Set deep beyond the edge of the forest, past the rolling lawns is Longleat House, one Britain’s most beautiful and stately homes and among the best examples of High Elizabethan architecture. The first private residence to open its enormous doors to the public, Longleat is located near the towns of Warminster in Wiltshire and Frome in Somerset. Built by Sir John Thynne, mainly designed by Robert Smythson, in 1580, Longleat recalls countless storybooks and postcards. It is now home to the 7th Marquess of Bath, a direct descendant of Sir John Thynne, who is an artist, mural painter, and sponsor to many aspiring artists.
Longleat House is set within 900 acres (400 hectares) of magnificent Capability Brown landscaped parkland. A further 8,000 acres (3,200 hectares) of woodland, lakes, and farmland surround the estate! In the late 13th Century, a priory belonging to the Black Canons of the Order of St Augustine occupied the site where Longleat House now stands.
Heater photo © Steve – jetbluestone
As you enter the property during spring, the road is bordered by a most beautiful garden of rhododendrons blooming in every color. There are many different activities to partake in, including the House tour, Longleat Hedge Maze, the Safari Animal park, Safari Boat ride, Longleat Railway, Grounds & Garden Walks. The Library is also quite expansive, where books range from early medieval manuscripts to 19th and 20th-century children’s tales- much like air Longleat itself!
LONGLEAT HOUSE OPEN HOURS:
10:00 – 17:00 Monday – Thursday
10:00 – 17:30 Friday – Sunday & Bank Holidays
Longleat
(44) 0 198 – 584 5420
(44) 0 198 – 584 4400
Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW England
www.longleat.co.uk
14th February- 22nd February, Open daily
28th February- 29th March, Weekends only
4th April – 1st November, Open daily
SAFARI OPEN HOURS:
10:00 – 16:00 Monday – Thursday
10:00 – 17:00 Friday – Sunday & Bank Holidays
The pictures avr very beautiful.