5 minute read
Discover Bowood House & Gardens on the Great West Way
Offering a timeless glimpse into England's historic past, Bowood House on the Great West Way is a magnificent stately home renowned for its rich history, elegant interiors and spectacular gardens
In the heart of the rolling Wiltshire countryside on the Great West Way, 270 year-old Bowood House & Gardens is one of England’s most treasured estates. This year, this magnificent home marks its milestone 50th anniversary of welcoming the public and celebrates decades of history, leisure and world-class hospitality.
About Bowood House & Gardens
The beautiful Georgian house sits in 2,000 acres of Lancelot 'Capability' Brown-designed parkland, which includes a picturesque lake and exceptional gardens. Often used as filming location for period dramas such as Downton Abbey and Sanditon, Bowood has been home to the Lansdowne family since 1754. The estate is owned and managed by Lord Kerry and his father, Lord Lansdowne, who are the 10th and 11th generation custodians of Bowood. From its breathtaking grounds to its state of the art spa and championship golf course, there is something of interest for every visitor. Spend the day exploring the gardens and arboretum or extend your stay with a short break at the charming boutique hotel. Bowood House & Gardens is also Grade I listed on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens.
Opening the Walled Garden for the first time
As part of the estate’s celebrations to mark this milestone in its history, Bowood will open its Walled Garden to the public for the first time. This special garden has remained private to the Lansdowne family for the past 270 years. Originally producing food and cut flowers for the house, the garden now supplies Bowood Hotel and other catering outlets but has not been accessible to the general public before now, other than on privately booked tours. The Walled Garden showcases striking double borders planted in soft hues of white, cream and all shades of green (particularly lime green), reflecting the design of the famous chintz fabric found inside Bowood House.
The hotel at Bowood
One of the finest luxury hotels in Wiltshire, Bowood Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort at the heart of the estate is ideally situated on the Great West Way route, just off the M4. Each of the 43 beautifully decorated rooms and suites offer spacious bathrooms and modern amenities. This is a unique chance to stay within the grounds of this elegant and historic estate. Dine in style at the stunning Shelburne Restaurant or relax over drinks in the duel lounge bar with its open fire.
A historic gem
Built in the 18th century, this Georgian masterpiece holds stories of aristocracy, art and scientific discovery – most notably, the laboratory where Dr. Joseph Priestley first discovered oxygen in 1774. Today, visitors can explore opulent interiors adorned with priceless paintings, antiques and a library filled with historical treasures. The family library has many thousands of books and the laboratory, which offers a glimpse into the history of science, is fascinating.
The Orangery now showcases the unique Lansdowne collection of art. The sculpture gallery – which used to be a menagerie for wild animals including a leopard and orangutan – now houses Bowood’s impressive sculpture collection. The exhibition rooms display a fascinating array of family treasures, including Napoleon's death mask and Queen Victoria's wedding chair.
A garden wonderland for every season
Bowood’s spectacular gardens are a masterpiece. Visit in spring when thousands of tulips and rhododendrons burst into colour, or in summer when the Italian-inspired terraces are in full bloom. The Woodland Garden features rare plants and exotic species, and there is also a 300-year-old arboretum with a tree collection of over 360 species. For families, the adventure playground offers hours of fun for children of all ages. It was inspired by Lord Lansdowne’s own childhood memories of playing on an old pirate ship and the playground – one of the UK's largest – and features a full size pirate ship, zip lines and aerial rope walks.
Luxury, leisure and championship golf
Beyond the house and gardens, Bowood is home to a premier golfing experience at the resort’s PGA championship golf course. One of the finest on the Great West Way, it offers an 18-hole challenge set in the stunning Wiltshire countryside.
After a day on the greens the Bowood Spa is the perfect place to unwind. Indulge in a treatment, take a dip in the infinity pool or simply relax in the steam room.
A year of celebration and special events
To mark its 50th anniversary, Bowood has planned an exciting calendar of events. Look forward to exclusive guided tours, themed garden festivals and historical exhibitions showcasing the estate’s rich past. Special dining experiences, afternoon teas and summer soirées are also planned. For golf enthusiasts, exclusive tournaments and coaching sessions with top PGA professionals are set to make this a landmark year. This milestone year is the perfect time to discover the magic of Bowood and create new memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this golden 50th anniversary celebration.
Bowood House opening for 2025
The House & Gardens attract more than 120,000 visitors every year, and many more visitors attend special events here. Bowood opens on 1 April 2025. Day tickets are available from £17 for one adult, with concessions available for children, seniors and young adults. Season tickets are also available.
Step into the enchanting ages of the past at our magnificent stately homes and uncover a treasure trove of grand houses and beautifully landscaped gardens; greatwestway.co.uk
