
St Paul's Walden Bury
Discover the historic St Paul's Walden Bury, childhood home of the Queen Mother, with its stunning park-like gardens and royal heritage.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoming bulbs & rhododendrons

St Paul's Walden Bury
Best Time
Blossoming bulbs & rhododendrons

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the historic St Paul's Walden Bury, childhood home of the Queen Mother, with its stunning park-like gardens and royal heritage.
"A hidden gem with beautiful gardens and fascinating history, perfect for a peaceful escape."

Check Opening Dates First
This is a private home, so access is limited. Always check their schedule for garden tours or special events before visiting. :calendar:
Enjoy the Tranquility
The gardens are rarely crowded, offering a peaceful escape. Immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the remoteness. :earofrice:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Queen Mother's Childhood Home
The Bury
Explore the historic estate where Queen Elizabeth's mother spent her formative years. A glimpse into aristocratic life.

Magnificent Gardens
Gardens
Wander through park-like grounds featuring statues, temples, ancient trees, and vibrant plantings of bulbs, rhododendrons, and magnolias.

Intimate House Tours
The Bury House
Experience a special house tour offering insights into the Bowes-Lyon family history and the estate's aristocratic past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Garden Charm & Royal Roots
Limited Access, Special Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Opening Dates First
This is a private home, so access is limited. Always check their schedule for garden tours or special events before visiting. :calendar:
Enjoy the Tranquility
The gardens are rarely crowded, offering a peaceful escape. Immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the remoteness. :earofrice:
Tea & Cake Available
Indulge in delicious tea and cakes during your visit. A perfect treat after exploring the grounds. :tea:
Look for Special Events
Keep an eye out for theatre performances or concerts held in the beautiful grounds. :performing_arts:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Opening Dates First
This is a private home, so access is limited. Always check their schedule for garden tours or special events before visiting. :calendar:
Enjoy the Tranquility
The gardens are rarely crowded, offering a peaceful escape. Immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the remoteness. :earofrice:
Tea & Cake Available
Indulge in delicious tea and cakes during your visit. A perfect treat after exploring the grounds. :tea:
Look for Special Events
Keep an eye out for theatre performances or concerts held in the beautiful grounds. :performing_arts:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise St Paul's Walden Bury for its beautiful, park-like gardens featuring statues and ancient trees, and the unique opportunity for house tours revealing the Bowes-Lyon family history. It's considered a hidden gem, offering a tranquil experience away from crowds, though access is limited due to its private nature.
"Very fortunate to have a house tour! Gardens were beautiful"
Karen Evans
"Amazing history of the Bowes-Lyon family of the Queen Mother.
It is park-like with lots of statues and temple like buildings.
Plantings of bulbs and Rhododendrons and Magnolias as well as beautiful huge ancient trees."
Patrick Millar
"Small stately home. Interesting gardens. Still occupied by family members."
karen beaumont
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St Paul's Walden Bury is located near Hitchin in Hertfordshire. While public transport options are limited, driving is the most convenient way to reach the estate. Parking is usually available on-site during opening days.
Public transport to St Paul's Walden Bury can be challenging. The nearest train station is in Hitchin, from which you would likely need to arrange a taxi or local bus service, which may not run frequently to the estate itself.
When open to the public, parking is typically available on the grounds. It's advisable to check the specific event details for any parking restrictions or fees. :car:
Cycling is a pleasant option if you are local, as the surrounding countryside is beautiful. Ensure you have a secure way to lock your bike if you plan to visit. :bicycle:
Yes, St Paul's Walden Bury makes for a lovely day trip from London, especially when special events are scheduled. The drive is manageable, and the gardens offer a peaceful escape from the city. :city_sunrise:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are typically purchased in advance for specific open days or events. It's essential to check the official website or event listings for booking information and availability. :ticket:
Opening hours vary significantly as it's a private residence. Access is usually granted for specific garden open days, theatre performances, or other scheduled events. Always verify the exact times for your visit. :clock1:
No, St Paul's Walden Bury is not open year-round. It opens its gardens and offers tours on select dates, often in spring and summer, or for special events. :closed_umbrella:
It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for popular events like theatre performances or house tours. Some garden open days might allow on-the-door purchases, but this is not guaranteed. :shopping_bags:
Ticket pricing can vary depending on what is included. House tours may have a separate or combined ticket price with garden entry. Check the specific event details for clarity. :moneywithwings:
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can explore the beautiful park-like gardens with statues and ancient trees, enjoy a house tour to learn about the Bowes-Lyon family, and sometimes catch open-air theatre performances or concerts. :camerawithflash:
Yes, the gardens are described as park-like and magical, perfect for long, relaxing walks. The terrain is generally gentle, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature. :athletic_shoe:
Photography is generally permitted in the gardens for personal use. However, it's always wise to check for any specific restrictions, especially if you plan to use professional equipment or for commercial purposes. :iphone:
Absolutely! It's the childhood home of the Queen Mother, Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, and offers fascinating insights into the history of the Bowes-Lyon family and aristocratic life.
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as warm, inviting, beautiful, and magical. It's a place to enjoy remoteness, nature, and a sense of historical charm.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, during open days and events, there are often tea rooms offering delicious tea and cakes. It's a lovely way to enhance your visit. :cake:
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to check the specific event guidelines. Some venues allow picnics in designated areas, while others may not. :sandwich:
The nearest town with a good selection of restaurants and cafes is Hitchin. You can find various dining options there before or after your visit. :forkandknife:
Typically, you can expect tea, coffee, and a selection of cakes and light snacks. It's a charming addition to the garden experience. :cupwithstraw:
Alcohol is generally not a focus of the refreshments offered, which tend to be traditional tea room fare. For alcoholic beverages, you would need to visit nearby establishments. :wine_glass:
📸 📸 Photography
The gardens offer numerous picturesque spots, from the ancient trees and statues to the formal garden areas and any architectural features. Capture the natural beauty and historical elements. :camera:
Personal photography is usually allowed, but it's wise to confirm if there are any specific rules regarding drone usage or professional shoots. :noentrysign:
Many visitors capture the stunning garden landscapes, seasonal blooms, and the historic architecture. Wedding photography is also popular here.
Drone usage is often restricted at private estates and gardens due to privacy and safety concerns. It's essential to contact the venue directly to inquire about drone policies. :aerial_tramway:
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for landscape and portrait photography. Mid-morning can also be lovely with soft light. :sunriseovermountains:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the house tours might be less engaging for very young children, the gardens provide ample space for exploration and discovery. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenery, and check for any family-friendly events like outdoor theatre that might be scheduled during your visit. It's a chance for kids to experience a bit of history and nature in a relaxed environment.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider visiting during the spring for the vibrant floral displays or in autumn for the rich colors of the ancient trees. If an open-air theatre performance or concert is scheduled, it can add a unique and memorable element to a romantic outing. Enjoying tea and cake together amidst the serene surroundings is also a delightful way to spend an afternoon.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Nature Enthusiasts
Bring a book to enjoy under one of the ancient trees, or simply wander and appreciate the diverse plantings and historical features. The opportunity for an intimate house tour also provides a chance to connect with the estate's rich history on a personal level.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Royal Connection: Queen Mother's Legacy
Exploring the grounds, one can imagine the young Elizabeth playing amidst the ancient trees and formal gardens. The house itself, though privately owned and only occasionally open for tours, provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of the prominent Bowes-Lyon family. This royal heritage makes St Paul's Walden Bury a destination of interest for those fascinated by British monarchy and its history.
Gardens of Serenity and Beauty
During spring, the gardens are particularly vibrant with extensive plantings of bulbs, rhododendrons, and magnolias, creating a spectacular display of color. The formal garden areas provide a more manicured experience, contrasting with the wilder, natural beauty of the wider parkland. The remoteness and lack of crowds allow for an immersive experience, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing walk and quiet contemplation.
Experiencing St Paul's Walden Bury: Events and Performances
Music concerts, such as string quartet performances or salon concerts featuring classical works, also take place here, further enriching the visitor experience. These events are often highlighted by local musicians and ensembles, showcasing talent within the serene setting of the Bury. Attending an event provides a special opportunity to see St Paul's Walden Bury in a different light, often creating memorable evenings under the stars.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit