, sandwiches, and hot soup. It's a pleasant spot for a break during your visit.
While there isn't a dedicated picnic area, visitors can often find suitable spots on the grounds to enjoy a packed lunch. Please be mindful of the estate's beauty and dispose of any waste properly.
Bringing your own food for a picnic on the grounds is generally acceptable, but consuming it inside the house or in designated dining areas of the cafe is not permitted.
The cafe offers a range of light meals, including cold sandwiches, hot soup, and a variety of cakes and pastries, along with hot and cold beverages.
The nearest town with a wider selection of restaurants is Northampton. You'll find various dining options there, from traditional pubs to international cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside Althorp House to protect the priceless art and artifacts.
Yes, the Althorp Estate offers numerous stunning photo opportunities, especially in the gardens, around the lake, and the exterior of the house itself.
The view from the top of the hill in front of the house, the walled garden gates, and the serene island on the lake are particularly picturesque.
Drone usage is typically restricted on private estates like Althorp House due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to check with the estate management before flying any drones.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for exterior shots of Althorp House and its grounds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the outdoor elements: the gardens, the lake, and the open spaces. The Stable Yard Cafe offers a relaxed environment for a family break. For younger children, the historical aspect might be less engaging than the freedom to explore the vast estate. Ensure comfortable footwear for everyone, as there will be a lot of walking involved.
🏛️ History Buffs
+1Delve into the Spencer family's lineage, their influence on British society, and the architectural evolution of the house. The exhibition dedicated to Diana, Princess of Wales, also offers a significant historical perspective on a pivotal figure of the 20th century. Engaging with the room guides or potentially meeting Earl Spencer can provide even deeper historical context.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
The peaceful atmosphere of the estate, particularly around Diana's memorial island, can offer a moment of shared reflection. The grandeur of the house combined with the natural beauty of the grounds creates an ambiance of timeless elegance, perfect for couples seeking a refined and culturally enriching outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spencer Family Legacy at Althorp
+1Visitors often have the unique opportunity to encounter members of the Spencer family, such as Earl Spencer himself, who has been known to engage with guests, share insights, or even host book signings. This personal connection adds an extraordinary layer to the Althorp experience, transforming it from a mere visit to a historical site into a glimpse into a living legacy. The presence of the family underscores the fact that Althorp is not just a museum, but a cherished and actively maintained family residence.
The estate itself is vast, encompassing 13,000 acres of parkland, lakes, and woodlands. This expansive landscape has been carefully curated over centuries, reflecting changing horticultural and aesthetic tastes. The ongoing restoration of the 18th-century walled garden is a testament to the family's commitment to preserving and enhancing this historic estate for future generations.
A Visit to Remember: Diana, Princess of Wales
The exhibition dedicated to Diana within Althorp House provides a more intimate look at her life, showcasing personal items, photographs, and insights into her journey. This exhibition allows visitors to connect with her on a more personal level, understanding her impact beyond her royal title. The combination of the serene burial site and the informative exhibition creates a comprehensive and emotional experience for those who wish to pay their respects and learn more about her life.
Lady Karen Spencer, Diana's sister-in-law, has been instrumental in preserving and sharing the story of Althorp and its connection to Diana. She often hosts events and shares personal anecdotes, further enriching the visitor's understanding of the Spencer family and Diana's place within it. Her involvement ensures that the legacy of Princess Diana is honored with sensitivity and grace at Althorp.
+1Exploring the Grounds and Gardens
The parkland surrounding the house is dotted with ancient trees and offers picturesque views. A walk around the Round Oval lake is a must-do, not only for its natural beauty but also for the poignant memorial to Princess Diana situated on its island. The tranquility of the lake and its surroundings makes it a perfect spot for quiet contemplation.
Even the approach to Althorp House can be scenic, with tree-lined avenues and rolling countryside. While some roads might be a bit tight, the journey itself is part of the experience of reaching this grand estate. The Stable Yard, once home to the estate's horses, now houses a charming cafe and gift shop, providing a pleasant place to rest and refuel after exploring the outdoors.
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