Stourhead is a National Trust estate near Warminster in Wiltshire, built around a lake that reflects classical temples, grottoes and tall trees. The landscape garden opened in the 1740s, and the Palladian house beside it holds paintings, Chippendale furniture and a Regency library. Walk the lake path to see the garden buildings up close, then go inside the house. The view changes with the seasons, from spring bulbs to autumn colour, and a Christmas lights trail draws visitors in winter.
The estate and its history
Stourhead covers 1,072 hectares at the source of the River Stour, about 4 km northwest of Mere. The landscape garden opened in the 1740s, and a magazine of the day described it as a living work of art.
The Hoare family built the Palladian house in the 1720s and used their banking business to buy the estate. The family still runs an independent bank, and the house remains a record of their collecting over several generations.
The lake and its buildings
The lake sits at the centre of the garden, and the walk around it passes most of the buildings. Miniature versions of the Temple of Apollo and the Pantheon stand by the water. Other stops include a Gothic Cottage, a grotto with fountains, Gothic ruins and a Palladian bridge. One of the follies can be climbed.
A walk on the wider estate climbs to King Alfred's Tower, so the trail is worth taking if you want a longer outing. The garden was designed in the 18th century. The art historian Ernst Gombrich suggested that it bears the mark of Claude Lorrain, a French painter who worked in Italy, and that its views follow the landscapes of 17th-century painters.
Inside Stourhead House
The entrance hall holds a large group of Hoare family portraits. The Regency library, designed by Colt Hoare in 1792, has paintings of classical scenes and furniture by Chippendale the Younger.
Chippendale furniture and Wedgwood vases fill the rooms. A cabinet known as the Pope's cabinet, made of semi-precious stones, marble and wood, is one of the pieces to look for. The house also has a gallery with a large number of old master paintings. Guides in the rooms know the history of the objects and can answer questions.
Seasons in the grounds
Snowdrops and daffodils come first in early spring, followed by crocuses, bluebells and rhododendrons. Autumn colour is strong around the lake, and the trees hold their colour well into the season.
The Christmas lights trail is the main winter draw. Grass snakes live in the grounds, and crayfish live in the lake.
Food, facilities and access
A large restaurant and café, a shop and a small garden centre are on site. The café serves good food, and you can also picnic by the lake. The pub The Spread Eagle Inn is known for its Sunday roast, which makes a good meal after a walk.
The entrance, restrooms and parking are wheelchair accessible. There are water bowls for dogs at the reception area. Dogs are welcome in the landscape garden, and the loop around it takes about 2 hours. The rules for dogs change through the year, so check the National Trust website before you bring one.
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Is there an entry fee?
Yes, entry is charged. National Trust membership can reduce the cost if you plan several visits.
Do I need to book tickets?
Booking tickets in advance is recommended for Stourhead.
How long do you need?
Plan 2 to 3 hours. The lake loop takes around 2 hours on its own, and the house adds time.
Is Stourhead accessible?
The entrance, restrooms and parking are wheelchair accessible.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are welcome in the landscape garden, but the rules change by season and time of day. Check the National Trust website before you go.
