Stourhead
A breathtaking 18th-century landscape garden with classical temples, a serene lake, and an elegant Palladian mansion.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant colors, fewer crowds
Stourhead
Best Time
Vibrant colors, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking 18th-century landscape garden with classical temples, a serene lake, and an elegant Palladian mansion.
"Hands off one of the most beautiful NT site. The garden, the lake, the cave(grotto), the temple and lake side buildings and the main house are just unbelievable."
🚶♀️ Walk the Lake Circuit
Allow at least an hour to explore the full lake circuit and discover hidden follies. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the 'Pride & Prejudice' vibe
Visit the Temple of Apollo for iconic proposal scene vibes. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Palladian Bridge & Temple of Apollo
The heart of the landscape garden
The iconic Palladian Bridge and Temple of Apollo offer a romantic, picturesque scene, famously featured in 'Pride and Prejudice'.
+1
Stourhead House
Overlooking the gardens
Explore the elegant 18th-century house, filled with impressive art, furniture, and a stunning library.
The Grotto & Pantheon
Around the lake circuit
Discover hidden architectural gems like the Grotto and the Pantheon, adding a sense of discovery to your walk.
Autumn Foliage
Throughout the estate
Experience a vibrant spectacle of color as the leaves turn, transforming the landscape into a painter's dream.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for That Perfect Shot
Getting There: Car vs. Public Transport
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Lake Circuit
Allow at least an hour to explore the full lake circuit and discover hidden follies. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the 'Pride & Prejudice' vibe
Visit the Temple of Apollo for iconic proposal scene vibes.
🍂 Embrace Autumn Colors
Autumn offers stunning foliage, making it a prime time for photographers.
☕ Refuel Near the House
Most refreshments and facilities are located near the house, plan accordingly for your walk. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Lake Circuit
Allow at least an hour to explore the full lake circuit and discover hidden follies. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the 'Pride & Prejudice' vibe
Visit the Temple of Apollo for iconic proposal scene vibes.
🍂 Embrace Autumn Colors
Autumn offers stunning foliage, making it a prime time for photographers.
☕ Refuel Near the House
Most refreshments and facilities are located near the house, plan accordingly for your walk. :coffee:
🚗 Consider Traffic on A303
The A303 can experience traffic; plan your drive accordingly. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Stourhead for its breathtaking landscape gardens, particularly the iconic Palladian Bridge and Temple of Apollo, and the beautifully presented house. Many highlight the stunning autumn colors and the romantic atmosphere, making it a highly recommended National Trust site. Some visitors noted minor issues like algae in the lake or dry gardens during certain times, and the house interior being limited to downstairs, but overall, the experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"Second time visiting, but in the rain which was different altogether, in a good way. Lots of features to look at when walking the vast grounds and the house is interesting, full of beautiful books and furniture as well as paintings with hidden features. Definitely worth a visit."
Nadira Choudhury
"Came and visited with the family and enjoyed it very much, wasn't aware you can't walk over the bridge but all good! They're was so much to see and do especially for the kids with the park and activities. Enjoyed the walk around and seeing the sights. Will probably come back another time because I felt I couldn't take it all in 1 day!!"
Thomas lock
"We had a fabulous day out at Stourhead. The views and walks were amazing. The house was also so interesting! Unfortunately I can't rate it a 5 star this time as the lake had blue-green algae (lots of good warning signage though) and the flower beds and gardens were looking very dry and a bit unkempt. We will definitely visit again in Spring!"
Ali Rog
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The quickest route by car is via the M3 and A303, taking about 2.5 hours. However, the A303 can be prone to traffic. Alternatively, take a train from London Paddington to Gillingham Station (approx. 1 hour 40 mins) and then a taxi to Stourhead (10-15 mins).
Yes, it's possible. You can take a train to Gillingham Station and then a taxi. This requires some planning, but many visitors manage without a car.
Stourhead is located in Wiltshire, England. It's a National Trust property renowned for its landscape gardens.
There is a large car park available at Stourhead, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Yes, there are hotels and B&Bs near Stourhead, including options like Premier Inn and Travelodge, catering to different budgets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for Stourhead vary depending on whether you are a National Trust member. It's advisable to check the official National Trust website for the most current pricing and booking information.
Stourhead's opening hours can vary seasonally for the house, gardens, and estate. It's best to check the National Trust website for the specific opening times on the day of your planned visit.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
Entry to Stourhead typically requires a ticket or membership. National Trust members get free access. Non-members will need to purchase admission.
Discounts may be available for groups, families, or specific times. Checking the National Trust website or inquiring at the entrance can provide details on potential discounts.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Palladian Bridge, Temple of Apollo, the Grotto, the Pantheon, and the stunning landscape gardens. The house interior is also a highlight. +1
Yes, Stourhead offers activities for children, including exploring the house and gardens. However, supervision is essential around the lakes.
The walk around the lake circuit typically takes about an hour, but you can easily spend longer exploring the house and other areas.
Visitors are generally not allowed to walk over the Palladian Bridge itself, but it offers a fantastic viewpoint for photos.
Some sections of the paths can be steep and cobbled, which might be slippery in wet weather. The house has accessible areas, but some parts may have stairs.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hours, around sunrise and sunset, offer the most magical light for photography. Autumn also provides spectacular colors.
The Palladian Bridge and Temple of Apollo are iconic. Also, explore viewpoints around the lake and the house gardens for diverse shots.
Photography rules inside Stourhead House can vary. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in most areas, but it's best to check signage or ask staff.
Drone usage is typically restricted at National Trust properties like Stourhead to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the specific drone policy.
A versatile lens (e.g., 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the grandeur of the gardens. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions.
🎫 🍂 Autumn at Stourhead
Late October to early November is typically when Stourhead displays its most vibrant autumn foliage.
The landscape gardens transform with a spectacular array of reds, oranges, and yellows, creating a breathtaking scene.
The National Trust often organizes seasonal events. Check the Stourhead events calendar for any special autumn activities or guided walks.
Autumn is a popular time due to the foliage, so weekdays are recommended for a less crowded experience.
Wear layers and waterproofs, as autumn weather can be unpredictable. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the grounds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📚 Book Lovers & Film Buffs
+1 The entire estate evokes a sense of timeless romance and literary charm, making it a pilgrimage site for many. 📸 Photographers
The Palladian Bridge, Temple of Apollo, and the reflections in the lake offer endless composition opportunities. +1 Visit during the golden hours for the best light, and consider a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the landscape. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Pride and Prejudice' Connection
+1 Visitors often seek out this spot to recreate the iconic movie moment, adding a layer of literary and cinematic romance to their visit. The picturesque setting, with its classical architecture and tranquil waters, perfectly embodies the era and mood of Austen's beloved novel. Many visitors, especially fans of 'BookTok' and Jane Austen, are drawn to Stourhead specifically for this connection. The Palladian Bridge and the Temple of Apollo are the focal points for these 'Pride and Prejudice' pilgrimages.
The ability to stand in the very spot where such a pivotal romantic scene unfolded makes Stourhead a unique destination for literary enthusiasts and film buffs alike. It's a place where fiction and reality beautifully intertwine, offering a tangible link to a cherished story. Exploring the Stourhead Landscape Gardens
The walk around the lake is a highlight, taking approximately an hour, but it's easy to spend much longer soaking in the atmosphere.
However, each season offers its own charm, from the fresh greens of spring to the tranquil beauty of winter. The National Trust meticulously maintains the gardens, ensuring they remain a captivating experience year-round. A Visit to Stourhead House
While you can typically only see the downstairs rooms, these areas are exceptionally well-presented and offer a rich historical narrative. The architecture, the art, and the sheer volume of books in the library are particularly noteworthy.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit