Waddesdon Manor is a magnificent Victorian country house located in the village of Waddesdon in Buckinghamshire, England. Built in the late 19th century, it was the home of the influential Rothschild family for over a century. It is now owned and managed by the National Trust and is open to the public for visits and tours.
History of Waddesdon Manor
Waddesdon Manor was built in 1874 by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild, a member of the influential Rothschild banking family. The manor was designed to look like a 16th-century French chateau, with its grand façade and lavish interiors. The house was filled with art and antiques collected from all over Europe, and the grounds were landscaped in the style of an English country garden.
The manor was the Rothschild family’s weekend retreat for many years and was inherited by Baron Ferdinand’s niece, Alice de Rothschild, in 1898. When Alice died in 1922, the manor was bequeathed to the National Trust.
Attractions at Waddesdon Manor
Waddesdon Manor is a must-see for visitors to Buckinghamshire. The house is a stunning example of Victorian architecture and is filled with art and antiques from all over Europe. The grounds are also a delight, with their landscaped gardens and lawns.
- The Manor House: An impressive example of Victorian architecture, the Manor House is filled with art and antiques from all over Europe.
- The Gardens: The grounds of the manor are landscaped in the style of an English country garden, with manicured lawns, flower beds, and a maze.
- The Aviary: The aviary is home to a variety of exotic birds, including parrots, toucans, and macaws.
- The Dairy: The Dairy is a beautiful building in the grounds of the manor, decorated with stained glass and filled with sculptures.
- The Stables: The stables are home to a collection of carriages and horses, as well as a museum dedicated to the Rothschild family.
What to Expect on a Visit
Visitors to Waddesdon Manor can expect a fascinating experience. The house is open to the public for tours, and the grounds are open for self-guided exploration. There are also a variety of activities and events held throughout the year.
Tours of the house are available, and visitors can explore the house at their own pace. There are also guided tours of the grounds and the aviary.
The grounds are open to the public for self-guided exploration. Visitors can explore the gardens, the aviary, and the stables. There are also a variety of activities and events held throughout the year, from open-air theatre performances to special workshops.
Admission and Tours
Admission to the Manor House and the grounds is free for National Trust members. Non-members can purchase tickets for the house and grounds separately. Tickets for the house include a guided tour. Tickets for the grounds include access to the gardens, aviary, and stables.
Guided tours of the house and grounds are available for a fee. Tours of the house are available throughout the day, and tours of the grounds are available in the afternoon.
Tips for Tourists
- Book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds.
- Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the manor and its grounds.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the gardens.
Practical Information
Waddesdon Manor is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The house is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and the grounds are closed on Wednesdays.
The manor is located in the village of Waddesdon in Buckinghamshire, England. The nearest train station is Aylesbury, which is a 20-minute drive away. There is also a car park on-site.
Waddesdon Manor is a must-see for visitors to Buckinghamshire. With its grand façade, lush gardens, and fascinating history, it is an experience not to be missed.
