Top 7 Historical Properties & Gardens in Wiltshire
Widbrook Grange is more than just a farmhouse hotel; it offers access to a fascinating world of history. Within 45 minutes, you can reach some of England’s most notable historical sites. Let’s explore some of the most captivating places to visit in the area.
Just 20 minutes away is Lacock. A picturesque village owned by the National Trust with many well-preserved characterful buildings dating from the 13th century. There's a medieval cloistered abbey converted into a fine country house with a botanic garden and Victorian woodland. Lacock Abbey – where the first-ever photo negative was created in 1835 – also houses the fascinating Fox Talbot Museum of Photography. Fun fact: Lacock has been used as a location in many films, including Harry Potter, Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Moll Flanders, Cranford, and The Other Boleyn Girl.
About 35 minutes from Widbrook Grange, you’ll find Stourhead. One of the world’s finest landscape gardens owned by the National Trust. There is an absolutely beautiful lakeside walk with stunning vistas towards ornate classical temples and exotic trees. Stourhead also has a Palladian mansion with Chippendale furniture, fine paintings, and a Regency library. The wider estate has Iron Age hill forts and the 50m high King Alfred’s Tower.
A short 30-minute drive takes you to Bowood House, an elegant Robert Adam-designed stately home filled with unique treasures, including a fine collection of paintings, sculptures, tapestries, porcelain, jewelry, and costumes. It also houses the laboratory where oxygen was discovered. The parkland with its lake, cascade, temple, grotto, and arboretum was designed by Capability Brown. For children, there is an adventure playground and soft play palace.
Only 25 minutes away, Dyrham Park is a grand baroque mansion set in expansive parkland. This grand baroque mansion is set amidst beautiful rolling parkland owned by the National Trust. It houses a magnificent collection of 17th-century Dutch paintings, pottery, and furniture. You can also see Victorian domestic quarters for an insight into the lives of servants. There are also lovely walks around the elegant formal gardens, a deer park, woodland, and lakes.
Located just 5 minutes from the hotel, Farleigh Hungerford Castle is a must-see for those interested in medieval history. This 14th-century castle, owned by English Heritage, has many unique features and is set in a picturesque valley. It has a largely intact gatehouse, a curtain wall, and substantial ruined towers. There's also a well-preserved 14th-century chapel featuring rare medieval wall paintings and stained glass windows. Underneath the chapel lies a burial vault housing a vast collection of human-shaped lead coffins.
Only 5 minutes from Widbrook Grange, Westwood Manor is a small, beautifully preserved 15th-century manor house. Inside, visitors can admire a collection of period furniture and tapestries. The topiary garden outside offers a peaceful retreat.
Just 10 minutes away is Iford Manor Estate, home to an award-winning garden inspired by Italian design. With its terraced hillsides, statues, and colonnades, the garden is a tranquil and romantic place to explore. Iford Manor also hosts opera and jazz events during the summer!
Begin Your Adventure at Widbrook Grange
After a day spent exploring Wiltshire’s historical sites, Widbrook Grange provides the perfect place to relax. Our comfortable rooms and welcoming cottages offer a peaceful retreat, and our restaurant serves delicious, locally sourced meals. Our team is always available to help with planning your excursions, offering advice and suggestions for the best experiences in the area.
Book your stay at Widbrook Grange today and discover the historical treasures of Wiltshire. Whether you’re interested in medieval castles, grand estates, or hidden gems, the adventure starts here.