Basing House
A magnificent 16th-century Tudor palace and Civil War stronghold, now a venue for events and a captivating historical site.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Lively atmosphere & events
Basing House
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & events
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent 16th-century Tudor palace and Civil War stronghold, now a venue for events and a captivating historical site.
"The venue is stunning, and we would absolutely recommend hosting an event here!"
🎯 Check Event Schedule
Verify public access days vs. private events to ensure your visit aligns with historical exploration .
🚗 Free Parking Available
Enjoy complimentary parking, making your visit hassle-free and budget-friendly .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Barn
South side of the River Loddon
A magnificent 16th-century Tudor barn, one of England's largest, steeped in history and involved in the Civil War siege.
16th Century Courtyard
Main courtyard
Experience the heart of Basing House, a historic courtyard perfect for events and reenactments, offering a glimpse into Tudor life.
Siege of Basing House Reenactments
Various locations within the grounds
Witness dramatic historical reenactments of the 17th-century siege, bringing the past to life with incredible detail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Event Venue or Historic Site?
Check Event Schedules
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Event Schedule
Verify public access days vs. private events to ensure your visit aligns with historical exploration.+1
🚗 Free Parking Available
Enjoy complimentary parking, making your visit hassle-free and budget-friendly.
🐕 Dog-Friendly Venue
Bring your furry friends along for the adventure; Basing House welcomes dogs.
🎶 Event Vibes
Experience the venue's vibrant side with music events and parties, especially in the loft and roof terrace.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Event Schedule
Verify public access days vs. private events to ensure your visit aligns with historical exploration.+1
🚗 Free Parking Available
Enjoy complimentary parking, making your visit hassle-free and budget-friendly.
🐕 Dog-Friendly Venue
Bring your furry friends along for the adventure; Basing House welcomes dogs.
🎶 Event Vibes
Experience the venue's vibrant side with music events and parties, especially in the loft and roof terrace.
☕ On-site Cafe
Grab a bite or a drink at the small cafe, perfect for a break during your exploration.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Basing House for its stunning historical venue, particularly the Great Barn, and its suitability for events like weddings and corporate functions. The staff are frequently commended for their helpfulness and professionalism, contributing to a smooth and enjoyable experience. While primarily a historical site, its vibrant event scene adds another layer of appeal.
"We had our wedding at Basing House at the weekend and had the BEST time! Kirstie and team were absolutely amazing, and they worked so hard on the night behind our very busy bar! The venue is stunning, and we would absolutely recommend hosting an event here! Thank you again! 🥰"
Erin Sygrove
"A great barn built 1535 on the south side of the River Loddon was part of The Grange, the centre of food production for Basing House. It was built in Tudor times with over 1 million bricks and is one the largest of it's kind in England, it was involved in a siege between 1643-45 during the ECW and suffered some damage from cannon fire. Today it is a visitor centre for the castle of Old Basing House. There is a small cafe and shop, I spent a while chatting to a lad called Conner while it was raining, he was very knowledgeable, respectful and a credit to the barn."
stephen mudie
"I had an outstanding day at Basing house, the staff were friendly and knowledgeable, especially our tour guide the price of entry is very cheap with free parking, there was also the Sealed Knot reenactment of the seige which was absolutely brilliant, the best day out I have had in a long time , highly recommended."
Danny King
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Basing House is located in Old Basing, near Basingstoke. Visitors often drive, and there is free parking available on-site. Public transport options might involve train to Basingstoke followed by a taxi or local bus service, though specific routes can vary.
Yes, Basing House offers free parking for visitors, which is a significant plus for those driving to the site.
While driving is common, you can reach Basingstoke by train. From there, you would likely need to arrange a taxi or check local bus routes to get to Old Basing. It's advisable to check current public transport schedules in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening times for Basing House can vary, especially as it also functions as an event venue. It's crucial to check the official website or social media for the most up-to-date opening hours for public access days, as these can be affected by private bookings.
Entry to Basing House is generally considered very cheap, with free parking also provided. Specific pricing details for general admission or special events should be confirmed on their official channels.
For general historical visits, booking in advance might not always be necessary, but it's always a good idea to check their website. For specific events like reenactments or music nights, advance booking is often recommended or required.
Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended. Visitors have praised the knowledgeable guides for enhancing their understanding of the site's history.
Absolutely! Basing House is a popular venue for weddings, corporate events, and parties, with spaces like the loft and roof terrace available for hire.+1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the impressive 16th-century Great Barn, the historic courtyard, and learn about the dramatic Siege of Basing House. The site offers a deep dive into Tudor and Civil War history.
Yes, Basing House frequently hosts historical reenactments, most notably of the Siege of Basing House, which are described as brilliant and a highlight for many visitors.
Yes, Basing House is a dog-friendly venue, making it a great place to visit with your pets.
There is a small cafe and shop on-site. Restroom facilities are also available for visitors.
Basing House hosts a variety of events, including weddings, corporate functions, music nights, and historical reenactments.+2
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Basing House has a small cafe on-site where you can purchase refreshments. For private events like weddings, self-catering options are available, offering flexibility for food arrangements.
While the cafe offers refreshments, for private events like weddings, self-catering is an option, giving you freedom to arrange your own food. For general visits, it's best to check their policy on picnics.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic architecture, especially the Great Barn and courtyard, provides a stunning backdrop for photography. It's a popular venue for weddings and events, highlighting its photogenic qualities.+1
The Great Barn's interior and exterior, the Tudor courtyard, and the surrounding grounds offer excellent photographic opportunities. The rustic charm and historical elements make for memorable shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Visiting during a reenactment can be particularly exciting, offering a visual and auditory spectacle of the past. Even on regular days, the sheer scale of the Great Barn and the stories of the siege can spark imagination. The site's dog-friendly policy also means the whole family, including furry members, can enjoy the visit.
💍 Couples & Wedding Planners
The team at Basing House, managed by Hampshire Cultural Trust, is frequently praised for their exceptional support and professionalism, ensuring that wedding days run smoothly from planning to execution.
🎶 Music & Event Enthusiasts
+3 From jungle and drum & bass to house music, there's a diverse range of genres on offer.These events often foster a strong sense of community and 'family energy,' creating an inclusive and exciting atmosphere.
+1 Visitors can expect high-energy vibes and a chance to dance the night away in a distinctive urban setting. Checking their social media or event listings is key to catching the next big party.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Basing House
The house's strategic importance led to it becoming a key Royalist stronghold during the Civil War. It endured two lengthy sieges by Parliamentarian forces between 1643 and 1645. The defenders, under the command of the Marquess of Winchester, put up a fierce resistance, but the house ultimately fell and was largely destroyed. Today, what remains, particularly the Great Barn, stands as a testament to its grand past and the turbulent events it witnessed.
Visitors can explore the remnants and learn about this fascinating period through exhibits and guided tours. The site offers a tangible connection to England's past, from the opulence of the Tudor era to the conflict of the Civil War. The historical significance of Basing House makes it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts.
Basing House as an Event Venue
+1Couples often choose Basing House for its rustic barn aesthetic and the freedom it offers, such as self-catering options, which allows for personalized wedding planning.
+1 to serene wellness retreats, underscores its versatility.When planning an event, it's essential to coordinate with the Basing House team, who are known for their helpfulness and support throughout the process.
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