The top cities between Ventnor and Liverpool are Birmingham, Manchester, Portsmouth, Chester, Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, New Forest National Park Hampshire, Milton Keynes, Stoke-on-Trent, and Telford. Birmingham is the most popular city on the route. It's 4 hours from Ventnor and 2 hours from Liverpool.
Portsmouth, a city located on the south coast of England, is widely known for its naval base and rich maritime history. The city features Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, an interactive museum that houses numerous historical naval vessels including HMS Victory where Nelson died during the Battle of Trafalgar. Another must-visit attraction in Portsmouth is the dockyard museum which conserves the Tudor ship Mary Rose.
62% as popular as Birmingham
5 minutes off the main route, 22% of way to Liverpool
The New Forest National Park is a protected area in Hampshire, southern England, covering 566 square kilometers. The park is home to many different animals and birds not often found in the UK. The national park has been enforced by officials known as verderers for well over 1,000 years, and is still in place today.
🐴please remember to drive slow around bends, there are horses everywhere, and some go on the road!🐴
I've always loved this place!
I went here to look for the famous blubelle fields, but unfortunately was quite unsuccessful. However, instead I found a lovely little hotel and restaurant called "the pig". I Highly recommend a visit there. A very wonderful place and a good stop for some lemonade and a rest.
Isabelle Valentine — Google review
Beautiful big National Park! Plenty of places to explore, beautiful paths to hike with quite a few car parks to allow you to explore different areas. There are quite a lot of wild horses roaming around the National Park, it won't be difficult to find them! They will come rather close to your car if you allow them to be in peace.
It's good that there aren't many places to stay and eat, which means that the area is quiet.
Jose Oliveira — Google review
This was booked as a birthday surprise. Absolutely amazing place, fabulous lodge everything top range and beautifully equiped. The shops, restaurant and pub all set in the ambience of the New Forest, tranquil and peaceful. Would recommend very highly.
Sheila Brown — Google review
Parked at Kingswood Oak to explore the forest. There were lovely wide tracks. We had our 3yr old with us who was happy to walk, but the terrain would have been suitable for a robust buggy. Beautiful scenery and it was quiet. When we got back the carpark had overflowed onto the road, so probably best to get there early.
Georgie M — Google review
Went round the outer part and ended up knee deep in mud. Was so much fun. Following day we went into the forest for a much dryer walk
Suzie Daniels — Google review
The New Forest National Park is a wonderful place. Many different types of trees and length/ location of walks. There are car parks dotted throughout the park (not all have public toilets, so check before you travel) and many of the larger car parks during the summer are visited by ice cream vans.
We must keep our New Forest clean and safe for generations for years to come, so please take your rubbish with you, don't pet the pony's and enjoy the space.
Hannah Young — Google review
Beautiful location, perfect scenery, plenty of wild horses, cute little towns, plenty of day camping sites, what more can I say? It’s just gorgeous! Absolutely love visiting New Forest.
Alfred Aquino — Google review
Wonderful wonderful wonderful. A beautiful destination with a great atmosphere. Miles of brilliant walking and tons of wildlife. Attractions galore. Numerous pubs and restaurants. A beautiful place one of Britain's finest national parks. Beautiful streams and rivers and picturesque towns and villages
Mark Mahoney — Google review
An incredibly diverse national park with lots of different car parks, some with toilets. Lots of walks or cycling routes. And of course, the New Forest ponies to observe in a natural habitat for them
Michaela Nobbs — Google review
I had an incredible visit to the New Forest National Park, and it's safe to say that we'd love to come back here again. The natural beauty of this place is simply enchanting. During our recent trip, we decided to explore some of the charming little towns that dot the landscape.
Beaulieu left us awe-struck with its picturesque setting and the delightful sight of donkeys leisurely strolling around the village. Milford on Sea offered us amazing sea walks, with the crashing waves creating a soothing ambiance. And Lyndhurst was an absolute gem; we embarked on a captivating town walk, discovering an old church that seemed to have a story around every corner. To top it off, we enjoyed a delectable cup of coffee at the New Forest Coffee Shop, making our visit even more memorable.
The New Forest National Park offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and quaint, historic towns, making it a destination that leaves you yearning for more. We're already looking forward to our next adventure in this enchanting place.
Ivan Bilic — Google review
As always a great place to reconnect with Nature. Popular areas can get busy at weekends/holiday times. Lots of different areas to walk.
Natalie Edwards — Google review
A wonderful place to visit at any time of year. The scenery will always be different according to the season and if you go at quiet times can be very peaceful. I'm normally there early in the morning sometimes just me it seems. As I live quite close I don't use it as a holiday destination, but there are lots of things to do and best start is the visitor centre at Lyndhurst for all the info.
Steve U — Google review
Easy motorway access and then smaller roads. Huge park for outdoor rising cycling. Walking, etc . Lots to see and do. Suggest to preplan a list and route and book accomodation centrally to make the most of the area. Food and drink easily available .
Anne G — Google review
Lovely place. Went down a lane restricted to 40mph and also equipped cattle grids. Amazing scenery and wild horses. Saw some goals also.
I wish the lane was restricted to a lower speed as when I was here, some drivers abused the speed and beeped their horns to shift the horses.
AJC 04 — Google review
This destination is perfect for families with its stunning natural scenery, free-roaming wildlife, and wonderful landscape. It's a true paradise for nature lovers, offering a glimpse into the beauty of the outdoors. Whether you're looking for adventure or just relaxation, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags and escape to this breathtaking destination where memories are made and experiences are never forgotten.
Kinga Gurba — Google review
It is a very beautiful area. Lots of birds and an SSSI and nature reserve, too. It's lovely for a walk along the shoreline, although beware that there are mud flats and you can walk suddenly be up to your knees in mud. My dog had a wonderful time there.
Zsuzsa Bella — Google review
The New Forest National Park is one of the most beautiful parts of England I have visited. The vast and varied trees and open plains make every visit unique. Amazing sunrise's and beautiful subsets. With places suitable all year round and for any fitness levels it really has something for everyone. Really looking forward to coming again soon, really puts my area of the country to shame.
Chris B — Google review
Such a lovely part of the UK. Always enjoy visiting the new forest due to the abundance of wildlife. We were lucky to see loads of ponies, donkeys, cows including Highland cattle and pigs during our recent visit. Loads of well maintained free car parks, many with public toilets. Variety of walks but the fact you can simply wander freely means you can explore without seeing another soul. Lovely villages scattered throughout the park. It is a fabulous place to visit and highly recommended.
Susanne Knowles — Google review
Lovely walk, make sure you wear suitable footwear as wet and muddy in place.
Cathy Richards — Google review
Great open areas for walking, there was also ponies grazing. The trees were wonderful spent a lot of time just looking up into the canopy.
Frank Edwards — Google review
This is my happy place. Beautiful place to visit. Please drive carefully. Can get very busy in school holidays though.
Lozza — Google review
Beautiful area of the country to visit. We spent 6 days in Holmsley and travelled around the area. Some really lovely walks and bike rides. It's definitely a place to re-connect with the family etc whilst out walking with nature. Loads of great bits to see and do and a lot of it is free.
Would definitely go again as the whole area is setup for walkers and cyclists.
Danny Bromfield — Google review
31% as popular as Birmingham
12 minutes off the main route, 30% of way to Liverpool
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Situated in central southern England, Oxford is a city steeped in history and culture, with its renowned university established over 800 years ago. Known as the 'City of Dreaming Spires' due to the stunning architecture of its 38 colleges, Oxford attracts visitors from all over the world. The city's medieval center boasts several notable landmarks such as Carfax Tower and the Botanic Garden on River Cherwell.
52% as popular as Birmingham
2 minutes off the main route, 48% of way to Liverpool
Milton Keynes, the largest settlement in Buckinghamshire, England, is located about 50 miles north-west of London. With a population of 264,349 in its urban area as of the 2021 Census, it offers a variety of dining options including Harvester Eastlake and a new Route 66 American diner in the city center. These establishments serve fresh and flavorful grills, salads, and American cuisine to cater to diverse tastes.
30% as popular as Birmingham
7 minutes off the main route, 55% of way to Liverpool
Stratford-upon-Avon, a charming market town in the West Midlands of England, is renowned for its medieval architecture and as the birthplace of William Shakespeare - one of the most celebrated writers in English literature. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the picturesque River Avon or take in a performance by The Royal Shakespeare Company at either the Royal Shakespeare Theatre or Swan Theatre. The town boasts well-preserved Tudor buildings including Shakespeare's birthplace and Anne Hathaway's thatched cottage.
47% as popular as Birmingham
6 minutes off the main route, 62% of way to Liverpool
I'll never travel to Liverpool without this trip planner again
Birmingham is a significant city located in the West Midlands region of England. It has numerous landmarks that date back to the Industrial Revolution era, showcasing its rich history as a manufacturing hub during the 18th century. The city is also known for its network of canals, which radiate from Sherborne Wharf and offer trendy cafes and bars along their banks. One of the must-see attractions in Birmingham is the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery that boasts pre-Raphaelite masterpieces.
Most popular city on this route
1 minute off the main route, 70% of way to Liverpool
Telford, located in Shropshire, England, serves as the administrative center of Telford and Wrekin borough. Situated near the River Severn and close to the county's eastern boundary, this rapidly growing town offers a mix of countryside charm and employment opportunities. With its beautiful open spaces, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent retail options, Telford is an accessible destination with a range of attractions to explore.
26% as popular as Birmingham
12 minutes off the main route, 72% of way to Liverpool
Stoke-on-Trent, located in central England, is renowned for its pottery industry. The city boasts attractions like the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery, which showcases locally crafted ceramics and decorative arts, as well as a WWII Spitfire. Visitors can explore the Gladstone Pottery Museum set in a former Victorian factory and wander through the Italian gardens and forest with monkeys at Trentham Estate.
28% as popular as Birmingham
1 minute off the main route, 81% of way to Liverpool
Manchester, located in the northwest of England, is a prominent urban center with a prosperous industrial legacy. The preservation of Castlefield, which features an 18th-century canal system, commemorates the city's era as a textile hub. Additionally, the interactive Museum of Science & Industry allows visitors to explore Manchester's past in this industry. Salford Quays has been revitalized and now boasts Daniel Libeskind's Imperial War Museum North and the Lowry cultural center.
83% as popular as Birmingham
11 minutes off the main route, 88% of way to Liverpool
Chester, a city in northwestern England, was established as a Roman fortress in the 1st century A.D. The local red sandstone Roman walls are extensive and noteworthy. The Rows, an old city shopping district known for its 2-level covered arcades and Tudor-style half-timber buildings, is also remarkable. Just outside the walls of the old city lies a Roman amphitheatre with ongoing excavations.
58% as popular as Birmingham
10 minutes off the main route, 89% of way to Liverpool
Best stops along Ventnor to Liverpool drive
The top stops along the way from Ventnor to Liverpool (with short detours) are Alton Towers, Warwick Castle, and Stonehenge. Other popular stops include Blenheim Palace, Bletchley Park, and Drayton Manor Resort.
Birdworld, located in Bucks Horn Oak near Farnham, is the largest bird park in the UK, covering over 26 acres of land. With more than 600 birds on display, visitors can enjoy daily events such as penguin feeding and animal encounters. A safari train also operates within the park. The venue is family-friendly and includes Jenny Wren Children's Farm. The staff are friendly and accommodating to disabled and autistic adults with wheelchair access available throughout the premises.
We'll definitely be going back.. went not knowing what to expect but my daughter and I had a great time! Plenty to do and look at. Cafe was a bit pricey, but when you feel like it's going to a good cause, you don't mind as much! Highly recommended for half a day of fun
Josh Eicke — Google review
A fantastic place to visit especially if you love birds, lots of species even endangered ones. Little ones will enjoy it too. Visited the place with a toddler and a baby and had a great experience. There is also a playground and snake and coffee stops with toilets in between with baby change as well( wanted it a bit cleaner though). A mini farm with lots of animals I'd there too to visit hens, gooses, rabbits, turkeys, guinea pigs, goats and a pig, wich you can pet and feed as well. Parking space in front for free and a souvenir shop. Would definitely go again once babies older so they can understand a bit more what they see.
Vasiliki Celia Tsirona — Google review
The Front desk was very unorganized when we walked in. Lots of people were just waiting to be checked in.
Nice collection of Birds and Farm animals. There are 2 play areas for kids to enjoy slides and swings. Nice coffee shop near the entrance.
There are 2 big Tractors in the green patch for the kids
Ice cream station at couple of points with Benches.
Taran Kaur — Google review
I support disabled and autistic adults. Brought two of our clients here and had a really lovely day. Staff was very friendly and helpful, the birds are stunning and we all enjoyed seeing them. The whole place was clean, tidy, well sign posted and informative also easy to move round with a wheelchair. Lots to see and do, I highly recommend.
Ben Bridger — Google review
Fantastic place to visit. Birds and animals well looked after. Laid back atmosphere. Friendly staff. Educational talks. Lots to do. Benches everywhere for rests. Large open space if you are worried about covid. Kids love seeing the animals.
L A — Google review
Amazing array of birds in a well laid out park. Many endangered and exotic birds in large enclosures. Nice entertaining educational talks throughout the day. We loved our day which ended with a visit to the farm park. There were many picnic areas and snack shacks.
Kathy H — Google review
Always a great place to visit and stroll around the park. The farm is great and you can interact with many of the animals. Good variety of bird species as you would expect. Ample parking and good disabled access. Toilets are clean and tidy. No smoking or vaping on site.
D C — Google review
Good day out with the kids. Lots to see and do, as it is kind of off-season, it was quieter but also meant some things were closed or didn't have certain species on display.
We took a picnic with us and ate this at the furthest point of the park. Most of the kiosks were also closed, just the main cafe was open.
Definitely will be going again
Daniel Schofield — Google review
Took my grandson here on a Friday during half term. It was busy but its such a big place it didnt matter. I booked tickets the day before. The birds all look very healthy and the aviaries were all very clean. Sometimes its a little sad to see the birds in captivity but they are doing very valuable conservation work here which you can get involved with by adopting a bird. It was a wonderful day out and leaves you astonished at the stunning varieties of our feathered friends. Well worth a visit.
Teresa Rizzi — Google review
Overall a pleasant experience. Kids loved it. Lots of lovely birds as well as farm animals. The little farm was very cute.
The reason I couldn't give 5 stars was due to the cafe. I was slightly disappointed that there was no where comfortable to breastfeed my baby as they had sectioned off the sofa seating area early to clean it/ around 4.30, which meant I had to awkwardly feed on a standard chair outside. I had asked if it was at all possible to feed there even though it was cordoned off but was told the floor was still wet. I totally understand people want to get off in time at the end of the day, but seeing those are the only comfortable seats could a different area be closed off and cleaned first (if it has to be done so early before closing?) I just found it was very early for cleaning generally.
Also the main toilets near the entrance need a proper cleaner, or more thorough attention to detail as there were thick cobwebs behind each toilet door and the corners, clearly just been missed but just an observation.
S Jay — Google review
Nice day out with the kids. Wasn't busy at all as we went on an inset day. We watched 2 talks, the parrot 🦜 talk and the penguin 🐧 talk. The speaker was absolutely amazing! She was really nice and great with the kids. It's quite a small park, so I'm glad I had a 20% discount code. However, the talker said most of the money goes on the upkeep of the birds.
Abby Morgan — Google review
Lots to do here and lots to see! Separate baby change to the gendered toilets so any gender can change baby’s nappies. Lots of play areas for older kids. The animals look well cared for and there were lots of talks throughout the day from really knowledgable staff who were engaging and friendly. It was a little difficult to see everything and also see all the talks/experiences but for us that just shows there’s a lot to see and do there and something for us to return and do next time! I would advise taking a picnic as the food is expensive for what it is (hence the lost star). The smaller cafes around the park are open ‘seasonally’ and some weren’t open when we went in May but the main cafe was open and had everything you may need. The gift shop also seemed to close before the park closed so our son was incredibly disappointed with that. There is free parking on site which was good, unlike many places these days.
All in all, a very good day out and we would go again but we would continue to take our own food and make sure we leave plenty of time to have a look around the gift shop next time!
Joanne Oxford — Google review
Amazing day out can easily spend 4-5 hours here! Lots of amazing animals! However, I felt food was overpriced (£4.95 for a sandwich that's the same as you can get in a meal deal from a supermarket), would definitely recommend brining a picnic and using the picnic areas provided.
Callum Allsop — Google review
Absolutely brilliant place. Loved the variety of different birds you can see and all the farm animals towards the end. There are talks by the staff all the time, just check the schedule. They also have a cafe where you can buy snacks and drinks.
Coralie Pattenden — Google review
Had a lovely trip here for my daughters birthday. There were hardly any other people there so quick to get in. There are a large range of bird to view, the cockatoo's in particilar are great and very entertaining. The talk and penguin feeding was also very interesting, there were also a few cheeky herons who snuck in to steal some of the fish.
There is also a small farm at the back of the park but unfortunately when we got there they were putting all the animals to bed.
The cafe at the entrance is okay, my pennine tasted a bit burnt as though the sandwich press hadn't been properly cleaned and there were old burnt crumbs suck to my lunch.
Overall it was a great day and we will go back, though maybe with a picnic to have in their picnic areas. I would also happily recommend it to others for a day out.
Sian — Google review
We visited Bird World in March 2024. A group of four of us - two adults, two children (20 months and 4 months).
Generally a good day out for us and would recommend it for younger children.
The entry fee for a day we found to be reasonable, but the annual pass at £120 for our family seemed high compared to places like Wisley Gardens and Marwell Zoo (which are both half that).
We found everything to be clean and the animals healthy and happy. The play areas for children were good and the availability of food & drink good too. Although £2.65 for a single can of soft drink seemed excessive.
The farm area was slightly disappointing as there seemed to be some obvious animals missing - cows, horses.
Some of the enclosures looked a bit tired and could use a refresh (the animals were not suffering because of this).
Chris Bullard — Google review
We really enjoyed our time here, even in the cold of January. Very informative talks from the friendly staff, happy to answer all questions you may have. Particularly enjoyed the open areas we could walk through.
Space — Google review
Really excellent day out with young children. Lots to see and do, with extra activities on for half term. Keepers were knowledgable and the feeding and talk sessions are well worth attending. I was genuinely impressed by the condition and maintenance of the site as it is an independent attraction. Will definitely visit again.
rebecca allen — Google review
My visit to BirdWorld was not only filled with feathered wonders but also thoughtful amenities. The presence of a cafe and a well-stocked gift shop added to the overall experience. The staff, always ready to assist, enhanced the visit with their helpfulness. The variety of species and the wealth of information provided on each one created an enriching experience. Additionally, the feeding sessions, occurring around five times a day, added an interactive touch to the visit. BirdWorld truly offers a complete and enjoyable package for nature enthusiasts.
Z H — Google review
We had a great time here with our toddler. Given how local it is we bought annual memberships (if you come twice, could be worth it, three times in a year and it saves you money)
The area is huge and we spent about 2 hours and that was at toddler running pace (with intermittent lying on the floor)
There is some mud at the farm end and the park there (be warned!) But our toddler loved all the animals he could see.
We will be back! There are also events through the summer holiday - I added a picture of 2024 events which will make him very happy...
Ben Strawbridge — Google review
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Holt Pound Ln, A325, Farnham GU10 4LD, United Kingdom
Beautiful cathedral with a long medieval nave and a fascinating array of features from all eras. Highlights include the intricately carved choir stalls, Jane Austen's grave, and one of the UK's finest illuminated manuscripts. The excellent Tower and Roof Tours get busy, so book well in advance.
An amazing experience and an absolute pleasure to be able to see such a vast history.
You really have to interact with this cathedral you can look at it from a great distance but until you have walked the long hallways and exhibition you have not experienced much. the staff were very friendly and I thoroughly felt welcome.
I have included some Aerial photography that I took on this day. really gives you a whole new experience!
Daniel — Google review
Lovely grounds and a huge cathedral. It's a £10 to enter to ensure maintenance is kept up Nice to see an early bible on display and it's well protected and showcased. Jane Austin tomb inside just after the entry on the left. Amazing how massive the cathedral is and how intricate the detailing is. Lots of tour guides on hand to answer any questions - They were super nice. If in Winchester suggest you visit.
Huge Ross — Google review
Went last minute and arrived around 4.30pm. Closed 6pm in the week. Used local car park, inexpensive only had to pay to 6pm. Circa 40 to 50 stalls I'd guess, friendly lovely atmosphere. Plenty of food and drink options in the centre and lots of toilet options. Lovely pre Christmas experience. Thoroughly enjoyed, even non shopper me 🤣
Paul G — Google review
Oh my goodness! Do yourself a favor and visit the Winchester cathedral! It cost £12.50 to visit but was so worth it! We had a wonderful tour guide (which is included in the cost of admission) and I highly recommend the tours! So informative and they can only scratch on the history of the cathedral. Very cool to see Jane Austen’s burial site. Definitely check out the crypt if it isn’t flooded (which it may be seasonally but we lucked out in January). Also worth visiting the complimentary Exhibit which houses the Winchester Bible and Bishop’s library. Very wonderful experience.
Jaime Killion — Google review
Such a brilliant place to visit.
When we reached service was going on and we had free entry inside the cathedral. The choir was fantabulous - enjoyed it.
The cathedral itself is a very historical building located close to the town and an architectural marvel. Worth visit.
Lots of parking available around the town.
CGe0 — Google review
Winchester Cathedral at the heart of Winchester City is a historical but also a very stunning building impossingly stunning the city visitors. The staffs and really amazing in here. They're very welcoming and there are plenty of very lovely volunteers providing guided tours. They also provide activities leaflets for children and their ticket last a whole year so you can go back there on the same ticket all year round. Cannot recommend it enough
Bimeny Ponsiano — Google review
My first impressions of Winchester cathedral are just how impressive and absolutely stunning it is. You don't need to know the history of the cathedral to appreciate the design and architecture of this cathedral.
I went there 3 days in a row and every day I noticed different parts that I had previously missed. The entrance fee of £10 also acts as a 12 month pass to visit as many times as you like, outstanding value for money.
There are also free tours of the cathedral at various times which is very informative. I will definitely be going back several more times over the next 12 months.
Eddie Rogers — Google review
We did the guided tower tour at an extra GBP3 and it was well worth it. So much information, a great view from the top and the chance to see behind the scenes. Lots of very narrow stairs though so not suitable for anyone with mobility issues. And take a small bag if at all.
Melanie — Google review
Wonderful, impressive cathedral! We wanted to have just a short glimps and finally stayed over 2 hours! The £ 12.50 entry fee where well worth it!
Roland Zeller — Google review
It's a great place to explore the great history of Winchester. It's really a big church with beautiful art and historic monuments. There is a small garden in front of it and you can spend quality time with your family and friends.
Ajay Bali — Google review
Didn't pay for entry
We felt £12.50 was quite a lot for entry and decided not to pay, but we did soon realise how big it was and could see potential justification for why entry was expensive. You can explore a garden and see lots of the architecture without going in. The gift shop is expensive and mostly about the area not just the Cathedral.
Lucy_ M — Google review
What a gorgeous historical place to have a graduation.
So we'll organised in a wonderful venue & City.
Lovely and Warm we were nice and comfortable during the 90 minutes ceremony.
Perfect memories made today in a gorgeous historic building.
Jon Cass #11 — Google review
Thoroughly enjoyable experience today. Entry fee is good value for money, you can get guided tours too included. Amazing, huge building with lots of history. Friendly staff and guides. Thanks for a lovely visit. Your ticket is also valid for a year but I still thought it was great value for one visit!
Kerry Ellerington — Google review
This is a must-see place if you are visiting Winchester, the cathedral is fantastic for those that love this type of building. We did the standard cathedral tour including the crypt, our guide was a lovely lady called Angela and she was so good with children and adults and so informative. Two of us then did the Tower Tour, this was amazing and well worth the fee.
Martin Dixey — Google review
Fascinating history and stories around the building. Would thoroughly recommend the guided tour. We also enjoyed the Tower tour, but not for the faint hearted, have a heart or lung problem or you don't like narrow steps or heights. You need at least three full days to get the most out of a visit here. One ticket lasts a full year so your return is feasible. Another exhibit we enjoyed was The Kings and Scribes. Extremely interesting history.
Mary Roberts — Google review
I was incredibly impressed by Winchester cathedral and it is 100% worth the £10 entry.
Upon entry we were told a free guided tour would start soon - you should definitely partake in this. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and witty. He took us around the whole cathedral and told us stories and facts about the cathedral, its history, the royals and of Winchester itself. Thank you for having these tours as it really sets the visit apart.
The cathedral is stunning architecturally and you can see the different styles as you move throughout the cathedral.
There was also an exhibit on which added even more value to the ticket. I would certainly visit again even though it's a 2 hour drive. This is by far the best thing to do in Winchester.
The only reason it got 4 stars is because of the toilets - water and mud all over the floor and it smelt like the sanitary bins needed changing.
Vicci Skinner — Google review
Wow, what a cathedral. Anyone who is in the vicinity must see it. We were also lucky enough to see the choir rehearsing and we were accompanied by church songs through the huge building. If you are interested in history, you should bring time, as there is a lot to read and learn.
Marcus Schuler — Google review
Magnificent bit of architecture, a wonderful cathedral set in the historical town of Winchester. £12.50 for an adult, kids are free. A bit of a museum, art gallery, and tower tours. Gift shop and cafe are in a separate building across the courtyard.
Steven Moseley — Google review
Remarkable building, with fantastic exhibitions and guides, well worth the price of entry and definitely worth checking out.
The building remains a functioning church, but in addition it acts as a museum and art gallery. Definitely worth getting the guided tour, and make sure you check out the actual museum section (off to the right hand side towards the back of the church).
Simon Hill — Google review
The cathedral has been on my bucket list for years. It was great. I did the tour, which made it so much more interesting. It's definitely a must.
Caryn Atkins — Google review
Subject: A Tranquil Journey Through Time at Winchester Cathedral
I had the pleasure of visiting Winchester Cathedral in August, and the experience was nothing short of awe-inspiring. The cathedral, nestled in the heart of Winchester, captivates both history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Upon entering, the sheer grandeur of the cathedral is immediately apparent. The magnificent architecture, with its towering spires and intricate details, transports you to a bygone era. The breathtaking interior is a testament to centuries of craftsmanship and devotion.
One of the highlights of my visit was exploring the beautiful chapels within the cathedral. Each one tells a unique story, adorned with stunning stained glass windows and ornate tombs that carry the weight of history. The tranquil ambiance inside creates a sense of reverence, inviting visitors to reflect and appreciate the cultural and religious significance of the site.
Winchester Cathedral's famous nave is a marvel in itself. The soaring ceilings and the play of light filtering through the windows create a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal place for quiet contemplation. The architecture and the artistry on display truly make this cathedral a masterpiece.
The guided tour provided valuable insights into the cathedral's rich history. Learning about the notable events that took place within its walls and the prominent figures buried on its grounds added depth to my appreciation of the site.
Outside, the cathedral grounds are equally charming. The well-maintained gardens and the close proximity to the city center make it a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling town.
In conclusion, my visit to Winchester Cathedral was a journey through time and a feast for the senses. It's a place where history, art, and spirituality converge seamlessly. I left with a profound appreciation for the dedication and skill of those who contributed to the creation and preservation of this cultural gem. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or someone seeking a moment of tranquility, Winchester Cathedral is an absolute must-visit.
Anatori Sealife — Google review
Amazing place to visit, so much to see and learn about. The Moon was just incredible and seemed so real. Also wonderful to see the Bible dating back over a thousand years. Really helpful, kind staff. The crypt was brilliant. The architecture was just mingling. Your ticket lasts 12 months so you can visit as much as you want for the year.
Rhys Hills — Google review
An impressive place to visit. Lots of interesting historical facts and beautiful interior. Entry £12,50 per adult, but it is worth the price. You can easily spend minimum 2 hours inside if you like history and facts.
moramiko — Google review
I took the Tower Tour. 213 extremly narrow, steep, and uneven stairs to the top. A great view when you get there, especially if you get lucky with the weather. The decent to Ringing Floor (Britain's largest apparently) is probably slightly more challenging (down those same stairs). I have given this tour 5 stars because the guides are excellent and I enjoyed it very much but do be aware that this is not your ordinary climb (and the number of steps is not really the issue)
Richard Sharp — Google review
Incredible building with so much history. Your ticket allows you entry for a full year. Highly recommend the free guided tours from the volunteers, they are very knowledgeable and passionate. Always visit this cathedral whenever I'm in Winchester.
Lyndsay Barrett — Google review
A very interesting building, lots of history. £12.50 per adult, get a guided tour as you will miss most of the interesting stuff.
The tickets once purchased are valid for 12 months,so always good for a return visit.
I will return the next time i am in Winchester.
Stephen Stiles — Google review
Superb & impressive 1000+ year old Cathedral in the center of Winchester.
Known to be one of the earliest stone built buildings in the whole of England & Europe.
Also there is a museum inside over 3 floors.
You can get a free guided tour which is included in the entrance fee. (The entrance fee allows unlimited visits in the year)
See images for pricing and opening times.
Definitely worth a look. 👀
Cafe, shop and toilets.
Parking available in the town at various places
Simon Stepsys — Google review
Definitely the best place to visit in Winchester by a hell of a lot, and definitely one of the best cathedrals in the country. The history is incomparable and it's a perfect example of cathedral architecture through time, with everything from Romanesque to Perpendicular Gothic, and modern additions. When I visited it was school holidays, a little bit grey but with blue skies later, and not busy at all (I got pictures from one end to the other without any people in, very rare, even at around 11-12ish).
The nave roof is stunning, very similar to that at Norwich, and the west window is like a mosaic of old glass that although isn't perhaps as impressive as others gives off a beautifully clear light and reminds me of the Dean's Eye at Lincoln.
The transepts and the crypt are the oldest parts of the building, in their Norman big-bonedness. The crypt was flooded when I was there which I had been desperately hoping for (although it's probably not the best thing for the cathedral building) - it is amazing. I tried to take a (very cautious) step down from the top step of the main viewing platform and realised I couldn't because the water was only just lower than it - it was very high. But it's beautiful - the statue is reflected perfectly. I'd love to see it unflooded as well and take the crypt tour around to the other side.
The choir is lovely under the crossing, another beautiful ceiling with a helpful mirror to look up. I couldn't see any miserichords but I'm sure there were some - I did find a little finial with a funny looking guy on it who was pretty cool. The roof screen is one of the highlights - every little niche has it's own carved vault, many statues all life sized and with tiny details you can't even make out, and so many other little touches that make it an absolute masterpiece of Mediaeval and Victorian craftsmanship. The area behind is closed off but you can get around into the retrochoir with the tomb of St. Swithin which is lovely and some gorgeous chapels with lovely ceilings. There's a little section of ceiling between the end of the aisles and the retrochoir's first arch where it goes diagonal and the vault becomes really strange and wonky which I adore - a very inelegant solution to a problem that's created a beautiful little detail.
Another highlight was the Kings & Scribes exhibition - it's great to get up into the triforium without a tour. The bottom floor has the Winchester Bible which is very beautiful, the video explaining how they made it is probably not the best for some people (like vegans - it's written on calfskins) but is very interesting. There's a lot of effort put in there. Upstairs you can go inside the library where you can look, on a screen, inside some of the manuscripts, which have some graffiti and other cool little things. There's also a really interesting bit about the mortuary chests where they found the bones of ancient kings, and how they figured out who they are - they're unsure but they've put in a hell of a lot of effort - I watched most of the video on display which was interesting, and loved the interactive screens that went through the science of it. On the top floor there's windows through into the nave aisles' rooves, which are very dark but cool to see, a large balcony over the transept which offers stunning views of the crossing, an exhibition about the building of the cathedral, and another exhibition about the monks' lives which was also good. Loved the bit about the cathedral, and the views too.
The café and shop are also very good - had a lovely panini, good loos. here's also a statue outside the café of the diver who saved the cathedral - very much worth a read, and there's a pub named after him nearby. It's also worth going along the south side because you walk through the buttresses along the wall which makes for great pictures, especially in the golden hour.
So, I highly recommend a visit to Winchester Cathedral. It's simply wonderful. I'll have to come back to take a crypt tour, and the tower tour which I didn't take because I did one at Salisbury.
National Trust-owned Hughenden is a lovely country house that was home to the former Prime Minister between 1848 and 1881. The gardens were designed by Mrs. Disraeli, who did a cracking job. There isnt much room in the garden, but thats nice as it offers a bit of peace without being overwhelming or feeling like you are missing anything. Lovely place to visit, especially if you're interested in British history!
The car park is about a third of a mile from the house but the walk is downhill through open woodland so is a pleasant stroll. Thankfully there is a lift on a golf buggy available if needed for the return journey.
The house itself is quite modest but the story of Disraeli's life and his friendship with Queen Victoria is excellently displayed. The guides too are very impressive and helpful.
Gifts from Queen Victoria fill the rooms which are displayed as Disraeli would have had them.
During the second world war the house was used for preparing maps primarily for the RAF and there is a very interesting section explaining this.
Nearby the house is a tea room and well stocked shop. Plants are also for sale.
A really interesting house, well worth the visit. Allow about 90 minutes to see the house.
The gardens are also well tended and beautiful. Certainly worth exploring.
Jocelyn Twose — Google review
Very interesting visit, excellent volunteers full of informative snippets. Loved the World War 2 story only uncovered by a chance overheard remark in 2004. Particularly liked the availability of deck chairs on the lawn for visitors to rest a while. Lovely to see so many volunteers tending the beautiful gardens.
Yvonne Morris — Google review
Lovely visit, great courtyard for refreshments and gift shop, nice walks around the estate. House is wonderful, character features and WW 2 history. Walled garden is nice to walk around. Easy for parking and plenty of spaces. Lovely views and the walk down to the church and back.
Jonathan Faithfull — Google review
What a stunning house with beautiful interior and exterior detailing. Amazing artwork and furniture pieces along with very interesting history. The gardens were full of apple trees, plumbs and quince, everything very well looked after with knowledgeable volunteers on hand to have a conversation. One drawback was that we visited after some heavy rain and the walking routes were steep and slippery from mud making them inaccessible and dangerous. Cafe was lovely with delicious coffee and cakes - the berry flapjack was especially yummy! The church is also worth a visit where Disraeli and his wife are buried.
Iza Z — Google review
What a lovely place for a family day trip. Beautiful grounds. A fantastic historic home to look around. You will learn many things about Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli and the house's secret use during the second world war. The staff are so helpful and knowledgeable. A lovely time all round. I autumn bring a bag for all the windfall apples from the trees.
krish kandiah — Google review
Huge grounds with long or short walks. Impressive house and architecture beautifully decorated and furnished. Only disappointment was lack of decorative formal garden, although neat and tidy lacked the Wow factor. Good cafe on ground floor.
Warren Heath — Google review
The museum is informative. The garden is pretty. The cafe is good too and declares calories info. I particularly like this. Although by law, all cafe and restaurant in England must do so, I know a lot of them haven't.
Jenny Clarke — Google review
Stunning place with nature all around. Ample parking space which is a bit further up from the manor but the walk is a very relaxing through the woods. Very helpful and friendly staff. Was able to get a free wheel chair from the shop for my mum. Cafe has lovely vegetarian option, and every dish is so delicious. The manor itself is so well maintained and gorgeous. Lovely place for a day out.
Sachin Pandey — Google review
wonderful place. A clean environment, an excellent park for walking and relaxing. The gardens are well maintained, there are places to sit and rest. The house is clean and well maintained. The volunteers are kind. The organization is excellent. There is a large parking lot. Also blue badge parking. The cafe is good, but the food and drinks are a bit expensive. There are tables outside and inside. Relatively close to London.
Tscetomira Petkova — Google review
NT which includes parking. Lovely property with gardens & rolling fields. Lovely red kites flying close enough to see their feathers. House is lovely & story of Disraeli really interesting. They have talks, good to hear about the history of the man himself & his life. You can visit the grave of Disraeli, his wife & another lady, that's a story in itself!.
cat p — Google review
Nice experience but the house was not quite as impressive as I was expecting. Lovely grounds, great cafe and shop. Volunteers very friendly and knowledgeable. Worth a visit but personally I wouldn’t rush back for a while.
Will H — Google review
It's a beautiful property, with scenic walks. But the approach road is very narrow, so you should have good driving skills. Lastly, very interesting associations with World War 2, were surprising.
Gaurav Kaushik — Google review
Another lovely NT property with varied history and beautiful grounds. Enjoyed my summer time visit and could have spent hours in the walled garden soaking up the sun and admiring the orchard. Gardeners and groundskeepers do a fantastic job.
Amy Collier — Google review
Lovely place to visit. House well worth a visit and staff very informative regarding the History . Lovely little coffee and gift shop. However, just be aware that several areas can be quite step in places , especially if you visit the church at the bottom of the hill.
Vivien Baker — Google review
Homely rather than stately is how I would describe Hughenden, though the main rooms are Victorian dark; dark walls, dark furniture, dark fabrics, so even on a hot, sunny day it seemed cold. Some rooms house an exhibition of it's war-time use as a base for mapping enemy targets.
The gardens are pretty rather than impressive but with the bonus of red kites circling overhead looking for picnic left overs.
If it wasn't for the Disraeli link this would be a fairly ordinary manor house badly gothicised in the Victorian fashion.
Watch out for the steep, uneven drive up to the car park that will test your springs and exhaust mountings.
herm dig — Google review
Not only is this a great stately home, but it also gives a good history lesson about the famous British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli. There are many artifacts related to the great man's life. Particularly interesting is the video about his relationship with Queen Victoria. Around the mansion is a lovely garden, and nearby is the church where Disraeli is buried.
T Hartberg — Google review
We had a lovely visit to Hughenden today whilst staying in the area. It was easy to find with plenty of parking.
It was a short walk through a wooded area and past a pretty orchard to where there is a cobbled courtyard with modern toilets and two cafe outlets.
There is indoor seating but also plenty of outdoor tables with parasols which was perfect given the warm weather.
We had a curried cauliflower pasty which was delicious and the coffee and tea was good too!
The house was just a short walk away and houses some beautiful sculpture and paintings as well as a fascinating exhibition on the role of the property as a secret map-drawing base during the Second World War.
The grounds are beautiful and with lots of mature trees so some nice walking with good views :)
Diane Wass — Google review
Really beautiful National Trust property. The grounds are well kept and the Twelve Days of Christmas displays were really lovely. The house is well worth a visit too - very interesting exhibitions on its war time use and Disraeli.
Sophie V-E — Google review
Very nice house and gardens. Interesting exhibitions about Disraeli, and about the use of the house by the RAF for mapmaking during WWII.
We visited on Good Friday and it was very busy, I think because there was a children's Easter event. The car park was really overfull with people parking on verges. Despite that, we had no problem looking around the house and we were able to get lunch in the café.
Kay Tee — Google review
Another amazing National Trust Venue. I was blown away by the association with World War 2. It really put into perspective how scary war times must have been for all involved. It's a beautiful maintained house. And the grounds are gorgeous. A fun day for old and young.
Katherine Pearse — Google review
Second time here, a lovely house steeped in history! It wasn't until 2004 that it was revealed that part of the house was used during the second world war to defeat the Nazis. Go see, go and learn the history and also enjoy the grounds for superb walks.
Gary Dickinson — Google review
Lovely house with an even lovelier gardens. Not much to see but was still a nice place to visit. Cafe was nice but the staff working there were rude and didn’t acknowledge us for about five minutes
Caroline B — Google review
Another beautiful National Trust's site near London, therefore I was afraid it will be full of strange visitors and not well maintained. Area around wasn't most beautiful, but maybe because of lack of plants and flowers in winter. Facade needs some work as well, but inside our experience was satisfying and older Britons, as a volunteers, were very helpful and knowledgeable. Building has a very interesting history, especially the part connected to the second world war. I'm not going to write to many details and leave sightseeing as a surprise for you, but there were few very interesting rooms, amazing old maps, furniture, and even activities for kids. I really enjoyed external library with many interesting books. I spend around 20 minutes just with thick book about world wines! :) Thanks for you work 🙏
Marek Kluka — Google review
A very beautiful and well preserved Victorian mansion with hidden past, that served as the country house of the Prime Minister, Benjamin Disraeli, 1st Earl of Beaconsfield from 1848 to 1881. It is now owned by the National Trust.
Very helpful guides who can answer any questions about the history of the house and their late residents.
The house is located in a very peaceful Chiltern valley with picturesque views of woods and hills. Lots of benches around where you can sit and enjoy the chirping birds.
The 1,500 acres of parkland surrounding the red brick Victorian mansion of Hughenden Manor is great for a short walk in lovely surroundings.
There are 4 different types of walk you can choose there: the hilly, flat, forest and the park.
10 different hiking loops around Hughenden!
So even a spoilt one will enjoy it!
A cafe with food and drink is available.
There are also the gift shop and a toilet facilities too.
The car park is a decent size.
Don't forget to visit the Grade II listed St Michael and All Angels' Anglican Church in which churchyard Benjamin Disraeli was buried. The church is located not far from the Benjamin Disraeli mension. The car park is right outside of the church.
Irina Springate — Google review
Great value as we had lottery tickets and got in cheap, can be pricey if you pay going rate. Car park is up a hill so if mobility an issue they have a golf buggy. Has inspired me to get a book on Disraeli to learn more, and after that may get book on Gladstone
Phil Evans — Google review
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4.5
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Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe, HP14 4LA, United Kingdom
Highclere Castle is a historic country residence, renowned for being used as a key filming location in the popular British television series Downton Abbey. Located in a picturesque setting, Highclere Castle boasts grand interiors and sprawling grounds that are open to visitors during seasonal periods. Guided tours are available and include visits to the castle gardens and nearby locations that were also featured in the show such as Bampton. Visitors can easily access Highclere Castle via car or by joining a tour group.
Absolutely gorgeous castle, a must for Downtown Abbey fans. Stunning gardens, plenty to see with great tea rooms. Great value for money too. Perfect day out.
Frances Casey — Google review
I recently visited Highclere Castle and had a wonderful experience. The tour guide was excellent, providing a wealth of information about the history and architecture of the castle. The grounds were also beautiful, and I enjoyed exploring them during the tour. To top off the visit, I had a lovely afternoon tea at the castle. The tea and sandwiches were delicious, and the atmosphere was perfect. Overall, I highly recommend a visit to Highclere Castle. The tour is informative and enjoyable, and the afternoon tea is a delicious treat
Duncan Andrews — Google review
Beautiful gardens, especially the wild flower meadow. Very interesting house and Egyptian exhibition. House includes pictures of the filming of Downton Abbey in the actual positions in the rooms where they took place. Good catering facilities with lots of inside & outside seating areas. Well worth a visit.
Judy Bird — Google review
Who hasn't seen Downton Abbey?! Highclere Castle is a grand and beautiful place. The visit was very interesting. It would have been nice to see more rooms, may be the servants quarter too. The Egyptian exhibition was fascinating and so well set-up. We had a walk in the garden too, so peaceful. It was such a lovely day. I only gave 4 stars as in both cafes, no vegan food was offered. We were surprised and disappointed as you can now find vegan anywhere.
Nathalie M — Google review
Really good experience. We had a guided tour which was very informative. Loads of on site parking. Easy enough to find. The lunch provided was more than expected which we all really enjoyed.
Rich Davis — Google review
Wonderful trip to Highclere Castle. Enjoyed looking round the castle, although a long queue to go in the (about an hour wait) but of course August is peak holiday time so I would expect it to be busy. The Castle grounds are wonderful with views stretching way into the distance. Plenty of trees and seats in the shade to shelter from the sweltering hot day. Hot and cold drinks plus sandwiches and snacks available at several little cafes around the central area with more than enough seating and tables. Staff very polite and helpful. We will definitely make a return visit at some point.
Cathy Hodson — Google review
As a big fan of Downton Abbey, I’ve wanted to visit Highclere Castle for years. The chance finally came when my wife and I were given tickets (including the afternoon tea box and Egyptian exhibition) as a wedding gift. We were not disappointed! A breathtaking view of the castle greeted us on arrival to the car park. From the moment we exited our car, we were treated kindly by all the friendly staff - including the car park attendants who enthusiastically welcomed us. Long story short, we were very impressed by not only the tidiness of every inch of this property - both inside and out - but by it’s beauty as well. Fans of the show who want to literally stand where their favourite characters have stood will have their wish fulfilled. Unfortunately, photography isn’t allowed inside the castle, but that’s actually a good thing as it keeps the flow moving and allows you to focus on the home instead of your camera or phone.
Outside, the gardens and grounds are a must see, so wonderfully maintained. We were also pleasantly surprised by the quality and amount of food in our afternoon tea for two box. What a fantastic idea!
We would definitely visit again and highly recommend it to anyone who’s interested.
Brad E — Google review
Huge Downton Abbey fan, this tour was 100% worth the time. We hired a car and driver for the day so we could also make stops on the way home. The food was fantastic really liked everything they gave as apart of the tour it was a really nice touch.
Mike Lewis — Google review
A beautiful castle and Home
Stunning grounds too. The guides were very interesting and informative and particularly helpful with disabled clients, I was unable to negotiate stairs and they gave me a chair and photo book of upstairs whilst I waited for my relatives. Also showed me an easier way to see the Egyptian exhibition.
Frances Fagg — Google review
It was an absolutely wonderful experience. The castle is treasure to discover. The staff are knowledgeable, kind, and attentive. I told them that I am Canadian, and they took the time to explain the connection between Highclere and Canada. Then, we got to visit the staterooms, drawing rooms, libraries, dining room, and the great Egyptian exhibition. The grounds that are manicured to perfection with trees from all over the world and benches underneath so you can sit and just enjoy the moment. The beautiful gardens with all kinds of flowers and greenery look like something out of a book. The tea rooms that offer tantalizing goodies and, of course, nice souvenir shop with something to please everyone. I would go back any time. I recommend it to anyone to take the time to visit this place.
Doreen's Discoveries — Google review
As a big Downton fan this place is dreamlike! My husband doesn’t watch the show but he really loved it. It’s a wonderful castle as it’s furnished as the Earl & Duchess reside there. The guides are just so passionate and knowledgeable…we were lucky enough to spend time with Greg whose enthusiasm and real love for the castle is boundless. We found out so many details ..like the architect who designed West Minster also designed Highclere! We were not able to book timed tickets as they were sold out..but we went and lined up at 8:30am (ticket office opens @9am) on a Sunday morning (take a jacket) and we’re able to secure tickets. Make sure you buy the beautiful book at the entrance as you can’t take pics inside..all the gorgeous interiors are in the book. There are fantastic cafes on the grounds and don’t forget to visit the Secret Gardens. Amazing gift shop too. We were also lucky to see the Duchess with her beautiful Golden Labs on a walk..she is lovely. We didn’t want to leave.
Sheree Secrett — Google review
Wow! What a beautiful elegant place, well maintained and staff were very knowledgeable and informative. Even though it rained for us so didn't get to enjoy the stunning grounds surrounding the estate, it was a beautiful place. As with most places the gift shop was a little expensive but the cafe was reasonably priced, we even enjoyed a warm wild boar sausage in a baguette for lunch! Overall would definitely recommend this place whether your a 'downtown abbey' fan or not!
Rachel Adams — Google review
So much rich history beyond the charm of Downton. It's so wonderful that the family has opened their home to visitors to see. We loved every minute!
Benjamin Buckley — Google review
The location and building is fabulous. If you enjoyed Downton Abbey, then you will love the tour of the building. Just be aware access is limited to specific days of the year.
Michael Dickinson — Google review
Highly recommend. Absolutely smashing, worth the bit extra for the Egyptian exhibition as it tells a lot of the history. The house and grounds are just absolutely gorgeous. Food is a little limited. Gift shop has smashing assortment of bits. So delighted to have visited.
Han W — Google review
A really lovely experience and a must-see for any Downton Abbey fans. The house itself is gorgeous and very well-kept with lots of information about the behind the scenes of Downton Abbey. You can see into the rooms where various scenes were filmed and the furniture is exactly the same so you really feel like you’re stepping in there! The gardens are wonderful and well worth the time to walk around and see everything. The only thing for us, the castle doesn’t allow picnics on the grounds at all. A little bit disappointing in my opinion as you can purchase food on-site and eat it there, even if they had a designated area for picnics, I think it would be better. Just something to keep in mind if you are planning on taking food with you.
Beth J — Google review
Wonderful visit, superb house which is still partly
Lived in, with the added bonus of the Egyptology collection and display. No photos of either as photography is banned inside the house. ( ironic as a major film series has been filmed inside the house!) . The grounds are magnificent with extensive views, with the best wildflower meadow I have ever seen , contradicting the Dolly Parton hit ‘ wildflowers don’t care where they grow’ - theses ones do and they have chosen well. A lovely day out with the usual tea and coffee , very good, ( plus the obligatory gift shop ). Access and parking easy and a good idea to book ahead.
Brian Cohen — Google review
My wife and I enjoyed the Downton Abbey series very much. As a Christmas gift I arranged a visit to Highclere Castle in January as a way to beat back those winter blues. A two hour guided tour was expensive but well worth it. A hardcover book and a nice tea (below stairs) were all part of the deal - very nice. There was also an excellent Tutankhamen exhibition. The Highclere website is quite formal but don't be put off by that, staff are friendly and many are great fun! We re- watched the series as a result and enjoyed it even more to know the 'we were there!' 🤭
Derek Jones — Google review
A great home to explore - well maintained and a well managed one-way route through the ground and first floors.
Detailed history on the building is lacking but they do provide information cards in some rooms. There are helpful and knowledgable staff throughout the castle so do ask them any questions you may have.
Photos and signs also tie back the various rooms to their use in the filming of Downton Abbey.
There are a couple of cafe and food vans scattered through the property - nothing amazing but the food is reasonably priced.
If you are arriving at Newbury station it may be wise to pre book a taxi and also arrange your pickup. Do be prepared that the taxi journey is very steep - £50+, if others are around ask to share the taxi and split the fare.
NSLondon — Google review
I’ve been watching Downton Abbey basically on repeat for the last 7 years. I was ECSTATIC when our family found out we were getting stationed in England a few years ago and Highclere has been on my must-see list ever since. We finally got to visit over Easter weekend and it was a dream come true! Lady Carnarvon was directing pedestrians to the house from the car park which I thought was great, very down to Earth. I totally fangirled when we saw her. 😂 The house was a dream and I loved getting to see the rooms that I’ve become so familiar with these last several years via the show. The only thing that would have made it better would have been if we could take photos inside. I get that it’s their private home and they have family photos out, but no one is there to take photos of Carnarvon family photos. We’re there to see the most important character in a beloved show. We’ve visited a number of castles that are still family homes (Alnwick, Blenheim, Belvoir, etc.) and were permitted to take pictures inside. To each their own.
We ordered a picnic tea box when purchasing our tickets and thoroughly enjoyed everything inside it. The sandwiches, scones and sweet treats were all fantastic. It was £75 for a box for 2 people. A little more than we would normally pay for something like that, but it also came with two free hot drinks and a small bottle of champagne.
The grounds are also beautiful and there is a lot to explore beyond the house. Overall, highly recommend visiting if you’re a Downton Abbey fan.
Mariana Miller — Google review
As a Downtown Abbey fan this was great. The gardens are beautiful and you could spend hours walking around them. The house is very impressive but be prepared to lock the experience in your head because photography inside the house is not allowed unfortunately. But as the house is actually lived in and not a museum, this is understandable.
Greg C — Google review
We had a wonderful time in Highclere Castle recently. The whole building was magical. Lady Carnarvon welcomed us and did a very nice speech before we started our tour inside the castle. Unfortunately we weren't able to take any pictures inside. Our tour guide Greg, was very entertaining and informative. But all the other staff were very warm and friendly. The afternoon tea was very delicious and we were spoiled by the lovely waiters. The gift shop has plenty of choice and the free books were signed by Lady Carnarvon. The only one thing that was a bit disappointing, that is the ladies lavatory. They definitely need a little bit of improvement. Otherwise we did enjoy every minute of the tour and we will definitely come back. Highly recommended!
Charlotte Kovacs — Google review
Awsome experience!
The gardens are beautiful, a lovely walk around the grounds.
The house is a work of art, if you love Downton Abbey, then this is a must for your Bucket List 😊
You have to pre-book to enter the house.
Andrew Palmer — Google review
Such a beautiful place and great for fans of Downton Abbey. We were greeted by the Lady Carnarvon and had our photo taken in front of the grand Christmas tree. We were offered tea and coffee followed by a tour of the castle. The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and clearly had a good relationship with the family. We got to visit the Egyptian collection and lastly had afternoon tea, which Lady Carnarvon came to join us for. All in all, an absolutely fantastic experience that I can't wait to do again!
No photos are allowed inside the castle.
Coralie Pattenden — Google review
Went for their Egyptian exhibition event to celebrate 100 years since the family discovered Tutankhamen's tomb.
The house is stunning and if you're a Downton abbey fan there is a lot to look at (no photos allowed in the house due to insurance).
The grounds and gardens are stunning and vast. Lots to walk around in a nice day. They offer a events during the year which are incredible and good fun to dress up.
There is a lot of history and interesting things to observe. Would definitely return and watch the show now
Izzy Creative247 — Google review
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4.5
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Highclere Park, Highclere, Newbury RG20 9RN, United Kingdom
A beautiful and well-maintained parkland with a stately home is a must-visit tourist attraction in Basildon. With multiple films and TV series having been filmed here, it's no wonder the house is so impressive. The grounds are perfect for picnics, and it's easy to see why this destination has been loved by locals and tourists for years.
Bit of a queue to get into car park due overflow field too wet to use. No problem though. Beautiful light draped trees leading to house. Stunning house with plenty of rooms open, many with great Christmas decorations. Busy but pleasant cafe, no problem getting a table. Many paths around the parkland. Well recommended.
AS — Google review
This is such a beautiful National Trust house. It's stunning inside and the views are also magnificent.
If you watch any of the films that filmed at the house, you will even enjoy it more.
And all volunteering staff was amazing, so patient and friendly. I highly recommend this venue!
Don't miss the shell room. It's breathtaking!
Parking can be tricky on nice day but worth the wait!
Laura F. — Google review
A beautiful, stately home with awesome grounds that provide ample grounds for spending an entire day, especially when the weather is nice. There are so many choices of picnic spots, each with a unique view. The cafeteria serves decent food at a modest price. Access to the main house may be a little difficult for those in wheelchairs although the trust may have made provisions that I didn't notice.
Children of all ages will have a great time here as it's perfect for a family day out.
Fola — Google review
Excellent day out. Unfortunately it was raining when we visited but did little to taint the overall experience of the day. The volunteer guides dotted around the house were knowledgeable and very friendly. The cafe was very good too. We will visit again soon - this time when the sun is out!
Ed Casson — Google review
So grateful for our National Trust memberships. Another lovely place to visit and once again fantastic volunteers on hand with founts of knowledge. The grounds are impeccably kept and there are 4 walks ranging from 20 mins to 2 hours through fields and woodland. Also don't be put off by the fairly plain exterior, inside the house is stunning. We loved it.
Wayne Arnold — Google review
It's a lovely country estate. Ideal for dog walkers, families or for anyone who just want to go for a nice woodland walk or look around in the house which appeared on many movies including Downtown Abbey.
The Christmas decoration in the house is also very lovely during the festive season. Weekends can be busy at the car park. The earlier you could go is the best. (AM)
Anita Czene — Google review
Stunning building and gardens. Several major movies have been filmed here and well deserved. Interior rooms are beautifully decorated and the enthusiastic staff are more than happy to help and answer questions.
David Hamilton — Google review
A beautiful park and palace with incredibly helpful guides in every room, where you can get a huge amount of knowledge about what happened in the palace and when. The beautifully preserved rooms and conservation of historical artifacts, along with Lady Charlotte's breathtaking shell collection, are simply stunning. It's amazing how easy it once was to acquire and transport such shells without any problem. Wonderful views and delightful green landscapes offer the opportunity for endless walks with your dog. On-site facilities include toilets, a café, and a souvenir shop. It's a welcoming place with lots of interesting information and beautiful decorations.
Inez Bodio — Google review
Recently visited this hidden gem with friends - honestly, we wanted to have a picnic somewhere nice, halfway between the two houses and Basildon Park popped up on the map 🗺
Realised, when we arrived at the house, that multiple films and TV series have been filmed here 🎥
The house is magnificent, the grounds are beautiful and if you are as lucky as we were; it’s the perfect spot for a picnic - would definitely visit again.
I’ve given a 4* rating, only because I felt £15.00 per person is quite steep - although I’m hoping we can visit the national parks regularly, so we may invest in a couple of memberships.
Savannah Blanks — Google review
Taking the exit from the M4, I followed a couple of signs to the car park entrance, as maps takes you to another entrance. Fortunately I found a spot in the overflow car park as the main car park was busy.
The ticket office, shop and toilets are located at the start. Before you take a brief uphill walk to the tea room and main house. Lots of space in the tea room with indoor and outdoor seating. There is also an interesting murial painted around the inside seating area.
Inside the house there is a room with extravagant wall paper depicting scenes from India.
There is a small garden at the rear of the house with a wide variety of plants.
I took the long boundary walk which lasted approximately 55minutes at a fairly moderate pace. You pass through a cow field at the start and some children's play areas towards the end. Lots of open space and places to walk/explore. Didn't feel particularly busy at any point.
Gavin Williams — Google review
Beautiful house and grounds with some nice walks. The house has been carefully and tastefully restored after falling into disrepair. Excellent staff and volunteers with great knowledge. Very nice cafe/restaurant area also with courtyard seating. Would recommend.
Malcolm Thomas — Google review
NT property that has been used in the filming of Downton Abbey. Beautiful extensive grounds many peaceful walks.stunning scenery. Lovely coffee shop next to a pretty rose garden
JanB — Google review
Well maintained grounds and very friendly staff. The staff in the house were VERY chatty, I don’t mind usually but it took much too long to actually get to look around because they were talking for so long. Lots to see and do, and the Tea Room is lovely, a nice value for an afternoon tea and scone. Overall a great day out.
Marissa Jasmine Carter (Marissa Carter) — Google review
Lovely place to visit especially during Spring!
Staff were very knowledgeable in all the rooms in the house and we enjoyed a cheese scone and cake in the tea room at the end.
We had a nice walk around the garden and will return at some point to do the full grounds as we are National Trust Members!
Abbie Trussler — Google review
Magnificent country Manor, with some great art.
Great place to walk in the gardens, around the estate, or have a picnic on the lawn. Lots of seats around where you can just sit and take in the amazing views. The tea rooms, with their tropical decor, are large with plenty of seating, and a separate dog friendly area. Staff are all friendly and helpful.
David Sherratt — Google review
Utterly charming. We visited at my wife’s insistence even though it was more than an hour away. We have a rescue Beagle with damaged paws who needs soft flat grassland to walk on. From the moment we arrived we were charmed with the lovely atmosphere. Wonderful car park lady attendant, very helpful young well spoken lady on ticketing and friendly staff at the coffee shop and gift shops. A short walk from the car park up to the house with excellent far reaching views across the Thames valley. Well worth going out of your way for. Recommended.
Will H — Google review
Wonderful day out. Great easy walks in the grounds. T room is a bit busy but the house is beautiful and the grounds are wonderful. Away from the main area on the long walk we had the place to ourselves.
John Russell-Smith (FamilyRussell-SmithTravel) — Google review
Another NT house , lots to see and discuss. Large parklands to explore and neat well prepared lawns side and rear. Large 2 roomed cafe , 1 of which interestingly decorated in Thai style. Think there's also a lake at bottom of hill but rain prevented exploration.
Warren Heath — Google review
Beautiful grounds and a lovely house. The room decorated with sea shells is especially worth having a look. The cafe is good.
Diane Severson Mori — Google review
Basildon Park is an incredible sight to see. As you enter the car park you are greeted by the friendly staff who explain the site and how to get to the house. There are sufficient amenities, toilets, a small shop prior to going to the house and some outside seating. You walk to the house through the quiet and tranquil woodlands, and as you walk round to the left you are greeted by the enormous house. The house is kept in excellent condition. You walk up some stairs for the entrance, where you're greeted by some knowledgeable staff. You are guided through the different rooms and each room has a guide to give you interesting little tid bits of information. The tea room has an array of sandwiches and hot food. We had jacket potatoes with cheese and beans, which were both really tasty and the coleslaw was incredible. We then went round back to enjoy the gardens and nature and it really does just make you feel calm and relaxed. The full experience for us took around 2 hours 30minutes. It could take longer or it could be shorter. Adult entry is £16 if you're not a National trust member. The Jacket potatoes were £7-9. A bottle of water was £3.30. The sausage roll was £4.70. There is a kids option of £5 for 5 items. So if you are a big family and eating there you may find a big bill. I highly recommend visiting especially when flowers are in full bloom.
Trish C — Google review
Good food, lots of history from the past. Elegant mansion and garden. Wide space for outdoor walk and dog-friendly
Fil-Italian Sa UK — Google review
We had a wonderful visit to Basildon Park. It’s a beautiful house with vast grounds to explore including short grass, easy access areas and trickier wooden terrain. There is a golf cart transport service if you find the slope up through the beautifully lit wooded path tricky to navigate beyond the free car park that has ample spaces. Staff were very friendly and accommodating. There is a cafe and shop on site and pleasant toilet facilities and lots of options for walks. Well worth a visit.
Beth Polak — Google review
Massive 400 acres estate with a beautifully restored house and well maintained garden. Lots of walking trail. They have tables and benches where you can enjoy a family picnic. There is also a children's playground. If the main car park is full, they have an overflow car park. They have a nice cafe with painted walls. Staff were all lovely and pleasant. When you have time, chat with them and listen to the amazing stories. The room with the silk wall is quite interesting. I initially thought it was wallpaper.
Stonehenge is an ancient stone circle in Wiltshire, England that is best seen as a bus day trip from London. It is possible to do it via public transit (train plus shuttle), by car, or via a private transfer.
The most iconic view in the middle of grasslands where the people made something very outstanding thing for the generations to believe in the stone-era. The Stonehenge was the perfect day trip where you can know how it was made that stones in well shaped without help any architecture instruments to move them. The must visit places in English land where you have to wear gloves if you want to take nice photos and one more jacket if you have not luck with wind.
Prithvi Rajput — Google review
Going to such an iconic landmark on a long weekend, in the middle of the school holidays isn’t for the faint-hearted. But we were determined to give it a shot, having been turned away from the Roman Baths in Bath because they were too busy!
Yes, there massive crowds, but still ample parking. The shuttle bus from visitors’ centre to the stones was efficient, and we didn’t have to wait long. I had heard a lot of complaints that you have to admire from a distance, but it’s a great idea!!! From a heritage point of view, people shouldn’t be allowed to climb over the stones. But from a tourist point of view it’s fantastic! If you want to take some photos it is so easy to do so without a heap of other tourists in the way. I loved it! As always, it asks more questions than it answers!
The gift shop was a pleasant surprise. There is a lot of the usual cheap and cheerful stuff, but also some more special mementos. None of which were ridiculous it expensive.
Kitty Kat — Google review
A take back to 5000 years. A must watch place in UK.. World heritage site. A pleasant view and travel back to history. If you are an English heritage or National trust member, access to this place is free. Start from the exhibition centre to know about the history and you can take the free bus from the exhibition centre to the stones. I personally loved the experience. If you are interested in the history, this is a fantastic experience for you.
Muthu Velayutham — Google review
What can you say other than this is an absolutely breathtaking site. Upon arrival there are nice facilities to grab lunch and use the restroom. That is a nice perk when you're traveling with small children like we were.
Kimberly Klinge — Google review
We booked a half day tour with Day Tours London that included a ride in an AC bus from London to Stonehenge and back. 100% recommend this UNESCO world heritage site. It's been on my bucket list for a decade and finally got to see it up close. Best to go reach early around 9am and be one of the first ones at the site if you want to take pictures. It starts getting crowded very quickly. There's a car and coach parking near the visitor's centre and then their own shuttle bus takes you to the Stonehenge site. About a 5 min ride from the visitor's centre to Stonehenge. You can check out the visitor's centre and exhibition later on your way back. There's also an a self guided audio tour through their app. It's quite informative. The stones themselves are a definite marvel to look at. The landscape is beautiful. Totally worth the ride and cost.
Some cool souvenirs in the tourist center, but the cost can be prohibitive. The exhibition is about Stonehenge and fills in some more historical details about the people that built the Stonehenge and what it may have looked like and how it evolved over the past five thousand years.
We were also lucky to catch a Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson enactment right outside the visitor's center by actors from Time Will Tell acting company. Brilliant performance about the mystery of the Stonehenge!
A M — Google review
Great bit of history to visit, the walk from the visitor centre is a nice easy saunter down a straight road for 20 minutes. No need to pay for tickets to see it, but if you buy the tickets you can get closer and take the bus there - I didn't buy the ticket.
Possibly needs better signposting for the fact you can actually walk straight through without buying anything.
Charles Brooke-Taylor — Google review
The visitor centre was lovely. All the staff were nice. And it was good that you could take a bus up to the stones. I’d definitely recommend buying tickets beforehand though. Cheaper if you buy online and you don’t have to wait in line that long. Also make sure you scroll down to the last bit of the email and download the app, it comes with a guided audio tour. Somehow we were the only people doing that however. It would be nice if they advertised that a little more on site. And I have to say some signs which direction you’re supposed to walk would have been helpful. About 80% of the people walked around the wrong way. Since a majority of the world is used to driving on the right side, you also get used to everything else being the right way around and not the left.
Coming early is also recommended, if you want pictures without other tourist on them.
We even saw Gertrude! She’s a great bustard that comes for a few weeks every year to hang around the stones and then goes back to France.
Maria-Claudia Hoppe — Google review
Most of the time Stonehenge is too crowded to fully enjoy the site, and it was the same last time I took my family there. I'm glad that this time my bf invited me for a ride around the facilities, in the evening, where the traffic is much calmer. We could admire this unique stone formation from a distance, while also enjoying some of the gravel byways nearby ☺️
Anita Walkowska — Google review
A tip in advance. Come after 2 p.m., then the rush of visitors decreases significantly. When we came back around 3 p.m., we didn't even have to queue for the shuttle, and the ticket counters were empty.
So, now to the topic. There is something mystical about it. It is without a doubt something special. I said many years ago that I had to see Stonehenge, and I have never regretted it.
Thank goodness we have Historical Heritage Membership. Firstly, the car park doesn't cost a fee, the entrance is free and you don't have to queue for hours at the ticket office. The single entrances are really expensive.
Nevertheless, you can't miss such an important site.
There are also many other things to discover around the visitor centre. Currently, in July 2022, there is a small excavation site for children.
Marcus Schuler — Google review
It's actually pretty cool. Yes, there are a lot of tourists and the entry fee seems very steep (26 GBP!) and apart from on the Summer Solstice, you can't get very close, but I still enjoyed the visit.
Brett Whiteside — Google review
Awe inspiring monument to visit, the stones are spectacular. You just have tons of other tourists to deal with, walking up there instead of the bus is a good way to go. The inevitable souvenir shop selling tacky 'Neolithic' things does cheapen the experience.
Karl Harris — Google review
Mesmerising place to visit. I was awestruck even though I’ve seen plenty of other stone circles around in UK. The stone sizes are massive. You are not allowed to go into the circle. There is a rope which keeps the visitors a good distance away from the stones and the circle for good reasons. Would definitely recommend and might visit again.
Rithvik Reddy — Google review
A must visit place in the UK. Most famous tourist attraction and the heritage site in England. Entry is free for the English heritage members. Others can buy their tickets at the entrance counters. The site is little far from the entrance counters. They are providing a bus service to go to the stones area. It is included in the entry fee. Parking is available and it is free for everyone. Toilets and the restaurant are at the entrance. No washrooms in the site. Even you can walk without using the buses. It’s like 10-15 minutes walk.
Due to the wind it’s bit cold at anytime, so make sure you have jackets on your hands. Nice environment. But since it is the most iconic place it is always crowded. You can buy tickets online and it will save your time as no need to wait in the queues to get tickets.
Natalia Krasnikova — Google review
We went there on a Sunday after seeing Bath. We got the tickets from their website on the same morning that included bus trip till the stones as well as some places in Salisbury as well. It was a pleasant journey and there was no wait time when we reached around 12 PM. It was very peaceful even though there were many tourists.
Shivangi Sharma — Google review
Great time spent. We went during February half term and there were activities for the children to try. My children really enjoyed these.
Good quality food served in the cafe.
My son really enjoyed the shuttle bus, these were very frequent.
Was not so busy we could not get an uninterrupted photo of the stones.
Emma — Google review
Experiencing Stonehenge at sunrise is truly enchanting, as the ancient stones bask in the gentle glow of dawn, casting a spell of mystery and wonder. Choosing the free path, rather than the paid one, offers a serene journey, away from the hustle and bustle, allowing for a deeper, more personal connection with this historic monument and its natural surroundings.
Ali Javed — Google review
A visit to Stonehenge is truly marvelous. Finally seeing it in person is a memorable experience. Despite the crowds on a long weekend, everything is impressively well managed. The clean toilets and the cafeteria offering tasty warm quick bites, soups, and hot drinks add to the comfort. With ample seating areas, it's a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal.
The shuttle ride to the stones is really amazing specially for those who can’t walk.
Else it’s a 30 mins walk one way to stones from the parking lot.
We booked a day tour from get your guide to avoid hassle, which has ticket included.
Recommend booking tickets in advance if visiting on your own due to long queues.
Overall, I highly recommend visiting; it's a fantastic experience.
Sneha S — Google review
We arrived at 7pm, and parked down a gravel track just off the main road and walked up to the stones on the public footpath. Lovely views at sunset, had a chat with the security guard on duty, family photos taken and a hasty retreat to the car from the bitterly cold wind.
Joanne Fenner — Google review
We arrived on a coach bus(coming from our cruise) as Stonehenge was opening. There was no traffic going there and barely anyone in the parking lots. The facilities were beautiful and blended well into the landscape. Arriving at opening on a weekday, the ticket line had no more than 10 groups waiting. The cafe was a wonderful surprise with great food and coffee options. The gift shop has a great selection of all things Stonehenge.
You can either walk to Stonehenge or take the bus from the ticket center. Super quick and easy ride. We arrived and there was a ton of opportunity to take a picture without a lot of people around.
We did see cars parked along a road and you can walk the dirt path, but you won’t be able to get as close or read any of the information provided as you walk around.
You can also see the Stonehenge from the road. There was a lot of traffic when we were leaving around 12pm.
Overall, it was a great experience. I recommend going at opening and leaving before the crowds start.
Phon Macy — Google review
This is definitely a tourist destination and they want to make sure they are capturing all the visitors they can. They create the parking lot and visitor center a bus ride away from the actual monument. You can walk, which is about 20 minutes and is recommended on a nice day. Enjoyed the videos in tourist center. Glad it was part of National Trust. Recommend getting the pass if you are in the UK for any length of time. Worth the investment.
Jim Baudino — Google review
This has been a lifetime in the waiting. This visit ranks up there amount the best. I went to the Great Pyramids two years ago and now Stonehenge. I was surprised how far you had to travel to get there. It was raining off and on but it did ruin the experience. Even if you don't like history please if you are in the United Kingdom travel to this amazing wonder. There is so much to see and do here. It is not just a pile of rocks. It is our past and our present and our future all rolled in to one experience. England is a beautiful country and should not be missed.
Timothy Wert — Google review
arrived at Stonehenge via a tour with Evan Evans tour service. we arrived about 10 am which is a great time. later the crowds are outrageous. your dropped of in the coach lot. then a few minute walk to the shuttle stop waiting time was about 15 minutes. the buses are cramed full, so if you are assistance required make the loader aware so you can get a seat. then a 20 minute ride to the site. upon arrival you'll be amazed at the history and mystical lore of the circle. although many theories are available here. I'm not convinced anyone really knows the true purpose of this site. awesome photo opportunity. had a limited time, so we made our way back. The shuttle waiting time was considerably longer so plan accordingly. we arrived back at the gift shop and canteen grabbed some knickknacks and a drink. then back to the coach. excellent site perfect place for the entire family.
Thomas Huston — Google review
Great history behind Stonehenge and is definitely worth the hype and popularity. You will need to buy a ticket or the membership which is the English Heritage yearly pass to get up and close to the monument.
There are 2 ways of getting to Stonehenge from the ticket building/carpark.
1. Take the bus which is included with the ticket.
2. You can walk there in about 20mins.
We took the 20min walk there and took the bus back. There are a couple of things to do after you have seen Stonehenge, back at the ticket area. Walk around and see the possible houses the worker lived in when they were constructing Stonehenge. You can also visit the Stonehenge exhibition, filled with it’s history.
Make sure to check the opening and closing times before heading out. Waterproof shoes would be good for a wet day and a thick coat. There are footpaths, so it doesn’t get too muddy at all.
Entry to Stonehenge closes at 3pm although the place closes at 5pm. We visited in December at around 2:30 and it was perfect for sunset photos!!
Raif & Vy — Google review
We had a majestic journey
My recent visit to Stonehenge was nothing short of awe-inspiring. As I approached the ancient monument, the sheer magnitude and mystery of the standing stones left me captivated. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of history, and the well-preserved site offered a glimpse into the ingenuity of our ancestors.
The visitor center provided a comprehensive introduction to Stonehenge's significance, combining informative exhibits with cutting-edge technology. The audio guide was a valuable companion, offering detailed insights into the history, construction, and possible purposes of this iconic landmark.
Walking around the stone circle, I marveled at the precision with which these massive stones were arranged, pondering the age-old questions that surround Stonehenge's origins. The preservation efforts and the ability to get up close to the stones added to the overall experience, allowing for a personal connection with this archaeological wonder.
The surrounding landscape, with its vast plains and distant horizons, enhanced the magical aura of Stonehenge. Visiting during different times of the day offered unique perspectives, each casting a different spell on the ancient site.
In conclusion, Stonehenge is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, offering a profound journey through time in a setting that resonates with mystery and grandeur. My visit was an unforgettable exploration of a timeless masterpiece, leaving me with a deep appreciation for the marvels of human achievement. B
Thanks
D K — Google review
This was a unique experience, we had to walk up to the site or take a bus provided by the facilities there..endless land that was scenic. The stones are magnificent to behold. Persons were at a safe distance and it had a good influx of persons for the summer. The cafeteria had a variety of things to choose from and it's a great outing
cafian allen — Google review
Much better than I thought it would be. Had an aura about the site.
You can either take the bus to the stones, or walk. Walking takes about 30 mins and you have great views of the surrounding land or the bus which takes a couple of minutes.
Good cafe and facilities in the visitor centre. I went at 1400 on a Saturday and it was very busy.
Buy tickets in advance if you can, it saves you so much time in queues.
Ryan Hobbs — Google review
We loved visiting Stonehenge, first time for my child and he loved it. Especially the village and example stone to pull. We were also lucky enough to take part in the Lego activity, which was very fun and loved seeing the finished thing on social media after.
The shuttle bus was a great idea for people who can't walk that far. We will probably book again for the special time going in and up to the rocks.
Katherine Moloney — Google review
Visited this historical landmark recently, and what an experience it was. The ambiance takes you back in time, making you feel a part of its rich and intriguing history. The stone structures are impressive, with their size and how they are careful organized. The surrounding greenery adds a layer of peace to the whole place. Despite the crowd, the information provided was detailed and helpful. Perfect place for history buffs and nature lovers. The view at sunrise is especially breath-taking.
Md Soleyman — Google review
Love the view! Well at the end of the day yeah it’s a bunch of rocks but the history behind and around it is quite fascinating. They have a visitor center with a museum, cafe and a souvenir shop as well. It’s a whole experience! They have Shuttle buses from the visitor center to the location of the Stonehenge which is included in the entrance ticket.
If you’re like me, your experience will depend on the weather, so try your best to make sure to visit there on a sunny day!
Milan Tharaka — Google review
I visited 12/29/23:
A must place to visit! History before your eyes! It’s fascinating to see how people lived back then! And the engineering they did to place those stones is amazing! If you do plan on going, plan on driving about two hours- if you’re coming from London. Once there, you will see the ticket office. Then you will proceed to their museum. They have a replica of a village they lived in (Very Impressive). Please keep in mind, the stones are far from the visiting center but they do provide buses or if you like you can walk their trail, so please wear good shoes. You can’t touch the stones, it’s been roped off so don’t plan on it. I hear that you can do a private tour that will allow you to walk around the stones but I didn’t see it. They do have a cafeteria that serves good food and snacks and they also have restroom facilities. If you are still undecided— the stones are sinking so you may never get a second chance to see them— go and check them out!
Sabino -Sal- Chavez — Google review
Thanks to English Heritage we got in for free but felt the entrance fee to be great value as so much history to see with plenty of information We caught the courtesy bus to the site as a long walk. Buses were running non stop so no waiting time. Thoroughly enjoyed our time there
Sue Hunt — Google review
If you can walk to the stones instead of taking the bus, I recommend it. It's a nice walk, and on the way back you can go through the area nearby to see ancient burial mounds.
Andrea — Google review
Lovely place full of culture and history. Do not get disappointed is a long trip for a short stay at the grounds. This place only has Stonehenge and a side museum. Is very difficult to reach by local transport. Better if you drive or take a tour. They have a restaurant, coffee shop, souvenir shop, you can’t drive to the stones you must take the local bus however you can walk 30 mins approximately. Is better but tickets in advance
Ljubica Banic — Google review
Definitely worth the trip. There's something about visiting something so mysterious that has stood the test of time, yet we still don't know what it is or what it was used for. Great energy here.
brian The one and only — Google review
What a nice day exploring ancient England . The ticket is quite pricey but we enjoyed the visit and took lots of lovely pictures. The museum is certainly a must visit as it provides valuable information about the history of the magical place . Avoid the gifts shops is very expensive
The manor house Waddesdon Manor is a famous English estate built between 1874 and 1885 for Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild. The property is now managed by the Rothschild Foundation on behalf of the National Trust, and houses some of the world's most priceless artworks as well as a famous wine cellar. The lavish home is popular with visitors for its elaborate architecture, stunning gardens, and opulent lifestyle.
The house is really grand from the outside and inside. If possible make sure you can view the inside of the house. The guides inside will give you a detailed insight to the history and all the collections within the house. The gardens are beautiful to view too. There's an aviary and stables up can visit within the gardens. I would highly recommend booking the shuttle bus to get your trip started sooner as its a long walk in.
Kalpana Vekaria — Google review
Absolutely loved this Manor House. Huge. So much to see both inside and out in the extensive gardens. All the guides are well informed and friendly, it took us almost 2 hours just to look round the house there's so much to see. Booking is recommended. The opulence of this wealthy family is stunning, indeed, Waddesdon is really a collectors house, and the family continue to add to their collection. The gardens are beautiful. There is a wonderful aviary, and a talk about it, and it's birds every day. The tea rooms great. This is an absolute dream of a place to visit. No height barriers, huge carpark. Very advisable to book/pay for the bus up to the house, it's quite a steep walk, and after 3 or 4 hours looking round it's a long walk back !!
Polly Wainwright — Google review
Lovely day exploring the grounds, the beautiful and impressive house with Christmas themes... And the festive fair.
Great food on offer from many styles of cuisine.
Clean and accessible loos
We had premium parking which was a bonus to drop off shopping half way through the day.
Simon Lloyd — Google review
I visited on a coach trip, as getting there by public transport is difficult. We were escorted up to a dropping off point near the Manor, and it was then just a short walk. We were a little early for our designated time slot, so I explored a little.
The beginning of the self-guided tour was crowded to begin with, but I lingered to allow people to get ahead of me. I found it very interesting, & the staff were very helpful & informative. I did get quite tired, especially as there weren't many places where you could sit.
I then found myself a snack lunch, followed by a visit to the shop.
Before leaving I had time to explore some of the extensive & tranquil grounds, including the splendid aviary. I was glad to see that dandelions had been allowed to grow and were attracting bees.
All in all, a very good visit.
Wendy Edwards — Google review
Lovely grounds! Gorgeous aviaries. Would love to visit when the manor house reopens. Fabulous for meetings. They took excellent care of us, the lunch consisted of fresh tasty sandwiches, crisps, and brownies. Great coffee. Will be back next year!
Cheri Crystal — Google review
Fantastic place. Great place to visit especially if want to see how the richer people in society lives.
You could comfortably spend days there. Each area was opulent with the various wall coverings, carpets, parquet floors etc..
The works of art adorning the walls are great from English and Dutch painters.
I am adding a few photos to speak a thousand words. The cellars, wines, jewellery.
The stables were great for food.
You're able to take as many photos as you like but without a flash 📸 😉.
A National trust car is a must as you will certainly want to visit more than once.
Dwight Smiley — Google review
The building and the collection is exceptional. We spent 3 hours just walking around in the palace to see everything.
It is much bigger than you thought at first look. Only the garden was a bit disappointing as the rose garden was abandoned, some plants were dead and the flowerbeds were cheaply planted.
The park is huge and lovely. It could be more pleasant if the garden could get back to the deserved glory.
B?la Valter — Google review
Most amazing place!! It's well worth a visit and the grounds are beautiful. Very well organised with large car park and visitor reception on arrival. Bus shuttle is worth paying for as you can ride it all day, as we did, to go to get out picnic. Would highly recommend and will be making the trip again soon.
Helen Wood — Google review
Very good National Trust property.
Lots to see in the manor. Gardens and grounds to walk around.
At the moment there is an art installation The Wedding Cake well worth paying to see it.
The only downside of the day was good. Or lack of couldn't get much to eat at lunchtime in both the lunch places
Chris Morton — Google review
If you are a national trust member then it's definitely a must visit place. A huge garden and equally large manor with plenty of art work to admire. We spent a whole day and will be visiting there again. Maybe a little pricey if you are not a national trust member but still worthwhile a visit. Highly recommended. Very friendly and helpful staff too.
Kazuki Endo — Google review
I was there for the winter light festival. Walking around the outside lights was awesome and well planned. Access was via the tarmac paths which were generally good but sometimes rough and in need of repair.
The private seller stalls were good offering some good wares, though pricey.
The main Hall had been adapted to reflect winter stories and themes. 🥰
Disability access to the main hall was poor due to the number of folk attending. The lift was an "antique" and restricted throughput with ques to access different floor levels.
The public access toilets were under the building down a steep curved ramp with no steps. But clean.
Access to the main house is by a transfer bus from the car park. For this event the buses were wheelchair accessible.
There were some EV charging points but I wasn't aware of these until leaving. Looks like you needed to have your own cable.
Christopher Houghton — Google review
Wonderfully to go to the Christmas market and show. Made me wish I was a little girl again. It truly evoked a magical Christmas experience. I really appreciated all the art and I am so glad that everything the buildings and gardens and the the precious rooms and the treasures seen in them are being preserved. I will return for a tour when the Christmas exhibit is over.
Liesl Knott — Google review
Got to be seen to be believed! Allow lots of time to explore the house, there is so much to see. The guides are so friendly and a fountain of knowledge so do ask them. Due to time constraints , we were only able to spend time at the house but will definitely be back. The shuttle bus is a very pleasant ride & runs frequently. Stables cafe has a decent range of food and drinks & nice to sit outside too but indoor seating is available.
Dee A — Google review
Amazing place to visit on a day trip. Got the coach up from parking spaces as brought new puppy along with us. Walked around Christmas market stalls and ate our lunch. Great day out. Would definitely recommend!!
Zane Waldron — Google review
Fantastic place. The house is a must. A display of the wealth of the Rothchilds family but if you look beyond the opulence there is some fascinating exhibits. You will need up to 2 hours for the house. The gardens are lovely and very manageable but with some hilly parts. Book the house in advance and if your budget can stretch to it use the premium parking adjacent to the house. Worth the National Trust membership.
Ian Kemeys — Google review
My kids loved visiting this place, it starts with a bus ride so it is a winner from the start. Has a lovely rose garden, and an aviary also has a huge playground with a big slide. The house is very interesting too with beautiful chandeliers.
Tinali Garrett — Google review
Fun for all of the family, or those seeking adventure!
Waddesdon Manor plays host to a plethora of sights, from adventure playgrounds; to aviaries filled with exotic birds.
This family friendly National Trust location has parking on site, with a shuttle bus service up to the Manor for just £2.50 per person or the option to trek it yourself at your own leisure.
The Manor doors are open to the public, offering a glimpse into its past with iconic paintings, tapestries and furniture.
A National Trust to tick off for sure with accessibility for all!
AT.
Adam Turner — Google review
I love everything about this location, the gardens lovely with the fountain and flowers, the house is absolutely lovely with all the old fashioned stuff/rooms, and the current art exhibition that is on at the gallery! I couldn't miss that! Absolutely amazing 🥰
Joanna Frank — Google review
Lovely day out. The building is beautiful inside and out. The gardens are stunning, and it was lovely to see the aviary with the different birds. Food was reasonably priced. (Sandwich was £4.95) There is a restaurant and two outside cafes. One by the shop and the other at the stables. Lots of wasps around! It's definitely worth a visit. The building itself is not that old, but the collections inside have some interesting stories.
Jennie Davey — Google review
wonderful place. excellently organized. There is a large parking lot which is far from the house - but there is a private bus transport - which is absolutely available to go faster. All the staff are absolutely friendly. The ticket price is affordable and worth it. An unforgettable experience, especially if you are lucky enough to have good weather to enjoy the gardens and park. Have a picnic and a walk. There is a cafe with sandwiches and hot and cold drinks. Normal for such a place prices. I recommend Absolutely. I would visit again in better weather. only I didn't see an EV charger. It would be nice to have one./but I haven't asked the staff/.
Tscetomira Petkova — Google review
Went for the Christmas light display and to see the house decorated for Christmas. Tickets bought in advance. It was absolutely beautiful, lovely walk around the grounds, Christmas market on site, spent about 4-5 hours here. When booking I paid £30 for Premium parking, I thought I had to pay to be able to park but there is actually a huge free car park onsite, which we parked in. Had to then go back down to move the car. No signs to tell us this, only found out when our tickets were scanned. I wouldn't have paid the parking but when booking it looked like I had to. Overall a beautiful place, loved our day there.
Clare Sheppard Gale — Google review
Stunning property inside and out. Went for the Christmas illuminate and craft fayre was a good selection of stalls. Inside was decorated beautifully with a children's book theme but the star of the show was after dark when the property is lit up.
City Girl — Google review
This amazing neo-renaissance manor was donated to the National Trust by the Rothschild family and is an incredible example of French architecture literally from France. Art lovers will love what is in store inside and, as with all National Trust properties, the knowledgeable stewards are always keen to keep you informed. There are two cafés and one restaurant on the estate as well as a kids' playground. Parking is plentiful and you have a choice of a 15 minute walk (with quite a climb on the way up) or if that is too much for you, regular shuttle buses are provided for a small fee. Highly recommended. I will be visiting again!
Matt Smith — Google review
Gorgeous place to go! There's a shuttle if you need it and lots of parking. The grounds are absolutely beautiful you can explore for hours and find lovely sculptures on your adventure and a brilliant play park with everything the kids need to be kept smiling! There is a lovely cafe and shop and usually something on in the shed
It was Easter when we went so there was lots of Egg-cellent games and activities, all free, except face painting which was a fiver. The house is stunning and filled with treasures and art and decorated beautifully, very impressive. Its absolutely lovely here, you must visit!
Clare Tanner — Google review
An amazing Manor House, beautifully built with fine detail on the outside,not unlike a German Fairy Palace, telling a fantastic story of its history and People.
What a fantastic, unique experience.
Thomas Overbeck — Google review
Definitely worth a visit. Lovely grounds as well, the restaurants are the best though. But a great day out in a splendid national trust location.
Mike Harmer — Google review
It's very remote, but so incredibly pretty. It almost seems like something out of France. It is possible to get here by bus, but I wouldn't recommend it as the journey is far from easy. If you are a K3G fan, this is really a must-visit place. I would advise in the summer when the manor is fully open. It's got a really good shop, too, worth checking out the wines. Keep an eye out in Waddesdon town/village as well, it's got amazing architecture.
Yogen Mudgal — Google review
Beautiful house & gardens. Well worth visiting. Shuttle bus available for those not want to walk from car park to the manor. We enjoyed the walk, it's not far but slightly steep towards the approach to the manor. Long queues for coffee. We found the cafe at the stables had a much shorter queue. Stunning views.
Maureen Vallance — Google review
Beautiful house and gardens owned by the Rothschild family, ergo all cafes and the shop are extortionately priced as it seems the Rothschild family don’t quite have enough money already. That being said, still worth the visit and to learn the history of the place.
Ollie Calcott — Google review
Stunningly beautiful architecture & vast grounds to see. The car park is a distance away but thankfully they do run a shuttle bus to drop you closer to the manor house. A lovely day out
Claire Dragon — Google review
Attended for the second year in a row for the Christmas event and we weren’t disappointed.
The house looked incredible inside, such attention to detail and the volunteers were so friendly and helpful.
The light trail was lovely as ever (and our 2yo loved it too!) and the Christmas markets were great.
The only slight issue is getting the bus back from the stables was almost impossible as it was always full from the Manor but it wasn’t a problem as we just walked back to the car park (15min walk downhill) - the staff were really reassuring that we would get on a bus though but we had to get back.
Caitlin Alborn — Google review
Amazing place! Well worth a visit. Grounds are immaculate, food in the cafe was really good and the wine tour…! Can’t praise the young man who took the tour enough. He was very knowledgeable and you could tell he clearly enjoyed his job! The two ladies who were with him deserve praise as well. Very friendly indeed. Can’t recommend this place enough.
Su Adams — Google review
Waddesdon Manor is stunning and includes an extensive collection of artifacts throughout its Victorian rooms. I particularly enjoyed the smoking room with its leather ceiling, the morning room with beautiful paintings and desks and the impressive dining room. The house also includes an amazing collection of artwork including pieces from Gainsborough and Joshua Reynolds.
The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, providing informative insights throughout my visit. The information booklet was also comprehensive and worth the price.
I used the Waddesdon Manor app during my visit, but it definitely needs some improvement and the WiFi wasn't very good on the day. The pause, play and rewind buttons didn't work well, and the overall design could be simplified. Additionally, it would be good to get more information about individual artifacts directly on the app.
Beyond the house, the grounds included highlights like the bird collection, where I could actually see the birds, and the beautiful parterre. However, I felt the Tay Bridge was over emphasised on the map and I was disappointed not to access the "wedding cake" without paying more.
The bus system was excellent (definitely worth buying at entry) as it offered a frequent service.
As for food, the sausage roll and beef pastrami roll were delicious. I do wish there was a separate ice cream queue to reduce the wait time for those only wanting food and drink.
Overall, Waddesdon Manor was enjoyable and good value for money. If you're a fan of history, art, and beautiful architecture, it's well worth a visit.
Ernest Pawlowski — Google review
If I could give it 6 stars, I would do so without hesitation. We loved every minute of our visit. We came early but only managed to see part of the collection as there was so much to see and admire that time ran out much too fast. Beautiful grounds, lovely café and transport option from the parking to the manor for a decent price. We will definitely come again.
Bletchley Park was the site of World War Two code-breaking, and today it's an important heritage attraction with a good museum.
A great exhibition of life behind the scenes of the propaganda machines of the world.
Regardless of your thoughts on a war, this is a great story of humans solving problems, interactive, informative and worth a days ramble around the site.
We'd just like to thank everyone for an outstanding day, my daughter bought a Virgin Experience ticket for myself (I have been trying to get here for the last many years), we popped in at 12:00, bought a guide book (which turned out to be back to front, I liked that more, followed the form of Bletchley), we then left at 17:10 (apologies), our guide was amazing, informative, humorous and got the group working, 14:00 tour, 24/03/21.
We were so pleased that Bletchley Park staff/volunteers all seem to enjoy their work and it is noticeable.
Thanks again for a great visit.
Leon Hellyer — Google review
It was my first time at Bletchley. The history was fascinating. The tour guide option is worthwhile as it is a confusing array of buildings although a map is provided. There were lots of interactive displays and lots of personal lived experiences narrated. I was surprised at how well maintained the house is with lots of arts and crafts designed woodwork, ceilings and plasterwork. The cafe was pleasant and efficient too. Well worth a visit.
Maria Catterick — Google review
Absolutely amazing day. Very very interesting place, all the staff and volunteers were great, filled with loads of passion and knowledge and willing to share all of it. 5hrs it took to go round and I will be visiting again to learn much more. I thank all the staff and volunteers for keeping this history and memories alive from the gate on the way in, through buying the tickets, all around the the park, the restaurant (hut 4) the shop and on the way out. I will remember today forever.
Steve Lee — Google review
A really fascinating place to visit, more of a focus around the Enigma machine of course. We found that unlike other war museums there is less here about uniforms, weapons, medals etc which is a nice difference.
We visited on one of the hottest days in summer, so some rooms/buildings were incredibly hot. It goes to show the kinds of conditions they would have been working in at a time of war too, humbling.
I also particularly liked the art exhibition focusing on data. There were a few that you could contribute to.
Lots of green spaces, so great for a picnic if you bring your own lunch or snacks.
Acacia — Google review
An excellent day out. Hard to believe we were there from opening time (10am) until closing time (4pm). Worth signing up for the free walking guided tour (outside). The headsets cover much of the same. Walking tour lasts for about an hour. Lunch in hut 4 - pretty good selection. A lot to see and your tickets are valid for a year to return anytime. Free on site parking or train station a couple of hundred metres away.
Chris — Google review
The tour guide gave us a very interesting view of the place and the story, which is always welcome. The family audio guide for children is welcome but not enough to keep them interested, despite the embedded games. Maybe some scoring board system or progress bar would have helped -"getting hired as a secret agent" thing. The interactive screens scattered in the huts do a far better job at keping them interested.
Kyr B — Google review
Loved our visit which has been known a must visit for ages. We arrived @11am & left 4 hours later not having seen all the exhibits. Some will br more useful than others data capturing is not my thing but loved being in yhr place where history was being made. We tried out hut 4 cafe for lunch..very tasty & also the free guided tour. It would be helpful to explain the guided tour is just outdoors not around the exhibitions & and for us it was a bit long winded & too detailed. Looking fwd to the new exhibitions they are planning and will definitely return. Highly recommended for junior school kids & upwards.
trish morgan — Google review
Wow what a historic place! 😲 Far bigger than I thought it would be. Spent six & a half hours walking around the grounds and exhibits. Still didn't get to all of it! Staff were great a very knowledgeable. Great place to visit if you like WW2 history 😀
IAN CONNER — Google review
Bletchley Park was the UK biggest secret during WWII. It still remains one of the best secrets as a place to visit.
If you thought the movies were good you really need to visit Bletchley and see how really amazing the truth actually is. It is totally staggering what they did in those small huts.
But what is great about Bletchley in 2022 is that they have restored the site, and kept the 1940’s feel of the whole site. Everything from the huts to the cafes and toilets are in theme. There are lots of video, interactive and information to make it a great visit.
As other people have said keep the tickets, they are valid for a year. It may take 2 or 3 visits if you want to read everything.
One of the best sites in the UK to visit, even my partner who hates “war stuff” loved it.
Ian Francis — Google review
Attracting visitors from all around the world, Bletchley Park has something for everyone, from absolute novices who don't know anything about WW2 to certified expert military historians. You can have the self guided tour with headphones and commentary in different languages, or pay extra for a human guided tour, which is probably going to be the best experience. There are original enigma machines, along with replicas of various other code breaking devices. The site isn't too big, so you can walk it all. There are lifts / elevators next to most staircases and access ramps everywhere, too, so older visitors are looked after. There is an impressively sized gift shop, with almost everything you can think of, including Bletchley Park gin, beer, puzzles, t shirts, etc... there are a few cafes, indoor and outdoor seating and picnic tables. The short movie clips they play in the cinema room are very informative and well put together, and the original huts with 1940s furniture are particularly impressive. There's plenty of parking and lots of staff on hand to help.
Paul Garner — Google review
Lovely historical building, absolutely a must visit for anyone with an interest in the Enigma machine, and the first ever built Alan Touring world computer. This is a fascinating place that transcends history with the great display of artifacts used during WW2. Highly educational, and a great day out for anyone. Open Monday to Sunday, from 09:30 am to 17:30 pm. Paid parking available, wheelchair access, and friendly staff. Highly recommended.
Giulio Marino — Google review
Good day out with friends and family. If you get there when it opens and leave when it closes there is loads of history on codebreakers and enigma to see. There is a cafe, pond and all the machines that they used. Some of the machines are interactive with lots of touchscreen tablets so good for young children. (Under 12s go free).
James Coop — Google review
Visited on a Sunday and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Arrived as it opened at 9.30am and no queues, was recommended to take the included 1hr tour of the grounds with a guide (book at the information desk) and that was really informative.
Cafe and restaurant on site, food was very tasty with reasonable prices (London influenced?) and in the end we spent over 6 hours there. Believe we saw most of not everything but you could definitely spend longer there.
Great thing with the tickets is that within the next 12 months you can return again as many times as you want, so excellent value.
Ian Saxton — Google review
If the allied code breaking exploits during WW2 is of interest then this is the place. Lots of information about code breaking with interactive exhibits sprinkled in. Options of going along the guided talks or going solo. If you chose the latter, don't forget to pick up one of audio description packs (you can bring your own headphones if you wish). A great day out for the whole family.
ifeanyi nwabueze — Google review
Went on a school trip, Amazing visit. The mansion and huts really make you feel like you were one of the code breakers. The vehicles were very interesting, you had some which were used during working hours, then you had one caravan used in the 2000's. Would visit again.
Ashton Hegde — Google review
Overall, it isn't as good as it used to be, because Colossus is no longer included as an exhibit and they didn't make this clear at all. Also, the Winston Churchill room no longer exists.
They have improved what they do have, including a very good video when you walk in and a cinema area with another good video.
£7.99 for the bath ducks in the gift shop is a rip off, but other items in the shop were valued okay.
The children's playground needs some more items. It would also be good to have learning material in the museum for young children.
Paul Richardson — Google review
I had a really great experience. The site was well kept, lots of good modern exhibits, guided tours by volunteers and generally a lot of WW2 history. There is a play park and eating areas too. The tickets are valid for a year allowing for return visits. Well worth a visit.
Stuart Nibloe — Google review
A very immersive experience. So much information about very dedicated people with pictures around the buildings making it more personal . A lot to see and interact with . There are facilities to eat and sit down. Benches outside around the lake are a welcome break from the huts. One can only imagine what an 8 hour shift was like ! A lovely day out 😊
Anne Stachurski — Google review
Visited on their 1940s weekend, it was really nice to see and hear all the different period clothing and gear. Bletchley Park as a museum was informative and interesting but not my cup of tea. Felt it was like reading an uninspiring textbook, very knowledgeable but rather tedious which, is why I suspect the ques for the few interactive exhibits were long.
Joseph Pinter — Google review
Very interesting place of historical significance. If you already know the history there isn't that much more to learn, and there is a lot of repetition. It's still great to see it all in person. Do follow the suggested order on the map, it really helpful and goes in a good order to understand the timelines.
Sadly, It's a bit on the expensive side and the food is very pricey so maybe bring a picnic and sit by the pond, it's a very charming spot.
I think very young children might not enjoy it but slightly older or teens may find it diverting enough if they like museum. There are lots of interactive displays dotted around. We spent about 2 hours here, so wear comfy shoes.
Rx Frost — Google review
We had a great day at Bletchley Park! Even the security were happy and informative. All the staff were really helpful and polite.
We went on a tour which was 1 hour and it went so quickly, his name was John. An hour wasn't long enough tp talk about all the amazing things that happened there.
The exhibits were interesting, some were interactive. I liked the fact it told you how long until the next showing of a clip or movie. The D Day movie was great.
Pros: great day out, good shop, informative tour guide, good facilities.
Cons: expensive food (no peas, as they run out!), I'd like to see more of the mansion set up to how it would have been,
Overall a great day out and you get visit as many times as you like for 12 months after your visit which does include some events.
Sam Smith — Google review
So much history so many unsung heroes and so little time. I was a bit time poor today but really wanted to visit this bastion of WW2 secret war winning legend. I got a taxi to the Park from Milton Keynes Central station with a quick stop at the hotel on the way. Driver agreed to pick me up there 3hours later and I was not disappointed. It is only a short walk from Bletchley station however and not much more from Bletchley Town Centre. This venue is very wheelchair friendly and is packed with information. The staff are incredible and go out of their way to make the visit special. As usual I spent too much in the gift shop but just couldn't resist as the items for sale are very relevant and not the usual fare. A gentle stroll around the grounds takes you through the actual buildings where democracy was saved by dedicated people who worked tirelessly to glean the intentions of the Nazis and give the allies the upper hand from early on. Without these heroes the world might be a different place today. The grounds are kept in immaculate condition and there is even a play area for the children, however on my visit many of the kids were enthralled by the interactive exhibits. A pair of older children (early twenty somethings) were having a great time trying on some of the authentic 40s apparel supplied for the purpose. Photography without flashes is welcome and the cake and tea I had in hut 4 was superb. There are guided and self media assisted tours available but I chose to go it alone as I'm familiar with the history. I would recommend this as a must see activity.
Jesse Caple — Google review
History at its best. We didn't realise how big the site was and how much information was available regarding the very important,if not crucial, work that was carried out leading up to and very much during the 2nd world war. You could easily spend two days here and still find things to read and discover. There are interactive code breaking opportunities for both children and adults, just a bit of fun for us but could well have saved lives during the war, well worth a go!!! Food was also available from a couple of sites and plenty of space for picnics if the weather is nice particularly around the lake in front of the house. Tours are available but get in early to book as they fill up quickly, if you miss those though, don't worry as a full audio guide is available and is very well put together and informative. Good disabled access too. Have a great time code breaking!!!!
shaun — Google review
The history of the site is presented in really interesting ways with quite a few interactive options along the way. The site is huge & fairly sure we missed bits 🤦 there was also work going on up at the house so it was covered in scaffolding so I'm really glad that the tickets are valid for 12 months so we'll be able to go back 📷😎
Claire Dragon — Google review
We’ve been wanting to head out to Bletchley Park for a while and so glad we finally did! What an amazing place. The code breakers did such amazing work and the curators of this museum have done an amazing job capturing this part of history. The grounds are also beautiful, even on a rainy day!
Diane Begin — Google review
Excellent experience. Very informative and well preserved and documented. You need a full day or two to get through it all thoroughly. My ticket provides a second visit, so will have to go back to finish. A self listening tour is provided.
Liesl Knott — Google review
Excellent museum - held my kids attention for 3 hours (11 and 13) which is no mean feat. The 13 year old asked to visit after learning about Alan Turing at school. The exhibits are structured in a very accessible way and there is a nice balance between human stories and the more technical story of the code breaking. Would highly recommend, book in advance, allow for 3-4 hours - there is a lot to see.
Chris Grieve — Google review
Fabulous place to visit, lots of history.
My wife took me there as a birthday present.
We had a lovely talk with Cara, the engagement officer.
Keith Foxwell — Google review
Prepare to stay all day. We arrived for our timed entry at 11pm, took a tour, and then started on the exhibits. So fascinating, didn't even notice we'd missed lunch, and then it was closing time and we hadn't got to see it all.
Will definitely be taking advantage of the buy once visit many times in year ticket.
Paolo Rosi (Paolo) — Google review
Before traveling to London, friends of ours urged us to visit Bletchley Park where Britain’s most brilliant code breakers played a very critical role in helping to speed up the end of WW2 by one to two years by intercepting German transmissions that were being sent by secret coded messages. The guides who led the tours were well informed and touring the grounds was absolutely fascinating! We took a train to Bletchley Park and the trip from London took about an hour but it was the highlight of our vacation and well worth the excursion.
Arthur Glauberman — Google review
Very interesting. History of the second world war code breakers. Phenomenal people. The site is very well kept and clean and tidy. It does somewhat lack in exhibits and furniture. Lots of empty rooms with story boards
Grosvenor Lucas — Google review
Lots to see and learn on this sprawling estate. The guides are very informative, although you do have the option of picking up your own "listening guide" if you're in a smaller group.
You can easily spend the whole day here and still not cover most things. I was so engrossed in learning about this place, I completely forgot to stop for lunch - don't make that mistake, as there's a wonderful café here
Shiraz Esat — Google review
Brilliant, educational fascinating glimpse into the work that helped end WWII two years early. Well laid out with audio and visual aids. Suitable for wheelchair access but there is quite a large area to cover if you want to see it all. Small but adequate cafe and interesting gift shop
David Hollander — Google review
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The Mansion, Bletchley Park, Sherwood Dr, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK3 6EB, United Kingdom
MK Snozone is an indoor ski slope complex offering ski and snowboard lessons, group parties and kids' programmes. The staff are always friendly and communicative, ensuring that every lesson goes smoothly. In addition, instructor Matt is fantastic - patient, calm and attentive during the lessons, he helped son reach a new level up. Additionally, Josh - who looks after the children's programmes - was also great with son.
Excellent real snow slope, had an absolutely amazing time on the snow slopes with family and friends, very family friendly atmosphere, total blast, my kids loved it too. Highly recommend this activity, you can't beat real snow slopes, however this gets you as close to the real snow experience as possible without leaving the country. The facility as a whole is fabulous, lots to do.
Our host James was great, really got involved, and made our time there safe and awesome for us all.
D Tailor — Google review
Took my boy sledding the other day and he loved it. It is like disappearing into another world, a pretty cold one, but great fun. A bit more comfort in the seated area would be great. More activities for the kids, like an arcade or a play area beyond the hamster-sized soft play would be great. They definitely have the space! Best to shop around to get kitted out, as it can get pricey!
S8Creative Ltd — Google review
I always love this place - great value and is always a fun time! Ski and boot rental is always efficient, and the staff are always ready to help. Only one small issue was that the lift kept stopping from all the beginners, which caused a long queue, however it was to be expected. Halfway through they opened up the second lift, which resolved the problem brilliantly and had a great last hour! I really recommend it for beginners or people who need to practice before hitting the slopes! Thanks for a great day out :)
Lucy Orme — Google review
Excellent support and communication throughout lessons with the friendly trainers. Most recently, instructor Matt who helped our son attain a new level up. Matt was so patient, calm and attentive during lesson. It was wonderful to see by the end of the session how far our son had progressed. As a parent that’s always really lovely to see. Shout out also to Josh for keeping an eye out for our boy 😊 he’s mentioned you a few times 😊 We drive over an hour for these lessons so it’s satisfying to feel that the time, effort and cost is justified! Thnx guys for consistently adding to our positive experiences at MK Snozone
RAF Francis — Google review
Real snow and decet size, you can have fun there, and it's also a great place for kids to learn. They have classes for children at different levels, book online. The only issue with classes is you should book in advance, you may have to wait a few weeks for a particular class. The waiting area is big and there is a cafe. You can also rent all the gear on the spot.
Pawel Matusz — Google review
Great place! Our first time skiing ⛷️ and it was great, we booked a private ski tour for beginners and can't recommend it enough, well worth the drive down from London, we will be returning to do the other levels! Thank you to our instructor, Tom, for making our experience fantastic!
Laura Rose — Google review
We really enjoyed our visit to snozone, we went on a weekend and it wasn’t too busy. The slope was wide and spacious so you have lots of room if you’re learning or perfecting your technique.
The snow felt quite sticky under the ski’s and there were a few random icy patches on the slope which can’t always be avoided but a little extra caution needed to be taken for beginners.
Fiona Williams — Google review
Good learner experience for my 11 year old. Snowboarding levels 1-4 being taught by instructor Archie. It’s a shame the teaching earlier is almost out of view for parents that attend to watch from the cafe. Facilities are great, equipment in good condition and friendly staff. I’d of preferred if the groups were maybe 4 or 5 people instead of 6 for more time to practice but it is what it is. We shall return for sure 🏂
Kevin Jeffery — Google review
Although it is not very crowded, it is very good that there is a real snow, the presence of such a place is very successful, the washbasin and dressing rooms were very clean and hygienic. The only problem was a young girl named Stephany if I remember the name of the staff. they were interested, other than that, everything was very good and successful, I can say that the price is average, but it would be nice if there was a discount😍
Mina Derin ??nar — Google review
We took our Geand daughter here for her Birthday to do sledging. We all loved it. It was the first time she had been, but we had been a few times in the past. You get 45 minutes sledging time. It's good fun. Take a spare set of clothes though, or waterproofs.
Angela Sloan — Google review
Took the boys for a two hour session on the Snow and they had a great time! Lots of space to improve their skiing.
Special shout out to Tony on the button lift, what a helpful, friendly chap- he made our day. Boys perfected the button lift so quickly thanks to his patience and help. Thanks Tony .
Emma Platt — Google review
I did a level 1 & 2 lesson which lasted 3 hours. The instructor was very knowledgeable and encouraging.
As the lesson went on he differentiated the class so that everyone was improving on what they had achieved so far. I was happily surprised at how much I developed in the time and came away with a card listing all the skills I had gained and what lesson level to try next to move forward.
All equipment was included in the price. I just needed to wear long trousers and sleeves (I wore a thin layer plus waterproof trousers and jacket so as not to get too hot when exercising).
Meryl Crooks — Google review
We have had 3 family lessons at Snozone Milton Keynes now and every instructor we have had has been great!! Super patient with both children (who are much better than me 🤪) and engaging. We all really enjoyed it and feel much more confident on the snow.
BeFit Cornwall — Google review
Brilliant large establishment for all the snow experience. Suitable for kids to adults with any experience in skiing and snow boarding. Ample parking. Very friendly staff. You get boots,helmets and gloves if you don't have your own. Great safe place to bring kids over 4 years +.
SDS — Google review
Very good a great place to get you started if you want to learn this is the place to go to. They were very accommodating we had to move our session and as it was not busy they did change it. Remember to bring gloves!!! Otherwise you have to buy some there. There is plenty of car park as the place is inside a shopping centre.
Miguel Santillan — Google review
Well managed slope to learn skiing in the UK. The rental counter and restaurant services are nice but quite slow, it took half an hour for my sandwich. Better go early enough to get the equipment, especially if you wanna grab something to eat there as well
C C — Google review
We came for our first snowboarding lesson and had a fantastic time! Tony, our instructor, was brilliant! Very knowledgeable and encouraging. Excellent value, great facilities and conditions, can’t wait to go back for our second lesson which we booked straight away!
Craig Torrance — Google review
Thought I'd try the Milton Keynes slope after visiting the Snow Dome at Tamworth many times, the size of the slopes is larger, longer and good to have button lifts over a escalator. I did feel the snow didn't quite flow as well here and mainly felt more sticky especially the lower third down you went. Possibly the chemicals used or down to the hired ski's, although saying that a friend was on his own board and made the same comment of how 'sticky' it felt.
Paul Screen — Google review
Not skied in 27 years so needed to test muscle memory
Slope is obviously not huge, and the bottom definitely flattens out a lot. Snow is a little sticky, But the skiing is worth it. Had an exceptional time skied without being rushed for 4 hours. Highly recommend it if you prepping to go away or (as my daughter did) taking lessons. She did the 8 hour plough to parallel course and I was really impressed. Instructor gradually built the technique explaining fully. End result my daughter was skiing really well ready for our ski trip
Food is a little meh in the cafe. But everyone’s we met was super helpful and nice
Price wise think it was great value. My session was £45 all in (with skis, boots and helmet). Daughter was £200 and included all equipment, lunch and instruction! Bargain !
Stuart Lawrence-Taylor — Google review
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602 Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3XS, United Kingdom
The Ashmolean Museum is a world-renowned museum in Oxford, England, which houses collections from all over the world. The museum has an extensive range of exhibits, including art from ancient Greece and Rome, paintings by famous British artists such as Turner and Canaletto, and archaeological objects from all over the world. The lunchtime set menu often features dishes themed with current exhibitions for a good value meal.
We travelled up to Oxford specifically for this museum. My Husband has an interest in Japan and it's history and my daughter is currently learning about Egyptians in school.
We booked online, entry is free, and added on the family adventure for 4 (as well as donating which I hope everyone does to help such a wonderful museum).
The adventure tablets and headphones where superb, I'm so glad we added it on. The games where extremely child friendly, we was able to play games together at certain spots and individually whilst learning about certain pieces. My only slight gripe with this was, there was a section of find the paintings, one of the paintings we was searching for had actually been removed from the room, so we spent 10 minutes wandering before a kind member of the team there helped us. The order of the games was a bit odd, first going up to floor 3, then 2 back to 3 then 2 then 1. It didn't suit us personally, so we just started at the top and worked our way down and then when we got to certain parts included in the adventure we clicked on them. This was we was seeing everything instead of just actively looking at the tablet parts.
We was here a good 3 hours and could of spent longer but my youngest was getting tired. We had a pushchair and found the lifts quite small as a family group. The blue lift goes to certain floors then a pink lift for another. Easy to get to grips of and find when you've got your bearings.
The shop was fab, bit small with a pushchair and when busy I imagine. My daughter had some books and I had the gin (which was beautiful tasting!).
We're looking forward to visiting again.
Lauren Tetsell — Google review
I absolutely love this museum. Spotlessly clean, spacious and so many interesting exhibits. Free admission but a donation is welcome. Shows arts and cultures from all over the world with some amazing pieces to admire. Clean well maintained toilets. Did not visit the cafe or gift shop so cannot comment.
Finding Balance — Google review
Fascinating place with many exciting displays. One could lose track of time viewing the countless exhibits. If a guided tour is an option then highly recommended.
Allow plenty of time to wander and discover and take a break in their cafe or enjoy a meal in the roof top restaurant.
Jacqui Phillips (Three Crosses) — Google review
Love this museum. Has the bits of history that I enjoy. This time, I spent time in the Anglo-Saxon exhibit and went to see the Messiah violin by Stradivari and 2 other of his violins. Will do it again.
Odlaw — Google review
To say there is something for everyone would be the understatement of the year.
However, if you want to know how to deal with a wicked rat-ghost, display your planetary deities, or create an incense holder with an ox sculpture then this is the place for you.
If you find the Baroque collection make time to stay awhile.
Veronica Hyde — Google review
I was so lucky to be able to photograph Sam and Ben's wedding at the Ashmolean in Oxford. The setting it absolute stunning with the wedding taking place in amongst the beautiful art work. The staff were absolutely amazing and were always on hand to help when needed. What a fantastic and quirky venue to get married at. I highly recommend it.
James Robertson (J S Robertson Photography) — Google review
This museum has a wonderful collection of historical artifacts, especially those from Egypt. The art gallery is impressive, with a wide variety of artwork to admire. You can easily spend 4-5 hours exploring the museum with your family. There's a convenient food court located underground, perfect for grabbing a bite to eat and continuing your visit.
Kaushal Kishore — Google review
Brilliant! The Ashmolean has been on my visit list for years and it was amazing.
The museum has a fantastic range of exhibits. It's a beautiful building, lots of space to take your time and not be crowded. Honestly, one visit isn't enough!
Brad Tipping — Google review
I've been in April with my daughter, we spent there half of the day. The museum is impressive, a lot of interesting things to see from different eras of history and different countries. We really enjoyed everything, but the roman statues and the Egyptian hieroglyphs really caught my eye, and another things that I loved were the Stradivarius violins.
Andreea Denisa — Google review
A spot where you could have unintentionally spent hours browsing. Even though several of the galleries were closed for maintenance, there is so much to see and it takes time to thoroughly examine collections from different regions and time periods. I reserved a ticket for a specified time slot, yet it appears that it is not quite essential because I visited on a weekday. Furthermore, the highlights self-guided audio tour, which costs only £3.6 and can be listened to on one’s own digital devices, allows me to swiftly discover the most valuable objects in Ashmolean.
Riley Tang — Google review
It's free, lots and interesting things to see from Roman times, Egypt, India, China and many more. I love this place. Worth every second of your steps. Toilet are clean, equipped with soap and toilet paper. There is locker provided (GBP1), café and souvenir shop.
imaiqah honey Kamal — Google review
Beautiful, well organised and airy museum. Entry is free, recommend to donate £10 if you lien of course.
It has rooftop coffee shop too.
Bahareh — Google review
Been there quite a few times but it never gets boring! You always find some small detail you haven’t noticed before. Good collections, even my 7 year old brother kept on busy exploring. Great activity to do in Oxford especially considering it’s free. There are toilets, cafe and a restaurant on the top floor.
Demnlive — Google review
Completely free museum with exhibits spanning the globe. You’ll see mummy’s, cast replicas of Roman and Greek statues, Asian bronze work, and so much more.
One of the gems of Oxford on my day trip to the college town.
Matty B — Google review
Free to enter. It’s kinda half museum and half art gallery. Lots to see across 5 floors and a cafe and gift shop too. Some interesting local finds as well as the usual Egyptian, Ancient Greek and Roman swag. Good way to spend an hour with the kids. You have to carry rucksacks in your hand, not on your back, presumably so you don’t swing round and knock over the priceless ming vase!
Chris Gledhill — Google review
Hadn't planned to visit but discovered I did not need to pre-book. Staff were very informative and had excellent Covid protocols. Free to enter, but please find it within yourself to make a donation!
So much to see and you could spends days in here. I had time for the the European Art section and the English Ceramics today. Plenty of information boards explaining exhibits and all cases well labelled.
Spacious cafe, lifts, toilets and £1 lockers if you don't want to carry your bag around.
Whether you've got an hour or all day, the Ashmolean is a must when you visit Oxford.
Stephen Woodman — Google review
The best museum I have ever visited. Understand this museum in in Oxford centre so being a seat of learning caters for all points of history. Clean, spacious with helpful staff. Lifts to floors, gift shop and tea room, spotless throughout lockers for your bags open or lockable umbrella stands (yes lockable) and mobile lightweight seating if you wish to study by an exhibit or rest for a while. Truly a fine place to visit. My visit was to see the Alfred jewel and was not disappointed. A must to visit while in oxford. And to top it all off its FREE. to enter, so drop in and out anytime during the day. A light and airy place not a old traditional dark and dusty museum. Nice to see the young people of Oxford and others studying inside the museum around exhibits. Gave the place such a nice feel.
codywarkite — Google review
I had a family day out & I was greeting and looked after superbly by the staff. There are many very interesting facts to learn about the world around us, may it be fiction and non-fictional. There also was a lovely staff member I know personally called Asia, and she just adds her own amazing uniqueness to the place. She organises events for the museum such as top class weddings. She definitely does her job justice.
Jackson McCarthy — Google review
My visit was specifically to see the Labyrinth exhibition, which was exceptional. The whole enormous building is full of interest & treasure, beautifully displayed and labelled. It would be easy to spend whole days there.
gb99cat — Google review
Loved this place. Such beautiful exhibits and so much history. It is good that the Ashmolean recognises some of the problematic sides to their acquisitions through colonialism and actually has a display on this. We enjoyed the juxtaposition of modern art with historical content. Learned so much here and will come back to Oxford again just to revisit this museum. Definitely worth stepping inside if you are in the area. You can spend a whole day here. You can also get a quick shot of culture in a 20 minute whirl.
Rowan Puttergill — Google review
Great museum. Really varied exhibitions and some things I’ve never seen before. Their ancient Egypt wing really stood out with actual mummies and sarcophaguses!
Hannah Alexander — Google review
Great way to spend an afternoon at the museum. Also a really cool cafe on the rooftop with a modest selection of food and drink, including a really decent afternoon tea with a vegan option! I'm impressed.
Grace Looi — Google review
Our visit to the Ashmolean museum was splendid. The sculptures and historical presentations was great to watch. You need a day to visit the museum fully. A must visit in Oxford
Thambippillai Saran — Google review
A great visit if you’re in Oxford. It is free of charge to enter as well! They have spacious lockers, clean toilets, and a shop as well. Museum consists of multiple levels and mainly focuses on the history of the civilization. They have artifacts from around the world. Give yourself at least a couple of hours to visit this place. If you’re very keen, there’s enough things to spend your whole day in it!
Milan Tharaka — Google review
Fascinating modern museum explaining the history of civilisations across the globe. Spread across 5 floors, one of which is for exhibitions (paid). Allow extra time for the WC as there's only one!
Richard Porteous — Google review
The Ashmolean Museum is an incredible collection of artefacts from all around the world and different periods of history, as well as featuring some world-class art.
It really cannot be overstated, how comprehensive the collection is. It is like a combination of the British Museum, Victoria and Albert Museums in Oxford.
And apart from the rotating exhibitions it is free to entry. We only spent an hour in the museum, but you could easily spend an entire day and then come back and see some more.
There is also a roof terrace with bar and cafe that is lovely in the summer.
A real gem and worth a visit if you are in Oxford.
Peter Hall — Google review
Completely free to enter but donations are recommended. Stunning museum with huge amounts to see over a few floors. It has a bit for every one of all ages and a must see in Oxford for a couple hours.
Robert Greenaway — Google review
Generally a nice place to have a wonder for a few hours, taking in some art and history and doing some sketching. Like most places of this ilk it closes too early and you have to pay £1 for the lockers, which you can get a token for from the shop. The Flemish section is my favourite as there are some hidden gems in there.
Caïna Verrin — Google review
Great place to visit, with a very large art collection. Definitely needs time to view everything. Planning a next visit for sure.
Ana Schaub Ćorić — Google review
A great museum that’s full of all sorts of artefacts from around the world. Free to enter most of the galleries. Lots of guides and activities going on. A good shop and cafe. It can get very busy and popular but there are always places you can find away from the crowds.
The Pitt Rivers Museum is a Victorian Gothic-style building located in Oxford, England. This museum is dedicated to the collection of artifacts from all over the world, most notably from archaeology and anthropology. Some of the most interesting items on display include shrunken heads, masks from all over the world, toys from different countries, and clothing worn by royalty. This museum is best for older children who are curious about history and appreciate quirky architecture.
Wyvern Theatre is a theater with a 635-seat auditorium that offers a mixed programme of Swindon's premium theater. The venue has been in operation since 1971 and has played host to the top names of dance, comedy, drama and music. It is still in operation today and is popular for its circus of horrors show.
What a great show we saw. Not been here in years but the circus of horrors was amazing. Thank you for keeping the wyvern theatre open to show it.
sharon lyons — Google review
We visited here last night for Sarah Millican - Bobby Dazzler tour. The weather of late has been extremely hot and the auditorium was almost unbearable. I felt like i was being slow roasted.
The theatre itself was a great size. I'd say perfect for a panto or school show.
I didn't see much in the way of disabled access although i did see wheelchair users so there must of been some somewhere.
The theatre operates a pay/order now (pre show) and collect later service for intermission drinks which saves you time trying to scramble getting to the bar!
There is a split level inside, ticket sales, cafe, small ice cream parlour. Next stairs down are toilets. Followed by more stairs to the bar, larger ice cream parlour and entry to the auditorium.
Parking outside is pay and display. Even at 9pm there were parking inspectors checking for tickets so it is fully advisable to purchase one! Cash or phone app.
Toilets inside are plentiful but during intermission there was still the inevitable line out the door! Also the toilets had steps. Unfortunately i didn't see the disabled access toilet but I'm pretty sure they would have one given that the ladies has steps inside!
Drinks are moderately priced.
All in all, apart from baking in a human oven (wish i could give 4.5 stars) it was a lovely venue.
Natalie ?BrandyBoomBoom? Holness — Google review
Love Wyvern, a small local theatre offering a great variety of shows from musicals to serious speakers. Good views from nearly every seat. Some of the seats are a little tired and need refurbishing, however, still comfortable. Very glad the theatre survived the COVID closure. Very friendly staff and good choice of drinks and snacks; thoroughly recommend the hot chocolate, very thick and velvety.
C KM — Google review
Went to see Tap Factory at Wyvern recently. Car Parking is not easy as very limited spaces close to the Theatre. Nice cafe/bar area selling good drink options. Food options pretty limited. We had a great view of the stage from our seats in the Stalls. Sound quality was very good. Staff were helpful and friendly.
Tony Zammit — Google review
The show we saw was spectacular. Haven't been here for around 2 years now, but the special effects, lights, music and actors have cheered up my day. I won't forget this show for some time!
The actors, script writers, producers and set designs go great lengths, making everything a special night out. The ticket prices are great value for the entertainment.
Peter Garland — Google review
The theatre is a bit tatty very clean but the seats need sorting. We watched cirque fantastic show the staff were very helpful and friendly will definitely go there again for the right show.
Susan Oram — Google review
Took my son here for his first theatre production and he was in awe! Brilliant place to visit and very child friendly. Thank you team Wyvern🫶
Laura Bidmead — Google review
The theatre is great, the staff are great but don't order interval drinks on their app for delivery to your seat. My beer was warm and I can only assume they prepare the orders to be delivered early and by the time you get your can of beer it's presumably been sat on the side a while to get warm.
Graham McDermott — Google review
The theatre itself has several different areas with seating to wait for a performance to start....although generally modern the bar area has an intimate feel, although drinks are pretty expensive as one would expect.
Staff and ushers were polite and very helpful. We enjoyed the Rocky Horror Show and some members of the audience had become quite rowdy, but settled down so that we could continue to enjoy the show when a member of staff had a discreet word. Well handled 🙂
Lots of fun was had and we had a fabulous time.
I saw a play a couple of months ago and although a completely different type of production I would recommend this this theatre. Lots of parking close by as well
Joy Bells — Google review
Very enjoyable evening. Watched Shape of you with my daughter and had a lovely evening. Staff are extremely helpful and friendly. Ordered our drinks for the interval to save time and would highly recommend this service. Saves time and gave us plenty of time before show started again. Not been to the Wyvern in a while but so pleased we have this on our door step. All amenities were clean. Well done, you have an amazing team.
Debbie Cutter — Google review
Very helpful staff. I went to see Keith from the Great Pottery Throw Down. The very best theatre trip ever. Front row seat. Thank you.
Jackie Paynter — Google review
First time visit.
Staff are very friendly and helpful upon arrival.
We sat in Box B, that gave a full view of the stage, and the seats were comfortable.
At the intermission, I bought drinks and ice cream from the bar. You need to queue to pay at the bar first if you want ice cream, and they'll give you a coupon, then you go to the ice cream stall.
Parking was right next door in the council car park.
Will definitely come back again.
Will — Google review
Went & watched Legend The Music of Bob Marley,, such a great night. Staff as always were welcoming & friendly & professional in getting you to your seat or behind the bar. Despite it being nearly a full house was efficient service. Keep up the good work. The performance was amazing by the singers & musicians & so enjoyable I came away on a high. Congrats to whoever booked this act well-done
Lorraine Richardson — Google review
I attended the Easter Pantomime today and was thoroughly impressed. One notable highlight was the theatre's thoughtful inclusion of Hard of Hearing equipment, ensuring everyone could fully enjoy the performance. The show itself was nothing short of fantastic, captivating the audience from start to finish. Overall, it was a delightful experience.
Kyle Johnson — Google review
Wonderful theatre, the staff are very helpful and from what I could tell the view of the stage is good from wherever you sit. Car parking is ample with an open car park and multistorey parking within easy walking distance. Support the Arts and book a ticket you won't regret it. 🙂
Gary Pearson — Google review
Such a shame the auditorium has been left to go into a place not fit to enjoy the performances seat tipping forward as if you are going to fall out, black tape all over the place on different seats where they need replacing. About time that they stop spending on front of the house and replace the whole of the auditorium. If someone in the row of seats I was sat in moved then we all moved as well. If I could give it a no start I would. The cost of confectionery and drinks is very over priced so they should spend it where needed.
Anita Cairns — Google review
Great place to visit the theatre, no frills, a bit rough around the edges but still very good. The drink prices though are hilariously extortionate, 2 bottles of beer cost us £15. I know prices have gone up....but this is Swindon.... drinks were cheaper at the Royal Opera House, and probably cheaper at a private island served to you on a platter while being fed grapes and fanned with guilded fronds........probably
Pete J — Google review
Saw navi as mj great worth the watch . Me and mum met Jennifer Batten after the show for autograph what a lovely lady. Navi didn't want to entertain fans worth watching but wouldn't wait for him .
k M — Google review
We had the best time watching the 'Mouse Trap'
for our 9th and the plays 70th anniversary. The bar was fantastic and our interval drinks were all ready for us. The staff were fantastic. If you can't make the more than 22 Steps at the front there is an accessible side entrance. The car park is so near too.
Kathryn Wise — Google review
The theatre is lovely. It's of a size that it doesn't really matter where you sit, you will have a good view.
We book a box when possible because they are very well priced.
I always order interval drinks and snacks to be delivered to my seat and they are always delivered within a couple of minutes of the start of the interval.
The Wyvern is definitely worth the visit
Deborah Drury — Google review
Decades of great shows but smaller venue with a variety of shows. You have a ace and friendly team/ show! Tickets sell outs - public figure / Tv star tours, comedians, tributes, and with variety of smaller play productions.
Tom Morcumb — Google review
The venue is on the smallish side.
There is a car park just outside which was £2 for over two hours after 6PM (£1 if under 2 hours).
My favourite band was performing there. They sound better in some other (bigger) venues, maybe something to do with acoustics.
Tickets on the phone were accepted 👍
Blenheim Palace is a 17th century, lavishly decorated stately home that is situated in the grounds of Capability Brown-designed gardens. The palace is the birthplace of Winston Churchill, and today visitors can explore its many grand stately rooms or take a walk around its sprawling estate. Blenheim is also renowned for its impressive art collection, including paintings by Rembrandt van Rijn and Vermeer.
It feels like a different experience every time you go! Beautiful architecture, amazing gardens, beautiful lake side walks, hugely enjoyable park and maze (easy to get lost in - our 3 and 7 yr old love it) - plus there are lots of amazing events - the light show and jousting are great. I also did the triathlon there and it was absolutely epic (will certainly never forget it).
Trevor Glue — Google review
Is amazing place! Huge park with so many different kind of birds! Very picturesque views! Nice to see the tree from Harry Potter movie. Place has its unique spirit. Is a nice jumping out for a half day! Definitely recommend it!
Olga Smulyanskaya — Google review
Fab day out. Bought a privilege pass so that I can visit the Palace again over the next 12 months. Went to the Flower Show (parking included). Then to the Palace, followed by parks and gardens. Definitely worth a visit as the Palace is stunning, lots of history, lots of exhibits. But 10am to 5pm still wasn't enough time for me!
Sharan Kaur — Google review
I had a fantastic time at the Halloween trail. The decorations were absolutely amazing, creating a spooky and immersive atmosphere. The kids had a blast, and the street food was delicious. We'll definitely be coming back next year for another fun-filled experience!
Mococa Mococa — Google review
We booked for the light display, a cold November evening which made the show even more magical. Excellent value for money. Coincided with the Christmas Market so we were able look at the stalls at the end of the light display. Very well organised, helpful staff. Lots of toilets. Nice shop and cafe.
Caroline Blair — Google review
My visit to Blenheim Palace was an unforgettable experience that left me with a profound admiration for this historic landmark. The palace's grandeur and magnificence immediately captivated me, with its majestic architecture and expansive gardens designed by Capability Brown. The panoramic view of the English heritage it offered was truly breathtaking.
Undoubtedly, the highlight of my visit was the enchanting display of Christmas lights and decorations. The palace grounds were elegantly transformed into a winter wonderland, radiating a festive atmosphere that was both opulent and welcoming. This spectacle provided a fascinating glimpse into how the Churchills, particularly Sir Winston Churchill, who was born in the palace, might have celebrated the holiday season. The meticulous attention to detail in the decorations was truly remarkable, creating a magical ambiance that appealed to visitors of all ages.
Besides the holiday festivities, Blenheim Palace offers a myriad of attractions to enhance the overall experience. The butterfly house, maze, and orangery are meticulously curated to engage and captivate visitors. The butterfly house, in particular, is a delightful showcase of diverse and vibrant species, set in a lush tropical environment.
Adding to the quintessential British experience, indulging in afternoon tea at the palace allows for a moment of relaxation and indulgence, soaking in the surroundings at a leisurely pace.
Blenheim Palace transcends its historical significance to become a destination that seamlessly combines history, culture, and entertainment. The mesmerizing Christmas lights and decorations create a truly spectacular sight, while the palace's numerous attractions provide both enjoyment and education. With something to offer for everyone, a visit to Blenheim Palace is a must for those exploring the UK.
Daniel Neuhaus — Google review
Good place for a day trip. I especially recommend the parks. The palace itself is good but the parks are simply amazing. You can spend an entire day in the parks. Pack yourself a picnic basket and you're all set for the day! Not a lot of options in terms of food. The cafes don't have much to offer. So I think it's a good idea to bring your own food.
At present, an exhibition is on- 'Icons of British fashion'. They have put up mannequins in every room of the palace, and I don't think the combination works well. It did not appeal to me personally because I had gone to see the palace and I couldn't even see the tapestry properly because of this. I am hoping to go back after 30 June when the exhibition ends, and hopefully I will have a better experience then.
An annual pass is a great idea. Also, they offer a discount if you travel by public transport.
Madhurima Sen — Google review
Had a lovely day out, the weather could have been a bit kinder . The staff were very friendly and helpful. I recommend you do the buggy tour of the Gardens; Alan was very informative and jovial, it was a fun experience. The Palace was impressive and the guide you downloaded to your phone was very informative although some things were out of sync as they moved things around. The girls playing the harp and the harpsichord gave the tour an appropriate atmosphere. The Churchill exhibition was very interesting with some unique artifacts.
William Foster — Google review
A fantastic place to visit. The house is magnificent and the grounds are spectacular. The staff and volunteers are friendly and informative and there are also plenty of car parks. Would recommend anyone of all ages to visit.
We went on the self-guided tour which took us through the magnificent state rooms. The rooms are extremely opulent and full of large tapestries and paintings. There’s grand fireplaces and currently displays of contemporary art.
The entrance hall itself is a sight to behold.
joshua khoo — Google review
What a fabulous day out. Could of spent a couple of days looking around its huge. Very interesting. Gardens lovely the palace enormous. Well worth the money. Definitely return.
Michael Baker — Google review
Visiting Blenheim Palace was a great experience despite the rain. The palace itself is a masterpiece of ornate and historical architecture, with its grand interior and stunning gardens and lakes that surround it.
One of the highlights of my visit was the dining room, which took my breath away. The opulent decor and attention to detail created a truly enchanting atmosphere. It was a delight to enjoy a meal in such a magnificent setting. Parking at Blenheim Palace was convenient, as there were ample parking spaces available on site. This made it easy to access the palace and explore its grounds without any hassle.
I also had the chance to visit the gift shop, which offered a range of upmarket items at good prices. It was a pleasure to browse through the selection and find unique souvenirs to take home.
Overall, my experience at Blenheim Palace was truly memorable. From the breathtaking interior and lovely gardens to the convenience of parking and the delightful dining options, it was a visit that exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend a visit to Blenheim Palace for anyone looking to immerse themselves in history, beauty, and a truly unforgettable experience.
The Hungry Foodie — Google review
What a beautiful palace and lawns. Exquisite scenery with great landscape. Quality of the build is out of this world. Amazing place to visit and spend time. Friendly and helpful staff. Very well maintained. The Gentleman who drove us on the buggy was great as he explained us the history so elegantly. He loved his job. 🙏
Ammar Niazi — Google review
Beautiful place to visit. The palace and special exhibits are interesting to explore. There is a lot to see! The grounds are gorgeous! You could easily spend an entire day just walking the grounds and looking at the gardens, fountains, and statues. Nice cafe options to eat lunch or grab a snack & drink. Fairly large gift shop with lots of goodies to take home. Wear comfortable shoes!
Alicia Adams — Google review
Beautiful place, stunning scenery and the Churchill exhibition was fantastic. The staff were knowledgeable to the questions I asked whilst walking around the Palace. Lots of lovely walks with a map so you don't get lost. Will definitely return at a different time of year to see the change in the scenery outside.
Ann Wildman — Google review
Incredible day at Blenheim Palace. The walk around the lake was beautiful. Staff were welcoming and the lads on the parking duty were doing a fantastic job trying to get the public to park responsibly and promptly. The train ride was great and even a nice walk back from the walled garden. The Adventure Playground was a huge hit with the children, they thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Exceptional pizza too! Lovely little gift shop, reasonably priced. Definitely worth the annual pass. Only downside was people touching-grabbing the butterflies this maybe needs to be monitored a bit more as lots were injured or dead which isn't nice to see.
Cherry Axford — Google review
As first-time visitors to Blenheim Palace, we found the Palace and grounds amazing. As we went on Easter Saturday the crowd was on the heavier side..
There were various activities for kids and parents other than the usual play area around the maze..
It has toy train and old aged electric vehicle for mobility support. Last train from palace is at 6pm and first train starts at 11am.
The palace has waterfall at the end of the property. It's mesmerizing and amazing to see such a beautiful view.
Vineet Tiwari — Google review
Loved it! The grounds are beautiful and kept in immaculate condition. Lots of history and different areas to visit in the ground. The waterfall and Harry Potter Tree are a must. Bring a picnic and e joy the endless lawn. Great day out for the family!
Gareth Symons — Google review
What a amazing place to visit. Loved it. Building and grounds absolutely wonderful. Tickets are a bit expensive £35 but you get a pass for a whole year. All staff super friendly and helpful. Lots of activities for kids. There was a food festival when we visited the place which was a big bonus for us. Delicious food. Highly recommended to visit.
Piotr Kwiecien — Google review
It’s a wonderful place. The gardens alone are worth the trip. The main water features (man made lakes) are spectacular and peaceful. We went round the maze. It’s great fun. If you cross second bridge you have taken the long way. The top tip is take bus for 1/3 off and book online. The pass adds to your apple wallet and lasts a year. There are lots of good opportunities, expensive and there
are cheaper in town. The privilege card gives a discount but you don’t get public transport or cycle discount.
James Naismith — Google review
Absolutely humungous and gorgeous Baroque palace grounds being a feast for nature or architecture lovers. Definitely recommend a visit when you’re around, but be careful that parking is only for people who have purchased tickets for the palace grounds, otherwise you’ll have to pay on the spot.
Walter Liu — Google review
Beautiful 17th century palace with lavish grounds and gardens around. Great for a weekend retreat into the rich British history. Expensive tickets but definitely worth it. Beautiful view of the river from the garden and I would highly recommend the butterfly garden. Nice cafeteria with lovely staff and a wide range of cakes, pastries and drinks.
Tejal Paliya — Google review
A lovely place to visit with the family. Extensive and beautifully kept gardens to wonder around. The house is wonderful and kept in amazing condition. Lots of explanations around and guides for you to ask any questions. The Churchill rooms are very interesting and informative too. If you buy one day entry it lasts for the year as well.
Kate Sinscou — Google review
Loved the Sleeping Beauty themed Christmas display. So well done. Very enjoyable. Don't be put off by it being a Disney theme. Men, women, and children will love it.
Alexandra Stride — Google review
My daughter and I visited on 16/12/23, sleeping beauty in the palace was very good. The light trail was excellent however, there are two rather steep hills that have to be climbed, for someone who has mobility issues they would be extremely challenging, I think this needs to be highlighted when making a booking. The Christmas market was a bit poor but at least you could get a hot drink and something to eat
John Gilmore — Google review
Great day out. The palace and the park are great, lots of history with knowledgable and friendly staff.
They had the icons of British fashion event on while we were there so there was extra to look at while going through the house.
The grounds were great, lovely to have a wander in the gardens and take the little train to the walled garden.
You get a free annual pass with your ticket and the events calendar seems to be full of interesting things throughout the year so I will be back again.
R B — Google review
Amazing Easter experience. The kids had the best day, jam-packed with fun. The kids playground was worth the extra cost. I would recommend bringing a change of clothes/costume for kids who may want to splash in the mini river.
Harriet Rees — Google review
Amazing Palace, endless history, stunning grounds. There's lots to do for all. Sir Winston Churchill did it for me. What a man, unfortunately we don't make them like this anymore. Become a member and enjoy the benefits. Were in fashion design, so I loved the show today. Will be back soon
mark bridger — Google review
Beautiful place to come with family! Possible to come around with the dog as well. Helpful staff to help with everything in the park. Palace is enormous bigger than Buckingham palace in London and taking breath away! Lovely view's, Harry Potter tree below the palace was a great surprise. Garden in a sharp condition; all the plants and lawn trimmed perfect as hell. Possible to use the toilets, shop to buy souvenir's, nice coffee shop with lovely cakes and hot drinks, warm inside, good to relax for a bit. Lift's for disabled around and accessible toilets if needed.
Inez Bodio — Google review
Had a great time at the Easter Eggstravaganza event, we have annual passes and come the Palace a couple of times a year. Really easy parking, plenty of things to do, we even found a waterfall we've never seen before after years of visiting! Food and drinks can be pricey so we take a picnic, usually end up buying something though!
Nathan Doe — Google review
Loved our day at Blenheim Palace and felt it was great value for money. Really enjoyed the whole experience, especially the butterfly house in the walled garden area. Would recommend to anyone and can’t wait to return in the warmer months.
Tori — Google review
A great day out. A memorable place blending history and nature. There are activities for all ages. I particularly enjoyed the spectacular landscaping and walking by the formal gardens and its centenary trees. And there is a proper maze. It is an investment but it does create happy memories!
Rubens Filho — Google review
Blenheim Palace has been on my must-see list ever since we moved to England a few years ago. They had a fashion display throughout the downstairs the day we were there that I didn’t really care for. I’d prefer to admire the palace on its own. We spent 5 hours exploring the grounds and the house. Highly recommend the upstairs tour. It costs extra but it was worth it. We really enjoyed exploring. Very fun day out!
Mariana Miller — Google review
Visited Blenheim Palace on many occasions for different events. Such a majestic and magical place to visit. This time was no exception for the Iconic British fashion exhibition. The staff here are always helpful and friendly. Good cafe with good range of drinks, snacks and small lunches. The grounds to walk around are wheelchair accessible where you can get support from Blenhiem with an electric vehicle to take you to the front entrance as most area is gravel. Not sure about accessing the palace itself as a wheel chair user. You can access both restaurants using wheelchairs. There's indoor and outdoor dining but it can get very busy. Lovely extensive gift shop and plenty of toilets. Blenhiem Palace always does great quality events. Some are extremely popular so need to book well in advance. Plenty of play area for children including a quick fun train ride. Butterfly farm has an amazing collection and wonderful seeing them fly around you. Looking forward to returning to another event here
The Royal & Derngate is a top-notch performing arts center located in the heart of Northampton. It boasts two high-quality theatres that host both in-house dramas and touring classical music troupes. The entrance is welcoming, and the bar offers excellent service to guests. The theatres provide unobstructed views of the stage from every seat, with ample space for comfortable sitting. The venue is always heated adequately, ensuring comfort during colder weather conditions.
We loved it 💕☺️
The entry tickets for the ballet show tonight were at a reasonable price (£18/pers).
However, as a parent of a child that performs on the stage, I was expecting a discount (as I had to pay for all the family including our 3y old).
Anyways, we'll definitely come back. Smart dress code is recommended ✅
Ionela Ciuca — Google review
Excellent show (Waitress)
The overall impression of the theatre was positive. Feels a little dated/worn-out in places and the seats are quite basic ( became uncomfortable after an hour or so).
The staff were friendly and professional, the toilets were clean and COVID guide lines implemented.
Mark Haines — Google review
Sally assistance hound and I attended the Royal & Derngate theatre to see 2:22 A Ghost Story for the Wednesday afternoon screening and what a wonderfully entertaining and fabulous experience it was too! Sally and I were extremely well looked after by the "ushers in orange ties" who are specifically there to help folk with special needs. It was a wonderful play. There were about 600 people present in a 1000 seat theatre. Worth the effort and cost in my opinion. Well performed. Well written plot and dialogue. I loved it! Note well that if you're affected by bright flashing lights and exceptionally loud noises this play may not be for you!
David Hugh Meagher — Google review
A theatre of the highest quality with a warm entrance at the door and 100% service behind the bar. The theatres themselves offer good views of the stage for every show and the seats have plenty of space for your sitting comfort. It is always heated well so in colder weather there is never anything to worry about and with it being in the heart of Northampton it is always easy to go elsewhere once you are done at Royal and Derngate.
Mark W Official — Google review
There are two theatres on this site. The original theatre is beautiful, the modern theatre is functional but definitely lacks the gold gilt and red velvet visu impact of the older theatre. Both are comfortable but there are stairs all over the place because the modern Derngate has been built on a slope. There are lifts for those with mobility challenges, but I admit that I struggle and I am not even in a wheelchair. I only found out that there is a disabled toilet on the Derngate main floor this week. I have been going to shows here for 20 years! The acoustics in both spaces are great. Your experience will vary according to what you have chosen to see. There is a multi-storey carpark down the (steep) hill. It is tight for modern cars. The queues to pay and then to exit can be long after a performance, so be prepared to wait. There is a closer small car park but I have never worked out how to get into it!
Kate — Google review
Excellent show last night:Lost in music.
Most of the audience having a boogie.
Bar staff upstairs at the interval were very speedy.
Avril Storey — Google review
Interesting layout for a theatre this size. Very poor ventilation, so air becomes very stale quite quickly. The ability to exit at the end of the performance is hampered by all leaving on one side without adequate exit points.
Iain Frankish — Google review
Had a great time at The Derngate to watch Alan Carr. Unfortunately you weren't able to reserve drinks for the interval but staff were quick and friendly.
Susie Bird — Google review
Nice restored small victorian theatre once home to errol flynn,good view of the stage.trouble that some people think going to the theatre is an opportunity to rustle sweetbags and snack throughout a performance. Disrespectful to others and cast alike
John Harvey duke of bermondsey — Google review
As a wheelchair user and the first time going to the theatre in a wheelchair. It was fantastic. The staff could not do enough to help, in fact they went above and beyond. Went to see jersey boys, really good. Great view and as I am 6ft 7inches tall there was plenty of space and leg room even in a wheelchair. It's worth noting the theatre here have their own access scheme here for wheelchair users. The foyer and bar areas are lovely and spacious and modern . Top marks to the lady who came to check on us throughout the evening. You were fantastic. Will be going back here to the derngate again.
Gareth Grylls — Google review
Went to see Murder in the Dark on Saturday 21st October. The play was absolutely brilliant & well worth the money, with all parts being played extremely well.
Staff on the night were friendly, cheerful and very helpful.
All round, an excellent evening. Thank you Royal & Derngate!
Caryll Comley — Google review
Brilliant show. Well organised with different doors for entry so you didn't have to queue. However our door was C so we had to walk a way to get there and didn't know this until we got an email the day before and as we hadn't been before to door C we didn't know how far it was. Would not be great for more senior people who aren't 100% steady on their feet.
sarah spalding — Google review
Love this venue. Parts of the building were closed off for safety measures, but still a lovely atmosphere.
Clean and friendly vibe.
We saw SIX on this occasion.
Terrific show, great costumes, lovely 'feel good' punchy, songs. Funny, girl power view of history. (A bit 'Horrible Histories' for women)
Wonderful cast.
Good service for drinks, multiple bars open.
Caroline Benham — Google review
Came to watch the elo show, it's been ages since we've been and we had such a fun night! Clean loos and pleasant staff made this a good night.
Cheryl Russell — Google review
Fabulous family show.
Went to the SEN showing , didn't notice anything different really.
Cast introduction of their characters was excellent at the beginning of the panto.
Great production.
Creena Jones — Google review
A lovely theatre, with a wide variety of shows. Because of the issues with the concrete, parts of the venue are closed, which makes it a slightly less pleasant visit as you go in the back way to some areas. Enjoyed Snow White (panto) and Six (musical) recently. The temporary toilets near the entrance to the Filmhouse are tiny, so use toilets inside the theatre if you are able.
Sarah Docker — Google review
Our visit was to see Elio Pace and his band Billy Joel Songbook. We had seats in the stalls where it started to tier. The view and sound was great.
The age of the venue shows, as my seat had a large colour matching patch to cover a worn area on the front edge.
There were plenty of venue staff to serve you quickly at the interval. The queue and wait for the ladies was reasonable, as there were an adequate number of them.
The only negative experience of the night was having a bunch of keys jangled in front of us by a member of venue staff. Presume this was her way to encourage us to leave at the end of the night, whilst we chatted in the bar area with some of the band members and fans.
Julie N — Google review
Very good show, it's a bit crowded with the restrictions in place at the moment.
Parking though is becoming a joke and is off putting at the end of an enjoyable evening
Poems for the Journey Sandra J Riley — Google review
The first show since reopening (having been closed because of RAAC). Obviously there are some difficulties caused by the main entrance still being a construction site. But largely, this was handled very well by the staff. Some improvements could be made to the logistics to the temporary arrangements, but on the whole things ran smoothly.
The show was great and the facilities are good.
Tim Dawes — Google review
4.6
(3720)
•
4.5
(1122)
19-21 Guildhall Rd, Northampton, NN1 1DP, United Kingdom
This family-friendly park has a large area for getting up close with 260+ animal species, including lions, rhinos, zebra and giant anteaters. The park is open on weekends only until Thursday 10 February 2022, but regular opening hours resume afterwards.
Lovely park! It's well laid out and presented, with lots of interesting animals to see. It's a good size too - Easy to walk around, though there is also a little train that you can hop on if you prefer (which was quite a popular option).
The restaurant serves quite basic food, but equally, it's all you need really to replenish - I noticed a lot of people brought their own picnic kits with them, which I'd definitely consider for next time!
Really enjoyable day out. 😊
Kendall Bull — Google review
Love this place and have visited for many years. Getting in was a palaver as it took longer to get from Burford roundabout than it did to get the there from Oxford! Some information via social media would have helped. We had no idea why the queue was so long and as we had already purchased tickets we waited. Once in the park you weren't aware of how busy it was unless you wanted food/ drinks /toilet. If you wanted the train you'd be better off later in the day as the queue was insane. Everything was pretty much as I remembered. I didn't quite understand why they had closed off one end of the walk through bird/wallaby /tapir enclosure? It made it a bit of a trek to walk back out again instead of simply adding pads to the exit. Especially as the entry ones had dried out. That was the only disappointing part of the place. Many animals weren't there and the ground around the wallabies was dry and simply mud. Overall its a great value day out. Take a picnic and be prepared to wait a while to actually access the park. It's a great place to visit if you have limited mobility as it pretty flat with good pathways.
Lisa Dunn — Google review
A great day out for the whole family. Very well laid out with plenty of facilities around the site. Beautiful landscape and a wide variety of natural enclosures containing a wide variety of fascinating animals. Saw the penguins being fed with a free talk about them which was great. Large play park for kids and a decent restaurant with a good selection of hot and cold foods. Well worth a visit.
Sumpop — Google review
Visited during the school holidays and was expecting the place to be completely packed with families everywhere when I saw the huge amounts of people going in...but this was not the case once inside. The park has lots of open spaces and ample benches for those in need of a rest, which is always welcome when running around after kids!
The train is a great way of seeing the site and a number of the larger animals, but be prepared to queue!
Food and drinks were reasonably priced and of a good standard (the sausage rolls were especially tasty!)
Overall, we spent the majority of the day there but didn't get round to seeing everything, probably as a result of the large play park which kept the kids occupied for ages.
Chris Green — Google review
Honestly an amazing zoo/park. So much for kids to do also. Probably one of the best zoo’s in the UK. The train is well worth catching a ride on as it takes you round the entire park. The kids park is absolutely brilliant however as always with these places the food is terrible. Nothing changes here its horrid. We have been 6/7 times now and just take our own lunch with us. I have no issue spending money on food but it needs to be good food. Such a shame they dont cater for people who like something other than frozen beige food…. But its normal at these types of places. Would be 5* if you could get a nice lunch
Jason “Randall” Randall — Google review
Amazing place I will keep coming back to over and over again. The only downside for me is the restaurant options - very low quality food served, both cold and hot, I would recommend taking a picnic with you, and just get an ice cream there, excellent choice of Kelly's ice cream!
Slightly cheaper tickets if you book at least a day before, ample parking, good facilities, excellent staff, animals looks very happy and well cared for.
Julia Byul — Google review
Really great place to visit - highly recommend for all ages. Large enough to comfortably walk around and see everything. Small train as well which is perfect for the kids! All the enclosures are very well maintained and all their residents are more than happy to pose for pictures! A real gem of a place.
Karen Ballantine — Google review
Such a nice zoo.
Booked online, was straight forward. The lady asked for the code to retrieve tickets. It’s quiet busy but the queue is going quickly. Massive car park!
The itself is very clean, plenty of greens and dog friendly! Some places inside do not allow dogs.
Perfect for families.
Rhinos, giraffes, you name it.. the animals were in good health so I assume that they are taking good care of them!
Beautiful getaway. Fascinating creatures!
Zaid Hassan — Google review
Fantastic place to visit for the day and set in a beautiful location. I've never been somewhere where you can get so close to the animals! This place feels so much more natural than a zoo and is clearly looked after. The price is well worth it and actually on the cheap side in my opinion, I wouldn't mind paying more for entry and I'm sure it would help out so much! The main restaurant was a fair wait at lunch but there was a huge selection of homemade food and the staff were brilliant. Special mention to the lads clearing the tables as they were working so hard but going out their way to help others at the same time 😊
Sion Bartlett — Google review
Never been to a Wildlife Park like this one. Especially with allowing people to bring their own dogs. Different. The way it's laid out is so easy going & not herded in one direction. The gardens are gorgeous & well looked after. Bring a picnic!
Quinte Mohawk — Google review
Really great day out and loads of different animals to see. Best thing is you can take your dog. We go to see all the animals with her except for the reptile house but if your in pairs you can go in one at a time . Plenty of parking available and facilities.
Ste — Google review
What a lovely park. Extremely clean and tidy. Big car park with disabled parking right next to entrance. Right from get go from the ticket office to gift shop were Extremely friendly and helpful. We were by giraffes and daughter had her assistance dog with her and I asked a lady who worked there if assistance dogs were allowed into giraffes and she said sorry I don't know I'm just a gardener. I told her that's a great job and was doing a great job helping to keep the garden's immaculate and offered to check. All the gardens were great. There are still lots of flowers to see blooming. There is a massive play area for kids with a huge tree house and a smaller one for younger children. A big rope bridge . A big pyramid climbing frame and lots more to do. The cafe area was nice and clean and lots to choose from. Chicken chips and beans were great. Good portion and jacket potatoes were tasty. Lots of seating with a big glass enclosure with animals in there . Gift shop were stocked well also. It will be great to take the grandchildren there next summer in better weather.
patrick bartlam — Google review
Always a wonderful experience. All the animals are happy, well fed and cared for. The grounds are kept in immaculate condition. Just a great day out. We love it!
Jessica Ganderton — Google review
Truly wonderful place to visit and the best part you don't have to leave your pet dog home alone or tied up in a kennel as they are welcome here. The animals all look well looked after and many are in open enclosures not cooped up in tiny cages. Plenty of places to just stop and sit and let the world pass by while you soak in your surroundings. Easy toilet access as well as places to get refreshments if you choose. Plenty of picnic areas as well and ample parking.
Bee S — Google review
This was our first visit, and it was so lovely. We will definitely return. I love that everything is more or less outside. We took a picnic (strongly advise) as you can go back to your car as much as you like so you don't have to carry it around with you. There are plenty of grassy areas for you to have a picnic and also benches.
We visited Easter Saturday, and it was busy, but not uncomfortable. The children's park area was probably the busiest area we saw/briefly played in.
We would have liked to have a ride on the little train but the wait time was just too long for us (30 minute wait with 3 young children probably not the best 😅) so maybe next time that should be first on our list!
All in all the animals were great, got to touch/stroke a snake too. 🐍 And it was a wonderful day.
Char W — Google review
We went mid week during the school hols and it was packed, this is not a problem though as the park is huge.
I'd recommend taking a picnic as food queues are long during peak times.
Its a beautiful day out, the flowers and plants around the park are stunning.
The animals appear really well looked after and the little farm park area where children can touch the goats, rabbits, guinea pigs, ducklings, etc is really cute.
There is a little train with stations around the park that you can hop on and off of, it toots and the kids absolutely love it.
If you want to wear your kids out, this is the place to go.
Kim Large — Google review
It’s a great wild life park.
We visited on May Spring public Holiday- nice sunny day. It’s strongly recommended to book tickets in advance as the online tickets are £2 cheaper. The place has ample car parking place- shouldn’t be a concern.
It’s home for variety of animal friends all across the world.
There is a recreational train that circulates the park is a fun ride.
Lot of food options available. Would recommend to carry a Mat, as it’s a good picnic destination as well.
SaiKaT Saha — Google review
A fantastic day out, lots to see and the grounds and gardens are absolutely beautiful. The whole place is immaculately clean. Lots of picnic areas and benches to sit at to just sit back, look and enjoy.
A wide variety of animals to see...
A must is a visit to see the penguins at feeding time...most entertaining...and seeing the rhino's in front of the stately home was amazing...would definitely recommend. We spent around 4 hrs or so here and would definitely say is a full day out if you don't want to rush and sit and have a picnic
Gaenor Clarke — Google review
Very Beautiful and picturesque location for this lovely Wildlife Park. Lots of different animals, insects, reptiles and birds to see and a couple of enclosures where you can get up close to some also. Large picnic areas and cafe, plus snack kiosks situated around too. A small train also takes you across some of the park. The gardens are exotic and also feature lots of different flowers and plants. Not a big range of larger type animals but an admission price for under £20 for adults is a real bargain for what you do get to see.
Paul Wiley — Google review
Great day out, we really enjoyed it. Lots of animals to see, beautiful grounds. Areas to have a picnic. Ample parking too! We were excited to see the giraffes and rhinos. I was also looking forward to seeing the red pandas but unfortunately they were hiding in the trees when we visited.
Zaibs — Google review
What a wonderful place. The grounds and gardens are beautifully laid out and superbly stocked with plants of all sorts. The the animals are well cared for and have plenty of space. We were delighted to see baby rhinos. There's interesting information about each one. You can walk round or take the little train
The cafe and shop are well stocked and extremely clean and all the staff are hands on and extremely friendly and helpful. The cafe food was fresh and varied.
There are picnic places all round and we were able to take the dog. Incidentally the ice-cream kiosks around the grounds sell doggie ice cream. However I'll be going again without him so we can spend longer. Understandably there are areas dogs can't go so we had to alternate who went in. To sum up its an hour and a half journey from our home to this beautiful destination but so worth the trip. It was our first visit but we'll be frequent visitors from now on. Can't wait to return.
Ros Shepherd — Google review
Came here on an educational trip and BY far the best out of the zoos we visited that term. Enclosures are well thought out and animal welfare is definitely at the forefront of this zoo. Also DOG FRIENDLY. Which is a huge bonus!!
Lauren Coakley — Google review
Was pleasantly surprised by the size of this place. Ample parking, didn’t feel too crowded even during summer holidays, regular toilet stops, great selection of animals (better than London Zoo in my humble opinion), large enclosures for animals, lots of shade and picnic areas to eat, fun train for kids, play area and obstacle course for kids.
Overall an enjoyable place to spend a day for adults and children.
Only downside is the toilets were not in form. One baby chasing had no lock and smelt really bad (in the restaurant).
Restaurant food was tasty but portion size on the small side.
Artful Traveller — Google review
We absolutely love visiting here, especially with it being super dog friendly! My boys fed the giraffes on our last visit which was such an amazing experience! The lady in charge was fab with them both, full of knowledge and answered all their questions. The food is nice but very pricey. Lovely gift shop too.
Amy Henshall — Google review
There are so many things to like about this venue, even before talking about the animals. The venue sells out quickly due to restricted numbers as a result of grass car parking issues for the overflow, which gives the feeling that the Park is busy but you have ample room to move around without being on top of other visitors. I have never been to a Wildlife Park where you can get so close to the animals (see photos); this is very interesting for both adults & children alike. The Park is neither too big nor too small, nothing is really far from anything else & you don't get tired walking around. There is a good outdoor play area for the children & a good restaurant/cafe should you not have brought a picnic. Remember to take a ride on the train (extra £) to complete the day out. Although there are maps of the Park located at various point around the site, my one criticism is that there is a total lack of signposts anywhere to point you in the directions of the animals you want to see.
Nigel Hobday — Google review
Great place to visit for family and friends with kids. Conveniently located, however, unfortunately not accessible by public transport. Huge collection of animals with options to see some of them from very close proximity. It has a very nice collection of reptiles as well. There are a huge number of bird species as well. The details of all the animals/ reptiles/birds are given to have more information about them. They have a nice variety of restaurants for takeaway and dine in as well. I think there was a pub as well but unfortunately I was not able to visit it as I had to drive. Overall, it was a very nice place to have a day out.
Abhijeet Roy — Google review
It's one of the better wildlife parks/zoos we've been to. It's a great layout and easy to navigate around.
Great for the whole family!
The restaurant has a good selection of food and all tastes good.
Happily, go there again and again.
Lyndsay Bird — Google review
Amazing day out, its really rather incredible how close to the animals you can get. The staff were so kind and friendly really lovely atmosphere. Very clean and tidy park toilets clean. Ice-cream 10/10. Plenty to do here
natasha kilsby — Google review
Loved this park and gardens. Really good selection of animals and nice play area for kids. Wasn’t too big and was very clean and tidy.
Rachel Landsbury — Google review
Wonderful place! Took our toddler & was a perfect day out, so many animals to see and the farm park was great too. Lovely restaurant if overpriced but nice spacious environment with a small animal enclosure in the corner! Toilets were clean and great baby changing areas. Will definitely visit again!!
Sophie Cottam — Google review
Well, worth a visit, it's not huge so it can be negotiated easily on foot, and you get really close to the animals. The miniature train that runs around the site is a nice touch. There are plenty of toilets and refreshment areas
The Cotswolds Distillery Visitor Centre offers popular tours three times a day, seven days a week. Visitors have the rare opportunity to witness the craft of local spirits and learn about the spirit-making process. The distillery also features a cafe and shop, with plans for an eco-friendly wetlands area in progress. Guests can enjoy experiences like the Gin Masterclass, where they can blend their own gin after learning about its history and sampling various flavors.
Great little distillery in the middle of nowhere. Don’t be worried if your sat nav takes you down some very narrow single track roads, you will get there eventually. Book your tour well in advance as they were fully booked when we turned up on the off chance but they still made us very welcome and we had a short video presentation and then sampled the various whisky’s and gins available before deciding which to take home. Add to that a great little tea or coffee shop, very clean toilets and the best (and biggest) carrot cake we’ve in a long time what more could you want. Highly recommended
David Hollander — Google review
Myself and my other half (as lovers of gin and whisky respectively!) decided to visit for a tour and tasting on our way back home from a trip away. We're both already fans of the produce but wanted a chance to try some different ones and learn a bit more about how it's made. Hattie was a fabulous guide, very knowledgeable and kept everyone laughing too! Lovely afternoon with a bonus of some really nice food from the cafe. Would definitely recommend a visit and we look forward to returning after the upcoming expansion!
Sarah Barratt — Google review
My husband and I had a great time at the Cotswold Distillery - we started with the tour and tasting, which was really interesting and our tour guide was incredibly knowledgeable and made it a great experience! We could try multiple samples of their gin and whisky so it was really good value for money, and drivers could take away a bag with a number of samples of their choice too to try at home which was a really nice touch. Afterwards we also had lunch in their cafe which was delicious, had a great atmosphere, and a wide range of options to suit everyone. We will be going back and would thoroughly recommend!
Lexi — Google review
We visited yesterday for the Gin Masterclass Experience. We had the most fabulous, fun filled 3 hours and Brian, our host, was simply wonderful! Very knowledgeable and kept us laughing throughout. We enjoyed learning the history behind the gin and loved sampling ALl the different flavours before deciding how to blend our own gin (There was a lot to try!). Great we could mix it up our experiment with a tonic and garnish to get a real sense of the taste before we committed to the final product! Mine just needed a dash of grapefruit added to it so great I could go back and tweak the recipe, as many of us did. Of course you get a tad drunk but that's all part of the fun! The drinks weren't in short supply! We really enjoyed sampling the other gins at the end with Brian and a few other couples. We were curious about the 1616 and the wildflower gins so of course it led us to buying a bottle or two before heading back. Alison your a star! Thank you for sorting out a taxi for us! Yours and Brians banter certainly had us laughing. Everyone was warm, friendly and helpful and we really enjoyed our time there. Would highly recommend as lots to do as part of the experience and good value for money we thought. Definitely the better of the two gin experiences we have done. THANK YOU!
Emma Marshall — Google review
Brilliant visit, great tour, Nicola was friendly, knowledgeable and funny, she made the whole visit amazing. We can not speak highly of her, from start to finish, whilst sampling she made the whole group feel included, those who were and were not drinking.
Nicola is a massive personality within your team. Thank you Nicola for making our visit the best gin tour we have been on and we have been on several 😀
The only down side was we bought a pen and realised when we got home it was not put in the bigger bag from bottle bag, should of contact them but life took over. Still an amazing time 😊
One last thing, visit the cafe, food is lovely 😍
Louise Barnby — Google review
One of the best distillery tours we've done. The tour guide was very knowledgeable about both the whiskey and gins that are produced at the distillery. The venue is very pretty and in the beautiful settings of the countryside of the Cotswolds.
The staff were so friendly and happy to help or answer questions, the tasting afterwards was amazing as we got to try as many whiskeys/gins as we wanted.
The food served at the cafe was delicious and much needed after all the tasting we did and of course a few bottles were bought from the gift shop before heading home. If travelling to the Cotswolds for a break/long weekend I would highly recommend a visit to the Distillery...
Sonia Hamilton — Google review
One of the best days out ever. We arrived too early for our guided tour and had time to have some food from on-site restaurant. Shakshouka and pizza were delicious, accompanied by coffee and shots of outstanding whisky liquers Amaro no1 and no2. The tour was very interesting with a blend of humour and information followed by tasking of Cotswolds whisky that is made with heart and passion expressed in its taste. I highly recommend this place to everyone.
Bart Linnert — Google review
Brilliant afternoon spent with the fabulous Susie, what an excellent tour guide. Made it enjoyable for us drivers too! All staff we met today are a credit to the company, everyone lovely and nothing too much trouble. Now slurping my No 3 gin in front of a fire, perfect end to the day!
Debbie Fullick — Google review
The Cotswold Distillery is a fantastic place for Whisky and Gin drinkers alike. I would highly recommend the distillery tour. It's an interesting tour to go on but you get to taste all the Whisky and Gin they supply so if you've not tried one before, here's your chance. Suzy, our tour guide was friendly, funny, and informative. All the staff are friendly. They offer a selection of nice food for snacks and lunch, including stone baked pizza and some excellent cakes
Robert Broglia — Google review
Absolutely fantastic place to visit regardless if just going for some food and drink or the full tour and tasting experience.
Ambiance and hospitality of the employees was fantastic. You could tell they truly enjoyed their workplace and what they were doing.
Doesn't hurt that their Gin and Whiskey collection is yummy as well.
Sascha K — Google review
Absolutely brilliant, can't recommend it enough, very knowledgeable and friendly staff and the whisky speaks for itself, Melissa our tour guide was very very good and susy on the counter was very pleasent, would definitely go again, 👍
Peter Wilcox — Google review
Such a wonderful tour, especially on a rainy afternoon. Our guide was entertaining and knowledgeable and the tasting afterwards was very generous. We stayed for a delicious bite in the cafe and went away with beautiful Gin!
Debbie Williams — Google review
What a fantastic experience. We went on the distillery tour and it was great . Also considered the designated drivers as well with a bag of goodies to take away . Also had a bite at the on-site cafe. Food was great and catered well for dietary's
Gemma Stainsbury — Google review
Excellent, A very friendly team and a great tour.
Informative tasting session at the end. I attended several distillery tours and this is the best by a country mile. Great whiskey as well.
Martin Rushforth — Google review
Fabulous afternoon at the Cotswolds Distillery for a special tour. Sun shone, had lots of nice whiskys and gin. Friendly and helpful staff. Cafe and shop are fantastic. Highly recommended.
New eco friendly wetlands area that has just been started looks fabulous and will be a great environmentally friendly addition to the production of a fabulous range of gins and whiskys.
EDIT: back on Monday morning to buy some whisky and also had a lovely cappuccino and Caramel Latte cake 🍰
Simon Lakin — Google review
We visited for a tour which was great, Lots of information and plenty of tasting. The cafe was also excellent, the pizza and garlic bread were fresh and tested great. Lots of variety of gin and whisky in the shop too. The staff were all very welcoming, everyone went above and beyond to make sure you had a good time. The tour guide was amazing, Charlotte, she made the tour with a good balance of humour and information.
Ryan Smith — Google review
Great informative tour with an excellent tasting session afterward. Hattie was our tour guide, she was funny and brilliant
b m — Google review
Visited for a group evening gin making class and demonstration. Awesome fun and a great night out. Only downside was I forgot what was learned by drinking far took much of what was made 🤪 🍷
Fobby — Google review
4.9
(1091)
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5.0
(2564)
Phillip's Field, Whichford Road, Stourton, Shipston-on-Stour CV36 5EX, United Kingdom
Broadway Tower is a unique castle located in a breathtaking location on the Cotswold escarpment. The tower has an amazing view of the surrounding area and features a shop, restaurant, and audio tour. The tower is well-presented with a quirky history that is worth exploring.
Enjoyed the short walk round this tower. The view was amazing even if it was a bit hazy. It has cleared a bit after we had had a drink in the lovely cafe so walked a little way on another path to take in the view. If you are going on the long walk then park down at the bottom carpark as it's free.
Sheila Keel — Google review
Lovely location great scenery and a great cafe and shop to have lunch and chat out doors on within. Service was gast and friendly and lots of parking space at a reasonable price as great for a stroll with kids who will love seeing the wild deer and running around the tower. There is a small charge to be on the tower grounds and a combined charge to go into tower and be on the grounds. Its a great place to have a picnic and watch the deer with kids or even adults. We had good weather and so you see along distance making the scenery great.
Nirav Patel — Google review
What a lovely sight as you tamp along the Cotswold Way towards Broadway.
It was raining earlier and so to see this tower appear with the sun on it was delightful.
You can purchase a ticket to view inside but I didn’t do this as I had muddy boots etc.
The views a wonderful from this high spot.
Definitely do it if you’re in the area.
Paul Tooze (No Journey Too Small) — Google review
While it may be small there is still a lot of history to be discovered. Some sunny and clear (ish) sky's allowed to see a great distances. Take binoculars for better site seeing.
Had some rain beforehand, so some muddy patches - check the weather and bring wellies
Chill Dude — Google review
Really worth a visit. Walked up the hill from Broadway to the Tower which overlooks the town. Well presented with a shop cafe and restaurant. Incredible views of the surrounding area and a very quirky history. Enjoyed the visit but found the £12 entry a little on the spicy side. On balance worth it
Rich Lewis — Google review
Absolutely stunning views from this great "folly". You can climb to the top of the tower through a number of different rooms. Go on a nice, sunny clear day and the 360 degree view over the countryside from the tower top is out of this world. There are also a number of extremely pleasant walks to do around the tower's locality. Parking is plentiful and there is a cafe for refreshments.
Allan — Google review
Nice hill and tower. Not sure it is worth paying to enter, but definitely coming to see the view and enjoy a bit of good weather.
If you are lucky, you may be able to visit the adjacent bunker too (not always open to public).
Joao Pacheco — Google review
Absolute gem worth visiting. Recommend buying tickets online as there's limited space and devices inside. Outside there are beautiful paths to have wonderful walks with stunning views. Can make it as long as you like it and visit cafe or food and drink trailer after. There's also good chance you'll meet deer. They're adorable :)
Iza Przado — Google review
Circular walk from Broadway village up to the Tower. Great views during the walk and from the tower. £14 to visit the tower. It's probably worth it for the amazing views. Good parking at the top if you can't make the walk up, with a good cafe with a great selection of food and drinks plus a shop.
Andrew Cullen — Google review
Nice place to visit.
We walked up from Broadway village. It's a decent hour or so walk up and the paths are very muddy and wet.
There are various different paths up and down so worth checking a map before hand.
Beautiful views from the top of the hill.
Nice cafe near the tower.
Suzie G — Google review
Very interesting visit inside the tower, it took us 1 hour as we listened to everything on the audio tour... Rooms are beautifully decorated, great views from the top, it is well worth the £12 entry. Take your time and enjoy it.
Gillian Tanner — Google review
Worth having a walk up to the tower if you’re visiting the Broadway area. £12 entry with a very good audio guide provided which explains the history of the folly. The interior is very impressive especially the library area and with great views from the top. Visited on a Saturday and was busy around the local area but quiet within the tower.
Tom Bird — Google review
Really interesting place to visit and a must with the Audio guide. The Tower is a must. The circular stroll around the Deer Park is also lovely for the views of such an interesting building and area.
Gluten free offerings limited in cafe close to Tower and very overpriced. 1 sandwich, 1 soup, 1 quiche and salad and 3 hot drinks £46. 😬 Take a picnic to enjoy in the grounds instead.
Anna Williams — Google review
A really interesting place to visit. Fascinating history, and the very best audio/video guide we have encountered. Good for the history but also good for the children with little games to play on the guide screen.
Cafe and toilets are clean and tidy. A good selection of typical "tourist attraction" food and drink.
Buying tickets in advance is less expensive if you are parking your car. Entrance tickets are timed; i.e., you book a time to enter the tower. I don't know how strict they are on timing. Not very I suspect.
Only 4 stars because it's a little on the expensive side at £14 per adult entrance including the audio/video guide as mentioned. Well recommend though.
Stephen Bell — Google review
If you're seeking a place that's as beautiful as it is memorable, this is the spot you've been waiting for.
First things first, bring that trusty tripod along – you'll want to capture every breathtaking angle of this place. The tower is an absolute masterpiece, radiating beauty from both the inside and outside. 📷🏰
But here's the real magic: the view from the top. Oh boy, it's a sight that'll leave you speechless. From rolling landscapes to awe-inspiring horizons, it's a visual feast that's worth the climb.
As if that wasn't enough, the tower spoils you with a coffee shop and a souvenir shop – the perfect cherry on top of this fantastic experience.
So, without a doubt, I'm waving the recommendation flag high for Broadway Tower. If you're craving beauty, adventure, and those picture-perfect moments, this is the place to be.
Miriam Khilji — Google review
Well maintained, interesting piece of history. While.privately owned tower/grounds tickets are reasonably priced at £14 per adult and £3 per child (pending age). Included with a ticket is an audio guide that is also interacting for children. Everyone we encountered working the property was so nice.
Kristen Horwith — Google review
Broadway tower is a great spot to visit. I have visited this small building just with my wife and on a separate occasion with my family too. You can get a tour of the building through a mobile device and headphones (both provided in the cost). The quality of the tour was great and easy to navigate around. If you are interested in this building or history it is great for you. On the site is a car park, a shop, a cafe where you can eat, and a short walk away is a coffee shop too. There are great little and I imagine long walks around here some very hilly areas too. This was a great morning out for us. A very chilled and relaxing morning, love this area of the cotswolds and would go back soon. You can buy tickets in advance online, which we did, or you can buy them from the shop on site. The cafe was very busy, so we ended up going down to the coffee shop where we had a drink and some cake, which was amazing. Definitely recommend to anyone.
Tom Mason — Google review
Lovely day - blue sky - 1C - with a northerly wind - the views were fantastic. The top cafe is excellent. Posh Cheese on toast recommended. The walk around the Tower is very good. Nice to see the deer. Dog friendly
Hednesford Childs — Google review
Amazing views! AMAZING!
We didn’t go up the tower as we just went to watch the sun set. You have to pay to go in the tower and to have a bunker tour.
A lot of different paths and walks. Dog friendly cafe and pop up coffee places.
Would be lovely in the summer, with a picnic.
Definitely coming back and definitely recommend for a morning/afternoon stroll.
Fyn Simmonds — Google review
Pretty tower in a nice setting, on top of a hill, with fantastic views! You can pay to visit the tower and get even better views from the top. There’s paid parking with a nice cafe and outdoor tables. Great spot for a picnic too! The site also has a small nuclear bunker that you can visit (open only on Sundays in summer) and a deer reserve.
Fernando Ortelli — Google review
Lovely place to visit if you are in the Cotswolds. Good parking, variety of walks, red deer on site and a rich history associated with the tower. The views from the top were amazing, although very windy. To top it all the cafe was brilliant, lots of choice of food and drink, places to site and superd service.
John Bancroft — Google review
Fantastic place to walk around. It's a picnic area. You can see deers around here. Scenic view. Theres a small walking area as well. The castle itself surrounded by greeneries. Beautiful place. Free parking on the road side. If you want to go inside the castle you have to buy tickets. But to roam outside, it's free.
Good place for family.
The Rooftop Restaurant provides stunning views of Stratford-upon-Avon and the River Avon, with options to dine inside or on the balcony. The restaurant serves a variety of British and European dishes, including Sunday roasts. Cocktails appear to be a popular choice with visitors, and the cocktail masterclass is one of the top five drinks experiences in Stratford-upon-Avon.
I treated myself by going for the three course dinner before a show and it was one of the most enjoyable meals I have had for a while. The staff were welcoming and the dishes came out quickly. The beetroot salad starter was amazing, lots of wonderful tastes going on that all worked together. The main was a lovely spiced tagine and the dessert was a pleasure for the eyes as well as the taste buds. I had lemon meringue pie with raspberry sorbet, it was really good.
The only issue I had was getting my bill in time for the show as there were a lot of people wanting the bill at the same time. However this was a minor thing.
Laura C — Google review
Had lunch here for Mothering Sunday - first time visit. Really impressed with the service, the food, the view, the acoustics of the place, the seating and comfy chairs, the drinks menu and the climate in the dining area. Everything is geared towards a great experience. 10% tip is charged and I have no problems with that. Will be back.
Hugo Happel — Google review
Had a delicious lunch.. food was beautiful. Great views. Lovely friendly staff. Would definitely recommend
Issy R — Google review
Beautiful food, lovely views.
We couldn't get a table for the Saturday evening pre-performance, but were offered a Sunday afternoon slot, which was probably more relaxed too. You can pre order afternoon tea, or enjoy the main menu, which is lovely
Glen Collinson — Google review
Our server, Tom, was very friendly and supportive. A credit to the RSC restaurant. He answered all our queries about the food, it was service with a smile all the time. He made our visit very enjoyable. We had 3 courses, not usual for us, and found the portions just right. The food was excellent. A very good dining experience.
ingrid fordred — Google review
A bit pricey for me,the food was nice,just not enough of it( I'm a proper roast chicken person rather than gordon ramsay drizzle) picture below was my main meal
John Irving — Google review
Went for a pre-theare 3-course dinner, and it's delicious. The food menu is ok interesting, with good presentation and decent volume. The drink menu is interesting, recommend the basil smash!
Yaran Liang — Google review
Fantastic location, fabulous food, and friendly staff. Treated us (my 11-year-old and me) with kindness and respect. Well organised staff and well-cooked food. Great menu and good value for pre-theatre. Relaxed atmosphere and welcoming environment. Highly recommend.
Steph Marshall Power — Google review
Only at the RSC for a meal, excellent food and very fast service. 1 x 2 course(£29) and 1 x 3 course(£31),plus bottle of merlot(£24). £94 including standard service charge. Well worth it.
John Primmer — Google review
We were early for our reservation but our party of five was accommodated at a fabulous table looking out over the river. The food was excellent and catered well for the vegan who was one of our group. The atmosphere was relaxed - we spent a comfortable three hours over our meal - and the service was courteous and efficient. We had a lovely meal and a first rate experience.
Amanda Elliott — Google review
I was pleased that despite needing a gluten free meal, there was plenty of choice available on the menu and that dishes could be adapted to meet my needs. Our waitress was very helpful. We always enjoy dining here and do so, even if we're not going to a performance.
Alwyn Jackson — Google review
Great place for a pre-theatre dinner, lovely food and good drinks. Staff are friendly and helpful.
Hazzy M — Google review
A superb meal in a comfortable location, with friendly and attentive staff, before a fantastic production! What more could you ask for? Thank you RSC!
Michael Soley — Google review
Location at the top of the theatre has great views. The lunch time set menu was excellent value with a great range of options including dairy and gluten free. Starters included salmon bruschetta with a gluten free alternative and spicy pakoras. Main course of cod was beautifully cooked and vegetables and potatoes delicious.
Julia W — Google review
Despite the performance being cancelled, it was great to be able to eat in the restaurant. The staff were lovely, very friendly and helpful. The food was delicious, really tasty and served quickly and was hot. We will definitely be back.
Helen Long — Google review
We returned to the restaurant for special occasion as previous visit was exceptional, however, we were sitted in a hidden corner even though there were plenty of empty tables.
Food was below average, very disappointing, nothing special.
The bread that was served with the soup was not fresh.
The soup OK, but nothing special.
Desert cutlery was placed on the table without napkins, which is also unhygienic.
My coffee cup was chipped.
The desert did not taste fresh, some was very dry.
Overall we were very disappointed today considering the location and high price, which we don't mind to pay, but today was not worth it.
We won't be back.
Maya c — Google review
We had a fantastic visit with a superb meal. All staff were so polite and helpful. A great experience. We will definitely be back.
Susan Cresswell — Google review
Me and my mum have an annual trip to Stratford upon Avon, we always book a table here, and we've never been disappointed. Beautiful, well portioned and delicious food and the staff are always so friendly, knowledgeable and polite. We order from the pre-theatre set menu which is reasonably priced considering the standard of the food. Can't wait to come back.
Emma Bailey — Google review
We love this restaurant. The setting is a wonderful fusion of new and old. The staff are so lovely and attentive. The food is excellent. Prices reasonable. A perfect pre theatre meal. But would be good as a destination even if you’re not going to one of the amazing shows.
Adrian Rosten-Smart — Google review
4.4
(407)
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4.5
(3465)
3rd Floor, Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Waterside, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6BB, United Kingdom
Shakespeare's birthplace is a Tudor house located on one of the main streets of Stratford-upon-Avon. It is managed by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, and contains a small museum as well as memorabilia from Shakespeare's family and life.
A must visit place if you live in West Midlands. Parking may be an issue. I used the nearby Lidl shopping Centre parking (3 hours max parking is adequate to see around the places).
Thinley Choedhen — Google review
We had a lovely afternoon visiting this place. We booked in advance just to avoid the queue but it wasn't very busy, although we did visit on a Thursday. There was a guide in every room that gave details about where we were and was happy to answer any questions. The gift shop is amazing, it's impossible to leave without buying something. There's a lovely garden with benches and toilets. We parked at Bridgeway Multi Storey car park which is approx 8 min walk from the place.
The surrounding areas are also lovely.
Alice Wonder — Google review
We had a very lovely day out visiting Stratford-upon-Avon😊 Shakespeare's Birthplace was at the top of our priority list, and we were not disappointed because there was so much history! It was a highly interesting experience. The staff inside the house were also really dedicated and it was obvious they were educated about the place🙂 Thank you for the enjoyable time❤️ PS: One of my photos shows Shakespeare's grave, which is only around 10-15 minutes walking distance from his birthplace if you would like to visit that too!!
Hannah — Google review
It was very beautiful place to visit. If you are fan of Shakespeare and his works it’s a must visit place for you. The staffs were very friendly and helpful. Tickets were little bit expensive but still it’s worth it. The toilets were clean. The gift shop has a lot of stuff to buy and explore. The surrounding have a lot of stores for souvenirs and other things. Really beautiful place to explore. I highly recommend it.
Jarin Sanramoni — Google review
Stratford upon Avon a lovely place to visit, nice town, restaurants and plenty of places of interest. Shakespeare's Birthplace worth a visit especially if enjoy history and English literature. Spent about 45 minutes here a little over priced but helps with the upkeep.
Stacy Denley — Google review
I had a really good time and felt like I taken I step back in history. This is really good value for money and the house itself is beautiful. I enjoyed seeing the different versions of Shakespeare’s through the artwork that was done. I found the whole experience really interesting and would go back again any time. The staff and the actors are on hand to make sure that your experience of the day is memorable. If I could give this place 10 stars I would. Thank you so much for a lovely experience and can’t wait to come back.
Sarah Cursons — Google review
Nice place to visit and a significant piece of history that is well worth your time if you're visiting Stratford-upon-Avon. The house itself is not very big and just has a few rooms to see but it's filled with lots of history. Just to be able to walk in the footsteps of the great William Shakespeare was a treat. Considering the high price of the ticket for the visit of this house only, I would recommend getting the Shakespeare's Story ticket that will give you access to three of Shakespeare's family homes.
Julien Prudhomme — Google review
If the historical records are correct, this place is where WS was born. The exhibition centre at the ticket office is a bit moderate,but the house itself has some characteristics. The staff gave us a good talk about the history of the house and WS's family.
T Sultis — Google review
Good for the tourists, but was he really born here... probably not... considering that his name is even incorrect and he was most likely stoned when he wrote his best works, can you really take any of this seriously...?!
Nice enough building and "experience ", but very expensive imo...
Also, the 80's centre built around the cottage is obscene, hopefully the architect never got another job after designing that monstrosity...
Brian Morrall — Google review
Lovely town with lots of fine ancient buildings. Many, many tourists perambulating in groups with guides, if you want a quieter experience probably best to go off season. The RSC park is delightful with drama students putting in lots of outdoor plays. The riverside space is beautiful.
Paul Goddard — Google review
Amazing place with lots of history, feels so special visiting the place where William Shakespeare is buried! Whe whole world studies him and his plays are known globally so being there in person is a special feeling...
A must if you're in the area!!
Peter Leeson — Google review
We visited as my daughter loves Shakespeare. The first part is a display of items about Shakespeare and the time he was born. The gardens are beautiful. The house is very small, we got round everything in under 40 mins. If you are a true fan it's worth a visit. I do feel however that the ticket price is very expensive for what it is. To visit just the birthplace it would have been nearly £50 for a family of 4. We did get the tickets that allowed us to return and go to another two Shakespeare attractions however when we visited we didn't have the time to go to the others and as it was a 4 hour round trip so I doubt we will use the return tickets.
Hannah King — Google review
I was dreaming to visit this place for ages, since I learned English at school in Ukraine 20 years ago. It's definitely a "must" place. There is a small museum before you enter the house itself. It's a very atmosphere place, staff is very friendly and gives a lot of information. Also there was a small Romeo and Juliette show. The bookstore is also nice.
Kate Solodkaya — Google review
Key Features:
Historic Setting: Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Elizabethan England as you explore the rooms where Shakespeare grew up, played, and likely dreamt of his future as a playwright.
Interactive Exhibits: Discover fascinating insights into Shakespeare's life and work through engaging exhibits, multimedia presentations, and costumed actors.
Beautiful Gardens: Wander through the charming gardens surrounding the house, where herbs and flowers would have been familiar to Shakespeare and his family.
Family Connections: Learn about Shakespeare's family and their influence on his plays, from his father's glover business to his wife, Anne Hathaway.
Significance:
Shakespeare's Birthplace is a touchstone for fans of English literature and theater worldwide.
It offers a glimpse into the social and cultural context that shaped Shakespeare's writing.
Visiting the birthplace allows you to connect with the origins of one of the greatest writers in the English language.
Visiting Shakespeare's Birthplace:
Open daily, with guided tours and self-guided exploration options available.
Advance booking recommended, especially during peak season.
Educational programs and family activities offered throughout the year.
Unleash your inner Bard and embark on a journey through literary history at Shakespeare's Birthplace. It's a place where imagination takes flight and the words of the master come alive.
Yasith Ramawickrama — Google review
So much history and information. Guides very helpful and friendly. Lots to see. Easy to get around. Gardens were beautiful.
Suzanne Cantwell Birkin — Google review
It’s a very nice place to visit. Tour guides are placed nicely and each of them is very kind and patiently. Ask them questions about the building and the history, you will be very satisfied with their answers.
Mulder Chen — Google review
A really quaint little village where Shakespeare was born. The house he grew up in has been renovated and is now a museum of sorts. Obviously the whole village has drawn tons of exposure due to Shakespeare. But the city has kept it relatively small and very clean from all the tourists. Overall, a great place to visit when in the area
C Neon — Google review
Place was really nice. People inside the birthplace was really nice and explained about the furnitures in the room also the relevance of the other things in the house. Shakespeare’s story and people in his life and career explained clearly through a time line. Loved tge vibe on the street.
Shubhangi Bhardwaj — Google review
Shakespeare and English literature goes hand in hand.
This is a must visit site if visiting England 2hr stopover is enough to visit Shakespeare home and see around town.
It is remarkable how Shakespeare House is still maintained to the highest standard even after 500 years whilst many new build looks like they will not last 20 years.
Victorian houses speaks quality. There is a nice shop to buy Shakespeare related good.
ghulam bhutto — Google review
4.5
(16294)
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4.5
(5305)
Henley St, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 6QW, United Kingdom
The impressive Warwick Castle is a showpiece of family fun, with attractions ranging from waxworks to jousting tournaments. Fine accommodation options are available on-site and the castle is easy to reach by public transport.
Amazing place to visit! All my family loved it! Beautiful walks and beautiful view!
Inside it's a lot of history to learn and enjoy, great for children! We had a great day! Enjoyed the ice skating as well and some delicious mulled wine outside in the Christmas Market!
I would definitely recommend for anyone to go! It is worth every moment!
Andreea Neculcia — Google review
We had a really good day at the castle the number of events were well thought out and their staging timed to allow you to walk to the next event by the shortest distance before the next event starts. All events were repeated at least twice a day. Great finale to the raptor event. Lots of places to sit and eat with spectacular views of the castle and countryside. An educational and fun day out in a well preserved piece of English heritage and history really worth a visit.
Robert harris — Google review
I love this place, have visited so many times. I did queue for my ticket as I wanted to use my English Heritage card ( gets you 25% off). There is so much to see and so, one day is just not long enough. The jousting is just amazing and great crowd interaction, trebuchet is impressive again a great show and the falconers quest. The birds of prey are stunning. All involved in the shows are great, really engage with the crowds.
So much to see inside the castle too, and a lot of ground to cover outside. Did not manage to do or see everything today. Will need a return visit soon. Fantastic experience every time I visit and never disappointed. Lots of gift shops, various toilets dotted around. Food vendors in various places, did not have food from any. I usually take a picnic.
Parking is easy to get to, a small trek to the castle. Pay for parking when you get to castle entrance which currently is £6 for the day.
Highly recommended a day out here.
maria coleman — Google review
This visit exceeded our expectations. The tour of the living quarters in the palace is very interesting with plenty of history and artefacts. The grounds are very well kept and plenty of refreshments available. The falconry display was exceptional and we had an interesting time talking to an archer. We missed the jousting event unfortunately as we were too busy looking around the castle
Paul Savage — Google review
A brilliant day out. Such a beautiful castle, but also made all the more fun for the kids by all big cast of actors in costume, who were hugely enthusiastic. Loved it - particularly the Wars of the Roses show in the showground!
Jonathan Mayes — Google review
Great place to visit if a little dear, birds of prey demonstration was excellent . Lots to see but think the dungeon should be in with the admission price not an extra, can easily spend the whole day there.
Steven Preece — Google review
I greatly enjoyed my trip to Warwick Castle, however I felt as though events and places to visit weren’t greatly advertised. Whilst the staff and Halloween actors were all lovely, I felt as though the event was more directed towards children and I felt like there was little to nothing for me to do there. The scenery was beautiful and I enjoyed my trip to the dungeons- just unfortunately I felt like it wasn’t suitable for younger adults.
C — Google review
Outstanding place ! So so much to do , birds of prey shows, peacocks , actually Castle, zogs playground, maze and a million more things. English heritage members get 50 % off on the gate or book online . Parking is 6.00 . As always take your own food . Excellent excellent day out
Candice Jones — Google review
Really liked it. Plenty of space inside and outside. There is definitely something to see. I highly recommend a visit. There are several places on the area of the castle where you can eat.
Gintare R. — Google review
Very cool castle with plenty for everyone. The activities set up around the site are perfect for children and adults. Great food carts, fascinating history. Recommended day out for sure!
Kyle MacDonald — Google review
A great day out for everyone everywhere is cleaned regularly and the toilets are good as well. Most things have to be paid for when inside like the archery, photos and the dungeon but there is a lot to see, the gardens and conservatory area is Good for a rest out of the sun . plenty of seating around the grounds there certainly is plenty to do for a full day out .
Beano — Google review
Excellent day out with kids. Well persevered and maintained castle. Lovely interior and lots of activities for children. Lovely grounds. I recommend of buying tickets online prior to coming. On the spot tickets are pricier
Um Ash — Google review
Always something new to discover!
We’ve been to Warwick Castle many times, decided on a weekday visit to catch the War of the Roses show and wasn’t disappointed.
The WotR has been updated once again this year, the background story is more in-depth and captures the attention of young and old.
The horsemanship is something to behold with additional surprises at the end of the show.
The Falconer’s Quest was superb as is always the case, the one notable difference is the improved audience engagement, the cast put a huge effort into bringing the birds right into the audience area with flying in close proximity to all.
The castle and attractions are in-depth and enough to keep you engaged all day long.
Beware though, if wanting to walk the top of the walls and the towers where the views are breathtaking, there are many difficult steps to negotiate.
The route is challenging for most.
Parking is something of a pain, the walk from the main field parking can be challenging with a large portion of the twenty minutes being uphill.
Easier parking can be found in the town centre for a similar price.
The food and drink offering are poor value as is the case at all Merlin sites, a regular coffee will set you back £4.30 minimum with very limited options.
Overall, a great day out and well recommended.
Darren M — Google review
Not my first visit here. It's a good day out. The castle and staff are great. The reason this doesn't get 5 stars is the cost of extras throughout the experience. Per person Dungeon £6 (over 10s only), Archery £6. Sword handling £6... if a family of 4 all have a go at each the cost of the day goes through the roof. All this on top of ticket cost and £10 for parking for the day. The best bit is probably the jousting show... at least that is free. Please also note there are a lot of step involved in experiencing the walls and towers, so if you have a mobility restriction you won't get the most out of the day.
Will BB — Google review
Fantastic but too expensive.
The castle is beautiful and very well preserved. There’s lots of things to do and the Falconer Quest spectacle is simply awesome.
However, paying £140 for 4 people is just excessive.
If at least they had the second day free option, it would be worth it because they only open 6 hours a day and visiting with kids, 6 hours is not enough.
Moisés Ruiz — Google review
brilliant had a nice walk around in the day and seen the shows The Falcons the best we have ever seen made our weekend. Also the Halloween event was very good 👍
Matt Huthwaite — Google review
Beautiful experience, I will admit it’s overpriced at £40pp (excluding the dungeons - an additional £10pp) but nevertheless an excellent experience. We went during the Halloween event and it was beautiful and a fun time.
SPARKELS7797 — Google review
This was amazing experience, lots of live scenes and they have seasonal events as well. It was a bit expensive almost 40 pounds for entry, but if you have english heritage membership, it costs 19.50 which I think was great value for money! Lots of climbing in the castle as well so be prepared to get sweating!
Erika P — Google review
Not cheap but you get what you pay for and it's quite good. We spent a little extra and visited the dungeons which was one of the best dungeon experiences we've had, very entertaining and making the audience part of the show. I recommend a visit here most definitely but don't expect it to be cheap.
Toby Richards — Google review
Our family stayed in the Tower Suite for a fun break, and can recommend it unreservedly. The Rose Suite is beautiful, and well appointed with a big comfy bed, a range of coffees and teas, a big TV built in to the end of the bed (it rises like magic from its cabinet), and an excellent walk-in shower room. The views from the top of the tower were amazing.
The concierge team - Emily, Jordan, and Ellie - were very attentive to our needs while maintaining a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Their dedication to our comfort and satisfaction only added to an already impressive experience.
With our stay we also had a private tour of the castle, and Imogen from the history team did not disappoint. She took us on an entertaining and informative walk around the grounds, and was extremely patient in dealing with the many questions and interjections from our children.
Even without an overnight stay, there is plenty to do at Warwick Castle, with a very impressive bird of prey show, and another show that climaxes with the firing of an enormous trebuchet. In addition there was a history-themed maze, and a playground for smaller children among other attractions.
Our kids have a number of food allergies, and the staff were exceptionally helpful when it came to meal planning for them. Chef Max went out of his way to make sure everything was safe and we could enjoy ourselves without worrying about the menus, and just enjoy the delicious food.
Carl A — Google review
Worth the money. Make sure you walk up to the keep. The spiral staircase is a bit tiring, but the views at the end are spectacular. This also seems like a family-friendly castle, if such a thing.
Michael Dobbins — Google review
An incredible castle with beautiful scenery around. It might be smaller than many castles but you will be surprised by the fact that there is so much to do. It's an excellent day trip. Good to visit both on weekdays and weekends.
Do not let the steep steps to the tower discourage you.Brave yourself to the top and you will be rewarded with amazing views.
For more fun ,pack a picnic along and enjoy it there. There is an eatery there but prices are a lil bit on the higher side. A picnic saves you the spend plus gives a romantic feel to your outing.
Su R c — Google review
Brilliant place to visit with or without kids. The staff are all friendly and the characters all play their roles excellently. The place is big and has plenty to see and do. From walking around the castle towers and gardens to watching the shows and meeting the characters. The bird show was amazing.
Kenneth Smyth — Google review
Came here as part of a coach trip and I was amazed with the history this castle contains!
There is plenty to do for everyone here, regardless of age.
shows, tours, shops, and plenty of information for those with an interest in history.
My only complaint was that I never had enough time to take everything in or enjoy any shows as I was limited for time.
To fully explore and see everything this castle has to offer would take a full day.
William McCreadie — Google review
Great experience for the entire family. All shows were fun and exciting! Spent an entire day there and still need to come back as so many things were left unexplored.
Stryker — Google review
The shows were great 👍 much better than l expected especially the wars of the roses. Half day is not enough for visiting all the spots, recommend whole day trip.
Hsun-Yen Wu — Google review
Went here for a day out with my gf. Was a wonderful day and we had plenty of things to see. Be sure to check out the scare dungeon. It is NOT the original castle dungeon, but it is worth the show, and there is an original castle dungeon under one of the towers. Do not hesitate to get up on the castle walls, sore legs are worth the magnificent views. To get up on the wall you need to take the stairs on the right as soon as you enter the castle gate. Tower stairs can be annoying, the steps are short and high, but again, it is worth the experience.
Book in advance to avoid it being sold out, but keep in mind that the tickets are non refundable. There is, however, a rainy day guarantee.
Most of the other attractions outside of the castle gates, such as mazes, are not really worth your time unless you have kids. There are many food stands with delicious food though.
Vova B — Google review
Good tour of this castle. Lots to see and explore. It was expensive, but that’s how they keep the castle and surroundings maintained. Well worth it for the experience. The birds of prey show was excellent.
Paul Stockwell — Google review
Despite being the first day of it's reopening all was good. Great knowledge of the guide George. Great Owl and Hawk display. Nicely presented rooms on display.
Treccie Online — Google review
A great day to spend then this is one of them.
Smaller than Windsor. But was very interesting and multiple options to do.
The entire day was spent and was impressive for the money spent.
Strong recommendation to visit
Janardhan Swahar — Google review
Great, very well kept castle and grounds, the exhibits are very good and the figures are very life-like.
There are a couple of cafes and a falconry display. There are lots of very grand rooms to look around, also the walls, towers and gardens to explore. Plenty of steps to keep you fit.
It is easy to spend four hours or more here.
More friendly and relaxed than Windsor Castle.
dave fenna — Google review
It's really good. The interiors are amazing and the characters look like real life. Kids will enjoy it as they will get their own playground which has swings. Other than castle visit, there is Maze which is another fun activity for kids. The river side arena view is also great. Would recommend at least 1 visit.
Himani Duggal — Google review
This was a last minute stop while we were close by and so glad we did visit. We absolutely loved it. The bird show was fantastic. The castle was lovely inside and out. Maze and play area for the children. Great day out.
Hannah — Google review
This is a great castle. I went here while visiting the UK and was satisfied with my experience. This castle was ordered to be built by William the Conqueror, but the castle here today was constructed later. This castle has a small dungeon, large staterooms you can walk through, a tower you can climb up, a shirt movie explaining the history of the castle, ramparts you can walk on, and a garden. I gave this castle five stars because it’s a beautiful historic place. This is definitely one of the best things I did in England.
Qwerty — Google review
My daughter purchased tickets in advance and got a good deal. Although it rained on the day, we have a 60day rainy day guarantee.
Good day out with the grandchildren, watched the falconry display and catapult.
Only disappointment was cafes shut early and attraction open until 6pm needed warm drink with the weather.
Climbed the castle but be advised if not fittest don't attempt. Spectacular views from the top!
Lynn — Google review
Our first visit to Warwick Castle was an absolute delight. We were thoroughly impressed by the sheer amount of activities available for the entire family. From the historical exhibitions to the interactive experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The castle is set against incredibly scenic surroundings, making every moment picture-perfect. It's a fantastic destination that combines education with entertainment, ensuring a memorable day out for visitors of all ages.
We can't recommend it enough for anyone looking to immerse themselves in history and have fun in the process.
David Chan — Google review
What a day, we really enjoyed it with two small kids, the playground was lots of fun, the horrible histories maze allowed us to explore and the shows we really good, definitely would come back again.
thomas badhams — Google review
This was such an incredible experience! The only downside to the Castle is the pricey food inside (so make sure you bring a few snacks if you don't want to spend much). But the whole place is totally worth the price of admission! There is so much to see and the history and legacy of the Castle is so well preserved. There is something for everybody there! The live events such as the Legend of the Trebuchet and the Falconer's Quest were also amazing and totally worth seeing!
Gabriela Luz — Google review
Amazing experience visiting the ancient Castle. All the areas were so beautiful and well kept. Fortunately the weather was very beautiful this day. The peacock’s garden was stunning and the birds were everywhere. A wonderful fun filled day for all the family. The dungeon was also great and we had a tour guide who explained everything to us! Definitely worth a visit.
The Coventry Transport Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in British motor vehicles or transport. With more than 200 exhibits covering everything from bicycles to land-speed record breakers, the museum offers an unparalleled overview of this fascinating topic. Highlights include a 60-year-old Vintage Sleigh Ride and the DeLorean DMC-12 from Back to the Future. Kids will love exploring the 4D Thrust speed simulator.
Having visited a few transport museums I can honestly say that this museum is in the top 3 in the country. Children and adults will love this place, packed with history very well laid and out easy to navigate. Parking nearby in Bishop Street I paid £4 for 3 hours. I can highly recommend this Museum and the nearby Esquires Coffee shop. The staff were great.
Ian Stewart — Google review
A great experience and voyage. The history and details of some of the greatest inventions of our modern age.
A huge variety of vehicles from push bikes, scooters, motorcycles and cars.
Loads of information and interactive stations.
Dkr — Google review
One of the best museums to take kids to. Had a wonderful time. The highlights of the museum are the Thrust SSC and Thrust 2 that are both engineering marvel. The Thrust SSC simulator 4D experience is good that talks about the history and then takes you to the ride. The museum tickets are valid for a year so that's a bonus.
Ashish Shukla — Google review
Amazing Museum. So much to look at and plenty of interesting information throughout. Took 3 1/2 hours to walk through and see everything. Tickets are valid for a year so the price is perfect. Would definitely come back.
Only disappointing part was the gifts shop was rather small, and didn't have much that was themed specifically for the museum. Plenty of toy cars though!
Ven R — Google review
Lovely place to visit, so much knowledge to learn about Coventry and the history of all sorts of vehicles and transport. Hands on activities and informative exhibits. The whole history of transport all laid out in a really enjoyable journey of time.
Great disabled access and toilets, reasonably priced cafe and decent gift shop with something for all wallets, they even do a pocket money bag for 5 pound including a variety of items.
Every single member of staff were happy, polite informative and helped us out loads, from showing us where the lift was to telling us how to use the penny press machine, nothing was too much trouble.
With the 12 month free return ticket included in the entry price this place is a bargain and needless to say, we will return. Highly recommended.
Thank you for a great place to visit.
Leanne Frisby — Google review
Wonderful, interesting and exciting experience that I will for sure re-do at some point this year!
The tickets are valid 12 months from when you purchase them and it is possible to visit anytime. Their hours are available on the website, but I believe the museum is open on Bank Holidays too!!!
I have to say that what we saw was astonishing and took us back into the old times, it was a sensational feeling and the 1800/1900 vibes are enjoyable.
Another visit is due as I believe there is so much to learn and explore inside the museum that I did not read and understood much in my previous visit. I definitely am interested in what made this city, Coventry, the city it is today.
MariStella — Google review
We left with mixed feelings.
When we arrived and purchased tickets on the day we were happy and let in with no queues or such, it was very clear when walking around that I think we were two of only half a dozen people in there. Extremely quiet very little visitors on our day.
The displays were generally nice and well done and it was great to see some amazing history. However it was also a little disappointing that most of the interactive stuff was either broken, not working or switched off.
It's surprisingly large place compared to the outside, and took us a while to walk around.
There was one area we mentioned that while they was a lift it was blocked up by some cones, which we thought was odd if someone wasn't able to use the stairs.
In the last bit there was a sign for an 'speed record experience' in the jet car area.
On arrival at this, no staff was to be found and so we didn't get to experience this.
You leave through the giftstore which itself wasn't that great. I went to ask at the desk about the experience and was told.
Someone should be there and can take the payment for it. I questioned further and this wasn't included in the ticket and cost extra.
So we passed up on this.
Marc Kempster — Google review
Fascinating venue with both cars and push bikes from my past. Went to see the Thrust SSC 2. Also experienced the simulator. Well worth a visit if you are car buff.
Si Johnson — Google review
Massive collection of classic cars, bikes, and motorcycles, with detailed historical context and information. Focus is on locally manufactured exhibits, but plenty to see. Separate sections for commercial vehicles and the history of Jaguar cars.
Well worth visiting if you are in Coventry City centre.
Dave Harris — Google review
"Coventry Gem! Don't miss this spot where history and the motor vehicle world collide. Learn about Coventry's past and the incredible evolution of cars—all in one place. Surprisingly, the best vintage cars were born here! Plus, score free entry with a valid Go CV registration. A must-visit!"
akhil madhavan — Google review
This museum is really good. Even for kids you have so many fun activities or games to play with. As an adult i would say i really enjoyed here with my husband. We were here for nearly 4 hours. It has so many old cards that are just stunning. The price of the ticket is okay because you can visit it multiple times over an year. Staff is nice and friendly if you need help. There is 4D show at the end which is around £3 for a ride and its good experience.
Emanuela Bozhinova — Google review
We visited Coventry as we had some things to do and someone recommended this place to visit. So grateful to her xx, it's a Fantastic place for all ages! So much history, the videos are following from where the previous one left. Kids get excited about it too, there is a place where the little ones can do activities and so much more. We'll definitely be back
Natalia Rogojina — Google review
Lovely experience. The staff wore extremely friendly and helpful. Amazing car collection. Definitely recommend. It's a must see. I traveled 1 hour for this experience. Parking around the museum is a bit hard but with google maps you should be able to find somewhere to leave the car.
Alexandru Dodoiu — Google review
Absolutely love this place - it's as much a history of manufacturing in the Coventry area as it is about transport.
I loved seeing all the old bikes, motorcycles, cars and other vehicles on display. A particular highlight was the Jaguar Heritage collection of about 20 historically significant cars from the most local of car manufacturers.
The picnic area with tables and chairs half way round was very welcome, as was the accompanying children's play area (a large brio track was very much enjoyed by our daughter).
Budget about 4 hours for a reasonably in-depth visit, a lot more of you want to read everything on offer.
There is a café adjoining the museum on the ground floor - perfect for tea/coffee and cakes as well as some warm dishes.
An added bonus is that your ticket gives you access for 12 months so you can go back as much as you like in this time.
Simon Reeves — Google review
Museum is focused on locally produced transport and just the right size to walk around easily in 1.5 hours. I'm a Jaguar fan, hence the pictures, but there are plenty of other manufacturers represented, many of whom I've never heard. The museum is laid out in a time-line and is well worth a visit.
Dave Ashford — Google review
Absolutely loved Coventry Transport Museum,
My brother and I were in Coventry for the day and decided to pop in. We spent a good few hours going around the museum.
There's so many cars on display, that takes you through the history of Coventry's manufacturing heritage.
On site café: No
On site restrooms: Yes
Parking: No onsite parking (City centre)
Kids Play Area: Yes
Lil_miss_57 — Google review
Not a bad transport museum at all, some nice exhibits, all well laid out and lots of different vehicles to see. It leans heavily on the historical aspect of Coventry being a major producer of transportation. The entry fee is worth the £11 it costs and the ticket is then valid for a full year. There is also a very nice cafe at the main entrance and a decent shop also.
Si Ames — Google review
We've visited a few transport museums in our time, but the experience at Coventry transport museum is beautifully crafted. From the moment you enter, you'll be led round the museum by some wonderfully theme road signs and taken through a history of cars, bikes, and the industry that powered them. There's a number of interactive experiences throughout, a huge variety of different automobiles to see, plus some legendary vehicles like those that broke the land speed record.
Oliver Little — Google review
Very informative and layed-out very nicely. Some very impressive cars and bikes. Having a quick look at most of the museum pieces it took us 1.5-2 hours to see everything. Tickets cost £15.50 each on the door for adults, these tickets last for 1 year.
Ethan “The” Boss — Google review
The museum is interesting, lots of things to see. They have some activities for kids to keep them busy but not all of them are working.
The price is a bit high but the tickets are valid for a full year.
The rest area is not as clean, based on my standards. The toilets are not smelling and they are clean.
Razvan Dumitru — Google review
Brilliant museum for all the family. Pay once, get a full year of unlimited visits. What more can you ask for. Perfect for learning more of the history of car manufacturing in Coventry itself
Mark — Google review
I had such a great time here I last visited over 20 years ago and things have changed for the better. If you have a spare hour or 2 free I'd recommend you pop in to the transport museum. It takes you through the ages from bikes all the way through to modern cars and to the world's fastest car. It focuses on the vehicles built in and around Coventry and the amount of vehicles on display is amazing. I also went on the bloodhound simulator which was an interesting way of explaining how fast it went. A really good day out especially if you have been before or haven't been for a long time.
ravinder singh — Google review
I was coordinating a wedding celebration here in their private room upstairs and took a look around the transport museum whilst there.
Very busy with all ages, in a good way, and the staff were very helpful throughout the day whilst setting up the room. Great coffee from their cafe too!
Jane Robbins — Google review
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4.5
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Millennium Place, Hales St, Coventry CV1 1JD, United Kingdom
Bradgate Park is a beautiful, large country park located about 20 minutes north west of Leicester. It is home to many deer and contains interesting prehistoric rocks dating back over 500 million years. There are many walking routes to choose from, as well as a playground and stream.
Wonderful park, we had a great day out pretty much walking for hours, climbing on rocks, picking up sticks, crossing streams, watching animals - a whole day of adventure. It was quite busy, but when in the park you couldn’t really tell.
We had a spot of lunch at the cafe next to the car park. It had a good choice of food and wasn’t expensive. I enjoyed a Cornish pasty that was really nice. We tried to get back to garb an ice cream, but didn’t realize it shut at 4pm on Thursday.
The staff/volunteers at the tower were super informative and it was well worth the climb to the top.
Beautiful views from the summit. Totally advise going here.
Car park was £3.50 for the day, pay by card at the exit. Plenty of spaces available.
Paul Foulkes — Google review
We visited Bradgate Park for the first time on April 9 2022 and have to say we were pleasantly surprised. I had been worried that its close proximity to Leicester might spoil the atmosphere somehow. As it turns out, Bradgate is a huge expanse of parkland with large areas of (enclosed) woodland. Parts were steep and rugged, like Dartmoor, and there's a folly on one hill and a war memorial on a nearby hill. It has an open, airy feel and the hills offer beautiful views across the countryside. Even the city doesn't look too bad from up there! As we walked we kept discovering new areas, it seemed never ending. Some of the ancient trees are amazing, and it was good to see deer still roaming as they would have done hundreds of years ago. Our main purpose, however, was to see the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey, which was obviously a grand and beautiful place in its day. We were slightly disappointed that we couldn't go in the ruins (there was a sign saying something about deadly nightshade?) but it was time to be heading off anyway. For that reason, and the fact that the toilets at the car park (Newton Linford) were not clean or in good working condition, I'm only giving 4stars. Still, we'll definitely be returning to explore some more, as we haven't seen it all and want to try the tea room.
Jon Clynch — Google review
Summer's here, and Bradgate Park is the go-to spot for us Leicester folks. It's like, one big park, but there's so much to do. It's super chill and relaxing. The kids love watching the deer and peacocks, and they go wild climbing up and down the slopes.
I totally recommend it to all families when the weather's nice. Local parks are cool, but Bradgate Park is on another level!
Kasim Khilia — Google review
Beautiful place, caught on the off chance of looking for places to go. Its a 20 mile drive from us yet we've travelled further for less of a view or walk. Absolutely stunning place. Definitely going again with a all day ticket. The deers were a added plus I loved seeing them that close very human friendly but didn't want to get to close to them as of course it is there land not ours
Charlie Fowler — Google review
Visited for the first time. Absolutely gorgeous park, I was in complete awe of all the deer. It’s a relatively flat walk around the lake and to the cafe however, does get rockier and steeper as you go up to Old John. Options to paddle in the stream and lots of open space to play some games. Suitable for families.
Adele Bowman — Google review
Bradgate park has plenty of walks to go on. Stunning scenery and amazing views.
Ruins open some times. Fre of charge
Stay on the path for wheelchair and pushchair accessibility.
Deer around so take caution they are nice to see but it is there own environment.
Parking is pay on exit now
Annie Charles — Google review
Lovely park. Paths for all abilities.
Multiple car parks, the two we have tried both had toilet facilities and parking wasn’t too expensive.
All the staff that we met were very friendly. Facilities are great, lovely and clean serving superb coffee and cake.
dev tug — Google review
Bradgate Park in Leicester is typically known as a serene family escape, offering respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. However, recent events saw a significant shift in its tranquil atmosphere as crowds, adorned with Palestinian flags, gathered. This unexpected presence altered the park's usual ambiance, prompting park rangers to take decisive action by involving the police as the crowd size grew. Despite this disruption, Bradgate Park remains a cherished destination for families seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature's beauty.
Andy Singh — Google review
I love this place. I discovered it the day I visited and it was a really enjoyable visit. Seeing the beautiful wildlife roaming free was great. I took my DSLR camera with me, and I'm so glad I did. I'd recommend this place to anyone who loves the outdoors and wildlife. Even those who enjoy photography!
Carly Clarke — Google review
It's such a beautiful park, and it's a really lovely walk through Bradgate Park. Went to the ruins of Bradgate House also. This was actually my first time at Bradgate Park - it's definitely a national treasure. There is a visitors centre offering ice creams, bagels, waffles and hot drinks. I'm not sure about dairy free versions of anything, so it's probably best to take your own so as not to be disappointed. Reasonable prices and lots of parking.
R M (Robbi) — Google review
I've been coming here since I was a baby (a very long time!!), it's one of the most beautiful places. There is a stream running through that is clear and very shallow in places, Ideal for children and dogs to cool off. There is a large herd of deer which roam around. There are walks for people of all abilities, from the fairly flat tarmacked road that runs all the way through, to the more challenging hill paths for those that feel more adventurous. The perfect place for families, walkers, sightseers and those that want to escape and enjoy some peace and tranquility. There is also history to explore in the ruins of the house where Lady Jane Grey lived. It's MAGNIFICENT!!!
Ben Allen — Google review
Lovely trip to a wonderful park. Great open spaces and great for the dogs to run free in certain areas. Good parking but not very good phone service when trying to pay via app. Plenty of services around. Well managed
Anthony Barrass — Google review
Love this place.
Excellent place to go with the kids and dog and get some energy off while exploring the the wildlife with fields of deer, brook with swans/ ducks and learning the history of lady grey and exploring the ruins.
Love the little shop with ice creams and various hot and cold snacks.
There's also a cool little museum with educational aspects.
Overall very good
christine thomas — Google review
Visited on Sunday it was beautiful walk trough the park with amazing views and nature. Absolute gem to spend day and explore with friends or family, dog friendly and have paths for horse riding . If in the area I’ll definitely recommend to visit. Parking is on site and is £5 per day.
Dada ZD — Google review
What a gem of a place 💎
Came up to Leicester to visit a friend from uni and she suggested going on a walk around here and it was so much fun! The area is gorgeous and well looked after. Investigating the ruins of the old house was an unexpected adventure but was really fun and interesting. Couldn't believe how close we could get to the deer 😲
As a warning, it's a good idea to turn up early as the car parks were full/closed when we arrived, so we had to park further away in a no return within 2 hours zone which added a bit more walking to our trip 😊
Eleanor Jones — Google review
The moat wonderful day out for any age spectacular scenery delightful little cafe to stop at I could go on but you really must take a visit and see for yourself how truly wonderful this place is 🫶 next time I'm bringing a picnic and staying all day because it's thay big you need a whole day to explore it properly ♥️
Claire Cooksley — Google review
Very nice park to go to with anyone or even yourself just for a walk and to enjoy nature. It feels amazing to see the deer's so free and just chilling in the park.
Just be careful with the poop that'll be all over the place 😂😂
Abraar Majid — Google review
A great way to combine exercise with nature.
A beautiful and very scenic destination not far from Leicester.
We always end up with some great pictures of the deers.
Aamer Mahmood — Google review
Absolutely beautiful setting.
The wild deers and birds are abundant. There are miles of walks for all. The river is lovely. Plenty of open space for play and picnics. Lots of parking at a reasonable cost.
Cafes are quite pricey but offer a good range of refreshments.
A great day out in beautiful countryside
gary young — Google review
Lovely park. Car park wasn’t too busy. Nice to walk up the hill and see the view. Spent a while figuring out where everything is! Perfect for dog walks!
Paige Cunningham — Google review
Great place for walks. Well maintained roads and signs. Loved the fact dogs are on leash and Deers can roam freely.
Nidhi Chavan — Google review
This is a beautiful place but parking is a nightmare.So many people out walking with/ without dogs, running, children riding bikes. Love the cafe at the main entrance. Staff were friendly and helpful as was the assistant in the Barn, where a variety of venison is available at a reasonable price.
Liz Clark (Purpletwiglet) — Google review
Easily the best outdoor place you can visit in Leicestershire for free (if you don't count paying for parking , but it does go to the upkeep). Miles and miles of tracks and trails through some quintessentially English countryside with free range deer mooching about and the odd peacock. For those who prefer a solid path there is a nice wide path that runs through , buggy and wheelchair suitable. Cafe does decent coffee and cake.
In summary . It's beautiful you should visit
Barcode Zombies — Google review
A beautiful park, with many hiking options. So much history! And the deer are fun too! Very accessible with a wide, paved walkway through the park.
Laura Bowley — Google review
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4.5
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Newtown Linford, Leicester, LE6 0HE, United Kingdom
Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is a large and well-known museum in Birmingham, England. It has a wide range of exhibits, including treasures from ancient times to modern art. The highlight for kids is the Staffordshire Hoard, which includes some of the oldest pieces of Saxon jewelry ever found.
It looks like a very beautiful building, unfortunately we haven't been able to get inside yet. But you can look at the building too, it's quite beautiful, it's a pity that the works block some of the views.
John — Google review
The part of the museum that were open were hit and miss for me, I enjoyed the movie theatre section, but found most of the other exhibits a bit uninspiring, probably because the topics are not of interest to me. I would have liked to have seen the full collection as I believe there is better items currently unavailable due to the ongoing works. I must return one day and see the rest to give it a fair judgement.
Matt Roberts — Google review
Took my daughter to see an exhibition to be honest I can’t remember what it was but I was intrigued. The process of buying tickets online and the set up inside was impressive. It was nice to get a bit cultured so to speak and I’d like to go back again for future presentations. Ideally situated within the heart of the city with transport links giving easy access you can’t complain. Definitely a nice place and would recommend to visit if you have the chance
Neil Reid — Google review
A bit disappointed for travelling a long distance to find out that the museum is closed for renovations till 2024. So only a small area of the gallery is opened. Look forward to its reopening.
Daniel Chan — Google review
Closed for refurbishment but Victorian Radicals exhibit (paid) is open. Very informative on the Pre-Raphael’s and arts and crafts movement.
Vince Jones (Whole Picture) — Google review
Magnificent building which has just been refurbished. Only partially open (free entry), but has enough to keep you interested for an hour or so. Very inclusive exhibits about the people that made Birmingham and a really interactive exhibit on the history of the city’s cinemas. Lovely looking Edwardian cafe and large gift shop. Can’t wait for the rest of it to be finished! (Took one star off as I couldn’t read some of the descriptions on the walls, as many were too far away to read and the type was small.)
Paula Pardoe — Google review
I always enjoy visiting this museum. Unfortunately it is undergoing substantial renovations at present and so only a couple of galleries ok
Plus gift shop and Edwardian Tea rooms are open
Having said that, it is still worth visiting since there are some interesting exhibits to inspect.
I found the short animated film Child of Empire to be most interesting and moving. There is also an interesting exhibition about cinemas in Birmingham which could well bring back memories.
The museum will close in December 2022 and will not open again until 2024 when it is intended to have all of the galleries open
Paul Hallgarth — Google review
Beautiful Old Architecture Historical Building. And Tourist Attraction and in the Heart of Birmingham, inside the complete History of Birmingham and Arts & painting, Stories about Decades,
Yasir Mirza — Google review
Can't wait to come back to see the completed renovation.
The wilded front steps around the fountain were stunning.
The exhibitions that were open were a great incite into the city's varied and colourful past.
Cara Price — Google review
Looking forward to be able to go in again. miss wandering around it's interesting mix of collections
Dom — Google review
Wonderful Pre-Raphaelite exhibition in a beautiful building and surrounding architecture. The staff couldn't be more friendly and helpful. ♥️
Julia Hollis — Google review
Return of pre raffalite art to Birmingham after long absence. Nicely presented collection.
Donald Henderson — Google review
This was a fascinating museum to visit, displaying much cultural artwork and pieces related to Birmingham! There are exhibits focusing on certain city aspects like clubbing, racism and film; the third was the most interesting with its section Wonderland. A special addition is the old cinema seats that visitors are invited to sit in, also a separate corridor shows museum objects from over time!
K. Peake — Google review
What fantastic afternoon, we spent there! Beautiful building, inside and out! Lots to see especially this week as it's half term. Saw stuff they were showing the children that were part of my childhood😁 my kids were bright eyed over the exhibits and were interested to see and hear what the staff was explaining to them. The cafe was absolutely beautiful, and tastefully furnished. The whole place was a joy to go through and the kids enjoyed it as much as me!😊there was lots of exhibits to see and some to interact with, they also had a room for the kids to play in.
The staff were fantastic and enthusiastic! Thanks for a brill day!😀
Patricia Vallely — Google review
The building from outside is magnificent. It is well kept in the inside with Marple floors and stairway. 2 floors are currently open for public. I will only give 3 stars as this museum had very very few valuable or historic items in display. All what I could see was modern paintings, photos, portraits, few LED screens and TVs with repeating videos. This city has a very old worldclass history in industry, steel, military, innovation and others during the 17th to 20th centuries . I am sure you could easily find thousands of anient pieces that worth being displayed. The good thing that it was free to enter that day.
Rami Salameh — Google review
4.5
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4.5
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Chamberlain Sq, Birmingham, B3 3DH, United Kingdom
The new 31,000-square-meter public library in Birmingham, England is a modern marvel that features a subterranean amphitheatre and panoramic views over the city. The building also has gallery spaces, 160+ computers, and a cafe. The British Film Institute Mediatheque provides free access to the National Film Archive.
The Library of Birmingham is a true gem in the city's cultural landscape. From its striking modern architecture to its vast array of resources, it's a haven for book lovers and knowledge seekers alike. The building itself is an architectural marvel, with its sleek lines and glass facade inviting visitors to explore within.
Inside, you'll find an extensive collection of books, periodicals, and multimedia resources catering to a wide range of interests and disciplines. Whether you're delving into history, exploring the arts, or studying the sciences, the library has something for everyone. The layout is spacious and well-organized, making it easy to navigate and discover new treasures.
However, it's worth noting that the library can get quite crowded, especially during peak hours and on weekends. This can sometimes make it challenging to find a quiet corner to read or study, particularly if you prefer a more peaceful environment. Nevertheless, the staff are always friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere remains welcoming despite the hustle and bustle.
Tip: There is a secret garden on top of the library where you can go for free. You can see the landscape of Birmingham from there and it’s quite photogenic. Escalator to the garden was faulty when we went there so we asked the lady and she said we could use the lift. It was lovely.
Sudin Subedi — Google review
Its a grand location, beautiful building. Its a little complicated getting around, whilst there are signs, and the staff are really helpful. There is a lot of unused space and shelves. The computers are somewhat quirky. The Secret Garden and the Shakespeare Memorial Room, and the view across the city are amazing space. Highly recommend.
Mohammed Husnat — Google review
Modern building with loads of books, reference archives, study zones spread across the floors and a kids area on the lower ground floor . There’s also a large viewpoint with seating. All areas are wheelchair friendly and multiple lifts. One of the escalators was inoperable during our visit but you were able to walk through, all lifts worked
Andy Binks — Google review
Amazing experience… I am a huge book lover and just roaming inside the library was indescribable!!! They have all sorts of books and the view of the city from the garden is soo great!! Totally a must visit place if you are in Birmingham…. Ps. Don’t forget the view!!
Hanan Muhammed — Google review
The most beautiful and impressive library I have ever seen. More than 10 floors full with books, maps and documents. There are several terraces with plants and amazing view of the city. It's a definitely something you must see in Birmingham.
Marian Neichev — Google review
This library was really nice, didn’t know Birmingham had a nice library like this. Didn’t have the opportunity to read a book or study there but definitely will in the future. It was quite quiet and everyone minded their own business. When I came the private booths were closed off so when I do visit again I hope they will be accessible to the public.
Fahmida Begum — Google review
A very unusual but beautiful building. There are two outdoor garden terraces, children’s spaces and a panoramic viewing gallery at the summit, where visitors are able to enjoy stunning views from one of the highest points in the city.
John — Google review
The Library of Birmingham offers a breathtaking top view of the city, providing a unique perspective that captivates visitors. The panoramic scenes from the library's vantage point are truly spectacular, allowing patrons to appreciate the city's architectural beauty.
One notable aspect of the library experience is the infusion of Shakespearean charm. As you ascend in the lifts, you're greeted by Shakespeare quotes, adding a literary touch to the journey. It's a delightful nod to the literary legacy that Birmingham proudly embraces. The clever incorporation of these quotes adds an intellectual and cultural dimension to the overall experience.
The library's commitment to Shakespeare's thoughts not only pays homage to the literary giant but also enriches the visitor's journey. It's a thoughtful touch that sets the Library of Birmingham apart, making it a must-visit literature enthusiasts. It also has a music section where records and piano scores are available for certain set of albums.
In addition to the captivating top view and Shakespearean ambiance, the library's well-designed architecture and modern amenities make it a welcoming space for diverse interests. Whether you're a bookworm, a history buff, or someone simply in search of a peaceful spot to enjoy the cityscape, the Library of Birmingham exceeds expectations. It seamlessly blends modern functionality with cultural significance, making it a gem in the heart of the city.
Parth Khadatkar — Google review
Interesting building particularly the inside levels. Great viewing area on the 9th floor which also has a small Shakespeare room. Good spaces for study and lots of books. Definitely worth a visit even if just to go up the escalators.
Gaius Walker — Google review
Heaven for book lovers, the Library of Birmingham is one of the modern libraries. With an immense collection of books and journals, it is the perfect place for students to find what they are looking for! Still managing to keep the history together, the Shakespeare room on L9 is being renovated using the original wood and knobs of the Library. View from the secret garden of marvelous, one can view Birmingham's beauty from up there.
Akash Sareen — Google review
Definitely worth a visit. Enjoy a free view of Birmingham from the 3rd floor terrace and the 7th floor secret garden. Also the interior itself and the Shakespeare room on the 9th floor are nice. Good place to bring kids as the inside looks like a dark sky with stars.
Lars Richter — Google review
Most serene experience that I’ve had in a while. Felt amazing to be there amongst the best books and pages in history. It’s a surreal experience indeed to be there and bask in the beauty of the place. The rooftop is beautiful as well a where you can actually hang out for sometime and have a beautiful view of the city and buildings from the terrace. It’s worth a visit for every individual who visits Birmingham.
Mehnaz Alam — Google review
One of the great piece of infrastructure and a must visit place in birmingham city center . This library is the largest library in Europe . Inside environment is very classic and outside is too mesmerising. Best place I like in here is its balcony sections with sitting place where u can enjoy beautiful view of surroundings.
Best place for bookish insects and tourists also . 👌
Arslan Shamoon — Google review
Beautiful and modern building library. Walking distance to the high street. Lot of book and seat can sit and watch. When you going up to 3/F, like entrance Harry Potter world. Also, go to the sky garden can see far far away view. It amazing view. If have time, must be visiting.
Vincent Chan — Google review
I was visiting here more as a tourist and not a regular library user. It is a very nice library, architecturally. And especially the Shakespear library was a key feature of interest due to its history. There are several viewing points (albeit the views are a bit underwhelming)
Isuru Nanyakkara — Google review
What an amazing library!
There is 3 roof top areas and a secret garden all free with fantastic views of the city.
It has a cafe, shop and toilets and oh yeah lots and lots of books.
I wish this was my local library its absolutely stunning!
Mrs Foster — Google review
Visited this library during my short stay at a nearby hotel.
It's a beautiful place inside and out. There's so much to do for everyone, no matter the background. The views from the top are stunning.
The best thing about it is that it's free. There's books, Internet, food and all sorts available here. A great place to catch up with friends, colleagues, family and meet new people.
The Visitor — Google review
The views here are wonderful! Love the herb garden and amazing Outlook. Enjoyed spending some time in the history section looking at local maps too.
Joëlle — Google review
It is free entering at any time,but be careful the secret gardens are not open l,whole year. I have visited them in march so they are definitely open. On very top 9th level you can visit Shakespeare memorial room with skyline view. All for free.
Tomas Osvald — Google review
Definitely one of the most impressive libraries, brimming with fascinating local history while offering top-notch service.
The Birmingham Library is a monumental literature home with four floors. If you're not cautious you can get actually get lost but you can always take a break in the many cafes littered around.
Pros
- A very remarkable collection of books in every section.
- Thye length of the building is surreal, with three to four floors to explore: it truly feels like you spend an entire afternoon exploring and still have something new to see.
- The walls are littered with impressive works of art while citing the local history.
- It has a considerable amount of studying booths, din cafes c, cafes, and seats to rest.
- The kid's zone is simply adorable.
- The manga collection although small contains both Berserk and Monster.
Cons
Some of the elevators were out of order...
Katsu Rana — Google review
The library is truly exceptional, offering ample space and remarkable organisation. Moreover, it caters to families, making it an ideal choice for all.
Salim Miah — Google review
Went to a great event in the children's library today. A Mad Hatters tea party with lots of crafts, activities and messy play for the children. So much effort and imagination put in by the staff involved. Fantastic!
liz newlands — Google review
**Review of Birmingham Library**
The Birmingham Library is a stunning piece of architecture, and a must-visit for anyone in the city. The building is clad in reflective metal, and its angular design gives it a futuristic look. The interior is just as impressive, with soaring ceilings and a light and airy feel.
One of the best things about the library is its secret garden. Located on the seventh floor, the garden offers stunning views of the city skyline. It's a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city below.
There is also a lift from the seventh floor to the top of the building, where there is an even better view. The lift is free to use, and it's a great way to see the city from a different perspective.
Parking is available at Snow Hill, which is just a short walk from the library. The parking costs £7.20 per day, but you can save money by booking in advance or using an app.
The library is also well-served by public transport. The nearest bus stop is just outside the library, and there are also several train stations within walking distance.
Overall, the Birmingham Library is a fantastic place to visit. It's a great place to read, study, or simply relax. The architecture is impressive, the views are stunning, and it's easy to get to by public transport or car.
**Rating: 5/5 stars**
**Recommended for:** Everyone!
Drayton Manor Theme Park is home to a wide range of rides and attractions based on classic stories like Thomas the Tank Engine. There's also an enormous indoor play area with plenty of activities for children of all ages, as well as a large zoo full of exciting animals.
First time I've been here, and I'm a big fan of theme parks. Yes it's not Thorpe Park or alton towers, but it's got some great thrill rides. It's definitely more for families, but don't let you put you off. It's a beautiful looking Park with great theming and plenty to do.
gary lusk — Google review
Such a fantastic experience for fans of Thomas, regardless if age! We spent 6 hours here, solely in Thomas Land, going on all the different rides, visiting the Thomas exhibition and just generally enjoying the experience. My little boy is 3 and a half and he was just completely in his element. He made it on to 10 rides in total, there was a couple we didn't get on due to big queues, but there's definitely a lot for little ones and you could easily spend a day here no problem. If I was going to be super critical, I would say they could do with two staff per ride, just to speed things along a little. But apart from that, it really is a fantastic day for all the family. I would highly recommend it!
Dub Bel — Google review
Loved visiting this place!
This was my first time being able to get here and it looks as though its had a remodel within the last year or so as everything looked fresh and clean and there are also new parts of the park being worked on currently.
The park is so big that I will have to come back again and possibly stay in the modern looking hotel as one day was not enough to get around it all.
I'm not sure if there is an app for it but no need to check for ride times as queue times were very short and was able to get on rides in no time at all!
The only downfalls are that there could be a bigger range of healthier food as I didn't see anything healthy at all, there was mainly cakes, icecream, pizza, etc... and also overheard a staff member say to a customer that they didn't think they were getting their lunch break that day. Staff need breaks!
Gal — Google review
we visited during the school holidays. lot to do for a day for kids. One day should be enough to cover most of the rides. Can stay another day to explore in detail. there was a que in the beginning to get on rides, luckily the waiting times got better as the day went and the people start exploring different activities. The food was not very great and pricey. Recommend to take a picnic. Staff were friendly. The ticket price was reasonable compared to other similar parks . we got 4 for £115. The kids were happy and had a lovely day.
Tins Tom — Google review
We had a lovely day here. The staff at guest services were very helpful. Unfortunately, my Nimbus card hadn't arrived, but they were able to issue an access band as I had the email to say it had been accepted. There is still an element of waiting, and it is the disabled guest plus 3 others that's able to use.
I experienced the medical room,as I was stung by a wasp. The first aider on duty was very helpful.
The only issue I had was leaving the car park it took an hour. We were parked in the disabled bays at the back of the park, and we have never normally had an issue on previous visits, but maybe some staff helping to control the traffic. All In all, fantastic day out, Thomas land is fab for younger children we rode the Thomas the tank train to the zoo. There is a dinosaur trail and lots of animals to see. The water ride is a must ride just have a change of clothes as you literally get soaked to the bone it was 5pm ride close and 530 park close which in August is a bit early especially if you have a day ticket as you do find yourself rushing from one place to the other.
Sarah Gwilliam — Google review
Visited Thomas Land with our two children aged 4 and 2 at Easter. Had an excellent time with great rides for the children and the staff were all very friendly. The wait times on most of the rides for the children was very minimal and sometimes there was no queue at all. There is a dinosaur trail at the end of the park at Thomas Land which was an unexpected surprise that our children loved along with a large playground so plenty for kids to do for the whole day. We visited from 10.30 to 5 and waited approx 20 minutes to get in with pre booked tickets.
Raja Bains — Google review
My son and I had a great day at Thomas Land at Drayton Manor. Great little rides and lovely zoo. We even got some free mice pies and a money box. My son has already said he wants to go back. There was a show on too every so often which was interactive. Great day for everyone.
Sarah — Google review
Great day out with the Kids. Loads to do for them. Thomas Land was a hit. The new Vikings area looked fun too, it's a bit small though and the queues were really long even for a weekday. Toilets kept nice and clean, staff very helpful, however shops are a bit pricey, you'd think with the amount you pay for tickets they wouldn't try to rip you off in their shops.
Judi Mania — Google review
Pleasant staff, however, felt that they were under equipped on safety and felt it was very remiss. Website states rides were open until 5pm nany were shutting before 4pm. We wanted a coffee most places also shut. Its not a place I would recommend due to wait on rides and 45.00 ticket price, and there was absolutely no offers available unless booked online beforehand , but 32.00 is a really expensive day out x
Jamie Capewell — Google review
First time visiting the resort and loved it. I traveled from London yesterday and the visit was well worth it. I purchased the tickets online a week before my visit and paid £130.00 for fast track including parking fees. The fast track ticket price was on special offer. There are more than enough toilets around the park, a nice variety of rides for all ages mainly for 6-14 years old who will enjoy the most and nice options for halal food although expensive. I strongly recommend you should get home made food and easy access pass or fast track pass. The queues for the rides are long and can be frustrating during school holidays. I am so glad we as a family of 5 brought fast track online tickets and managed to get on every ride we enjoyed twice. As I went on school holidays it was worth having a fast track pass.
Sujan Ahmed — Google review
Absolutely loved our day trip out to drayton manor. Lots of places to sit down have a drink and relax. So many things to do, literally there's something for everyone. Only downside about it is the prices of drinks and food. However the day ticket prices are of great quality. Would definitely go back again.
Kacey — Google review
Very enjoyable. Had young children with us and they loved Thomas Land. The show that was put on was brilliant. Lots of singing and dancing for the kids to join in. Lots of different rides for the kids. Plenty for the adults. Picnic areas around. Parking a plenty.
Belinda Coxon — Google review
My experience here was FANTASTIC!! This is a brilliant theme park! It has got everything (and more) that I was expecting. I really enjoyed my ride on "The Accelerator" and I got such a rush from "Maelstrom" that I will never forget. Truly a mind-blowing experience!
I visited the zoo afterwards and saw a Tiger for the first time in my life. I was really excited about this.
My only regret is that I didn't come early enough in the day, so I couldn't go on many rides, as the lines and queues are quite long, particularly for "shockwave" which I was really looking forward to, but couldn't experience. Next time, hopefully.
Enoch Olalude — Google review
Visited drayton manor (mostly Thomas land) for 2 days (Sunday and Monday). We have 1 and 3 year old boys. We all loved it here. All the children's rides are in close proximity to each other... Good for little legs. My two are huge Thomas fans but you don't need to be to enjoy the park. Friendly staff, good mix of rides, plenty of toilet facilities. Sufficient food and drink options also. We got a good deal with the stay and play accommodation. Very happy and will look to return when we can.
Jessica Walker — Google review
Been Twice now on peak days and it’s been quiet and so much fun.
Recently went for the Coronation Street Event. Managed nearly 30 rides as rides were open til 8pm. The Easy Pass system works really well compared to other parks and all the staff were so friendly.
Definitely Recommend 👍
ThemeParkJaden — Google review
Thomas land was great, especially for little ones. A little expensive on food and drink in the park though. Stayed in a Thomas themed room at the park hotel which was very good, had dvd player in the room, but would not have a wardrobe next to a child bunk bed. Also catch the zoo at a better time, as most of the animals seemed to be asleep or not even in their areas. Also the evening buffet at the hotel was not quite value for money. Breakfast on the other hand was value for money.
Tom Levick — Google review
It's a small resort with lots of character but an enjoyable day out nonetheless. We found that a couple of rides had a cue but the majority we could get on quit quickly. I loved the duplicity of the resort, as it meant that we could take a relaxing strole through the zoo area too which everyone enjoyed.
Rebbecca Gray — Google review
This is an excellent Theme Park, heading in the right direction. The improvements made over the last couple of years are awesome, and with a new coaster opening next year we will definitely be back!! We've had 3 amazing visits this year, the staff are lovely and there is good and well priced food, game stalls and merchandise. The Halloween decorations, The Haunted Express, Castle Of Shadows, DJ and Halloween atmosphere overall was incredible with fireworks to top it off! Fantastic days out each time.
Kurt page — Google review
Really good theme park for kids. Unfortunately my 3 year old was just a little to small to go on any of the rollercoasters as minimum height was 1m. But he could go on the majority of the flat rides which he loved. Thomas land was a favourite of his. The hotel was wonderful, with the Thomas rooms being a highlight. The little goody bag in the room was brilliant.
Jonathan Dobson — Google review
Amazing day out for children who are starting out with rides and rollercoasters (we had a 10, 8 and 6 year old). Wasn't too busy when we visited (on a Monday in half term) queued for no longer than 15 minutes. Easy for all ages to walk around. There was a 4d cinema experience, which was brilliant. A zoo to stroll around after you've had some lunch, plenty of picnic tables to sit at, even some under cover, and some places to grab food from also available (we took a picnic so can't comment on the quality of the food). Rory the Lion was out and about, bumped into him numerous times which the kids loved and he even does a disco! The only downside for us, but it really doesn't take away from the great day out, was they had run out of donuts and bubble waffles.
Jessibeth15 — Google review
Always a fun day out - with Thomas land being accessible for little ones it is a great first theme park to explore and the height restrictions are decent so even at 90cm (about three) there’s loads to go on. Plus the zoo and additional play areas and Thomas train ride means there is a lot to do. We love visiting for seasonal events - there’s always good offers on just after Xmas
The Amazing Adventures of Me — Google review
What a blast! So much fun for kids and families. The rides are very size restrictive. The park is worth a two day visit to make sure you have enough time. The hotel is very comfortable and well appointed. The customer service is top notch. The zoo is great. And it is worth the £20 to get all the digital photos.
Shadra Bruce — Google review
Good day out with Kids Pass
Park was much quieter to give us chance to have a good look around and enjoy the zoo.
Que's wasn't too long which was good too. Would definitely take this opportunity again!
Tarja Williams — Google review
Great place for kids. My youngest is 4, middle child 8 and oldest is 10. They all love it here. Think we did over 15 rides in Thomasland. Even had time for the arcade. Had a lovely chocolate and orange cake 😋 partner had pasta pot.
We found the playground but due to how busy/noisey it was my son who has autism couldn't cope. It would be nice to see more playgrounds in Thomas land but with so many rides we can't moan, spent the whole day here we is worthwhile.
Had a lovely walk to the zoo and managed to go on the playground for the first time (other times it's been too muddy) then got Thomas to take us back home.
Kim Fuente — Google review
Had a great day but not one of the big rides where open 😞 £6.50 for a tinned hotdog.. They should call them warmdogs. Great for smaller children, they do have some fun rides.
Simon Price — Google review
I really do like drayton manor. Several of the main rides were not operational, shock wave was bring revamped into a sit down coaster. There is a new coaster being built where the drop tower was (sorry can't remember its name). But this was out of season on a special blue light day.
The National Trust acquired Calke Abbey in the 1980s, halting decay of the building. The home is Baroque style and set in extensive parklands, with flower gardens and ancient deer park designated Site of Scientific Interest and national nature reserve.
We often visit to walk round part of the grounds. The park and gardens are lovely at anytime of the year, with a wonderful relaxing atmosphere. There are various marked walks of different lengths to explore. The house itself is worth a visit too, in addition to exploring the old farm buildings and tunnels.
We cannot visit Calke Abbey without having lunch in the excellent National Trust cafe/restaurant, with plenty indoor and outdoor seating areas.
On today's visit we had the added bonus of a visiting group of Rolls Royce owners.
Paul Wright — Google review
Beautiful place and one brilliantly set up for families. The estate itself is as to be expected from a National Trust property, gorgeous parkland, ancient trees, sheep and deer, beautiful house with fascinating history - this one is very different from others in that it has been deliberately left in its somewhat neglected state, which makes it even more fascinating. What sets this place apart is how well it's suited for families. Two cafes side by side with BBQs on summer weekends offering burgers from estate-produced meat as well as veggie ones. There's a path accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs, electric buggies available for those who have difficulty walking. This summer there are fantastic outdoor toys and games for kids in the former kitchen garden. There's a kids' playground and also a whole separate woodland kids' area called Calke Explore, with its own cafe, picnic tables and toilets. The walled garden is superb, with seasonally changing fabulous flowers, and the famous and very rare garden "theatre" with its tiered display of seasonal flowers and in autumn, a fantastic pumpkin and squash display.
I could go on as there are many other great things to see and do there, but the best thing to do is visit and experience it for yourselves. Take the kids and the whole family with you, everyone will find something to their taste there.
O R — Google review
Calke Abbey is a beautiful place to visit. I didn't go into the house as I had a dog with me. The estate is immense and there are plenty of dog walks where they can be off lead. In some areas near the house there are sheep and cattle so obviously dogs have to be on short leads. The cafe allows dogs and there is a special seating area for dog owners. The staff were friendly and as I was on my own carried my tray in the cafe for me as a bit difficult holding a dog too. The walled garden was beautiful and so many butterflies
Janice Macgregor — Google review
One of our favourite local National Trust locations. We regularly go, especially in summer to see the gardens and meadows.
You can easily spend a day exploring here, there are formal gardens, orchards, fruit/vegetable gardens, meadows with games etc in the summer for children. There's also fields and woods with lots of walks and deer, as well as a small lake with another circular walk. In terms of facilities there's a couple of cafes, shop, toilets and book shop near the ample car parking. Lots of places for picnics as well.
Laura Burden — Google review
One of my favourite National Trust properties to visit is situated in extensive grounds the house is in decline but very interesting rooms to look around with stables and underground tunnels which are quite spooky. The surrounding grounds have walled gardens which are a pleasure to walk around and a beautiful church on the hill . If you go through the dark tunnel from the walled gardens it takes you down to the lake . There are plenty of walks to do. Loved the way they dressed up the tunnels for Halloween.
Susan Hood — Google review
What a tranquil experience! A revitalizing journey through nature, with crisp, refreshing air, sunlight bathing the fields, the gentle sounds of flowing water, and the picturesque sight of the mansion and church, not to mention the deer and sheep. I'd gladly become a National Trust member just to revisit the Calke Abbey trails again and again. The staff has been incredibly friendly, the food delightful, and the quaint shop offers charming memorabilia.
There's a delightful play area for children, and I've noticed numerous dogs enjoying the trails, albeit on leashes to ensure the safety of the livestock. There are also plenty of designated eating areas for visitors to enjoy.
Nelani Naicker — Google review
This house is so different from any other National trust property I have visited. It really has been frozen in time with fascinating collections. The volunteers were so enthusiastic and knowledgeable and lovely to talk to. There are walks, deer, lambs, a walled garden, church and tunnels to explore. The cafe & restaurant are good too. A brilliant day out.
Corina Wheeler — Google review
A very unique National Trust property. When the trust took it over in 1985, it was in a dilapidated state and they decided to leave it as it is and just do basic maintenance. The Gardens are lovely and if like me you enjoy photography they are a great day out.
Stephen — Google review
Lovely parklands with lots of features added by the owners over the years. Walled gardens are beautiful with plenty of variety between the floral and kitchen gardens. The house itself is amazing having been deliberately preserved in the way it was found. Added to that is the tunnel connecting the house to the stables. Really enjoyed our visit and will be going back again.
Andrew Thoday — Google review
Such a great place so much to see how the house has changed from wealth to struggling to keep the estate in good repair. The walled garden was beautiful in autumnal colours, loved the little church. Well worth a visit.
Walter Bird — Google review
What a lovely day exploring. The house is described as an "un-stately home", and it is. Fascinating and amazing that it is frozen in time since the family left. A lovely estate to explore. A stag looking majestic in the sun and a herd mooching around. Even got to go in an ice house.
Mark Robinson — Google review
Lovely for a walk in the sun.
Was super busy when we visited this afternoon, so there were queues for the toilets and long queues for the cafe, so would probably avoid coming at the weekend in future and stick to weekdays.
However, beautiful scenery and a good walk, regardless.
The gardens are beautiful and the dahlias are absolutely stunning!
Ella S — Google review
We’re National Trust members and visit this property a lot. Lots of walking opportunities, beautiful gardens and woodland.
The staff are always really friendly and helpful and are always great with our kids.
We most recently visited for the Easter Trail and it was fantastic, our 3yo loved it and all the crafting too. Highly recommend!
Caitlin Alborn — Google review
Lovely day out with kids. Very dog friendly and accessible (apart from the actual house). The house is definitely worth seeing and staff are engaging, knowledgeable and happy to answer questions (even from children who have hundreds of questions). The gardens are beautiful. There's guided tours available and you could spend hours exploring the grounds.
Sunflower Field — Google review
This National Trust property is the most local to me and yet I do not visit it often enough. It is a large estate with parkland, walled/kitchen garden, deer park and pleasure garden with many areas to discover. There are various trails of varying lengths to explore as well as the Abbey itself which is a great period property showing the challenges faced with the financial upkeep of such a property.
A great property to visit... even just for the exercise the varied trails offer.
David Taylor — Google review
Very interesting place to visit; the NT have not fully restored the house, rather (made it safe) then left it in the state of decay they found it in after the family could no longer afford the upkeep.
An incredible amount of stuff inside, definitely the product of an obsessive collector. There are a huge number of stuffed animals, which is obviously not to modern taste, but we were told was considered a way to "view" animals close up in those days (there are just an uncomfortably large number, which is about 1/2 the original collection remaining)
Wonderfully helpful and informative volunteers, very good indeed.
Chris — Google review
A huge manor house on a grand estate. Beautiful grounds to explore greenhouse ice houses and a grotto. The house itself is in a state of disrepair, but it is interesting to see. Many rooms and tunnels to wander around. Ran by and cared for by national trust. The guides around the house are fantastic and answered many questions. Parking available.
Steven Moseley — Google review
The best day! Lovely gardens so beautiful! Full of vegetables and fruit and gorgeous flowers!
The staff in the shop were very friendly, toilets clean and lots to do!
Did the whole grounds, took a picnic and had a great day!
Sammi Simpson — Google review
Great place, kid and dog friendly too. So much to see here too. The gardens are beautiful, and there's even a stand you can take whatever fresh veg is picked that day from, there's a donation box.
I will definitely be going again to see everything else.
Amena Leg — Google review
Fabulous National Trust. Lots of friendly knowledgeable volunteers. Beautiful grounds & gardens. Fabulous walks for all abilities. Lovely cafe & digs made welcome on a short lead. The Autumn decorations were a fun touch. Well done team, sterling work 👍
Deb Wilkes — Google review
It's one of the best National trust i have done in a while !
The house is massive and there is so much to see.
The grounds / garden are perfect for a walks . We went in March and really enjoyed them , but they must be even more beautiful at spring when all the flowers are out.
Really recommend this place for a lovwly day out !
Camille — Google review
House is not the usual grand opulent building, but that's it's purpose to show the kind of faded glory. Park, open spaces and paths are great for an explore! Plenty of picnic areas and toilet facilities.
Paul Wilson — Google review
This is not the usual grand house you expect when visiting a National Trust property and this is the beauty of it. It’s full of artefacts. The volunteers have so much knowledge about the family that resided there and built the house. Discover the underground tunnels, explore the walled gardens and visit the church. Plenty of toilets. Lots of space and play area for smaller kids. Small shelter picnic area if the weather is wet. Plenty of outdoor seating if dry.
Rebecca Sinclair — Google review
What a great place! Lots to see. The house is fascinating and I've never seen so many stuffed animals in one place. We spent a good couple of hours engrossed in the house and its contents. Well worth a visit 😊
Roger Chapman — Google review
Really nice place. Nice parkland and deer. Large lake but small walk. The house ground floor as the rest wasn't open was ok. Garden and ice house was great. The tunnel was ace. The lights supposed to be on in December so it may get better there than.
#Scorpio “#Scorpio” — Google review
Beautiful grounds, will need to explore again as I've only scratched the surface of all the available walks. The house was interesting in it's unrestored state.
The medieval Lichfield Cathedral is famous for its three spires, and for the stained glass windows made from Herkenrode glass. It's also home to paintings from the Middle Ages, as well as gardens and buildings in The Close.
Lichfield Cathedral is one of the most iconic cathedrals in the UK. The structure, the design, the interior layout, and other historical figures are extraordinary and amazing. It was my first time to visit this city so I decided to go around the town. The maintenance of the grass is greener and well kept healthy.
Mabs Gadd — Google review
Definitely a beautiful quaint cathedral. Lots of interesting features to look at, even the medieval book display in the chapel. Also a nice walk around the grounds too.
Kyle Fox — Google review
Beautiful building. Is a must to visit if you are in the area. Colourful stained glass windows. Nice a quiet during mid week if you want to walk around and contemplate.
Claire Pilkington — Google review
Lovely cathedral. A lot to see and interactive information points are dotted around. Some interesting wall painting fragments and do sit in St Chads Head chapel. It is a beautiful place of tranquility. The entry desk is just as you walk in, so if you don't want to contribute then swerve that when you go in. There is a small gift shop and opportunities to donate something around the cathedral. The buildings around the area are also very interesting with a lovely place for lunch nearby
Julie Hemmings — Google review
A gem of a find in Lichfield, with the most amazing architecture I have seen in UK cathedrals. One would be mistaken they are indeed in the UK! Such beauty both externally with epic detail, and inside such grand design with high ceilings, stain glass windows, art, sculptures and more. Overall, a very peaceful place to visit and a highly recommended experience and visit to such a beautiful cathedral.
Harps Sohal — Google review
Wonderful history you can touch and enjoy close up. The moon was a draw for our grandchildren, but once inside they enjoyed a walk round and asked lots of questions, we'll worth a visit fir the architecture alone !
Graham Kindon — Google review
Went on the 11.00 am guided tour which was supposed to last 50 minutes. The guide was incredibly knowledgeable and obviously totally in love with the building. Fully recommended.
Lorraine Mitchell — Google review
Visited Lichfield Cathedral first time and so much impressed.
Definitely a remarkably beautiful cathedral. There are lots of interesting features to look at.
Lichfield Cathedral is open daily from 8.30am to 6.30pm Monday to Saturday and from 7.30am to 4.30pm on Sundays.
Admission is free, just voluntary donation. Tower tours are also available.
Aom Aomm — Google review
Beautiful building with so much history. So worth a visit. It always amazes me how these buildings were created way back when the only way to build was with man power, no machinery. How much work was put into them. Lichfield Cathedral is stunning.
Georgina Homer — Google review
We visited 19th February 2024.
It's the most beautiful building full of tranquillity, stunning architecture and fabulous stained glass windows. It's well worth a visit. Parking is reasonably close.
Dave Hurr — Google review
This is place is beautiful and medieval English cathedral, beautiful architecture.
Must visit place in UK. The town is serene and just walk down to the garden where there is artificial lake to site and enjoy the sunset
Shikha Singh — Google review
I was only in Lichfield a few hours and came across the cathedral by chance. What a gem to behold! Religion aside (not for me), this is a stunning cathedral with outstanding, intricate architecture. Inside it is beautiful. Huge ceilings, statues, carved wooden pews etc. It is free admission but they recommend a donation. £5 well spent to keep this amazing piece of history maintained. I spent an hour last n here just absorbing the history and splendour, but could’ve spent two hours quite happily!
Finding Balance — Google review
Came here to see the moon exhibition. Looked amazing for sure, would definitely recommend. Not sure about a holy establishment serving alcohol mind🤔
R Far — Google review
It is a fantastic building inside and out. It's free to go in, but a donation is always welcome. Guide books avadible to help you explore, and the staff are more than happy to help or just have a friendly chat. Nice little shop with a few bits in, and they have a few events on to look out for. Will be back to do a tower tour when they run again
Ashley Lightfoot — Google review
Fantastic old English church, with over 1300 years of history. Really a gem frozen in time. The nave is architecturally beautiful with a space that just seems to go on. The organ console (where the organist plays) is actually up in the second story in the nave. Must see when you pass though town. Exterior of the cathedral is weathered sandstone having many exquisite carvings and statues. Even the much younger (relatively speaking) Wooden Close building dates back to the early 1500s.
Jared Meaux — Google review
I was amazed by this cathedral. It was huge and gorgeous. I have visited couple of cathedrals but this is the biggest one I have ever visited. If you are traveling England please add this to your attraction list.
Nathasha Wijesinghe — Google review
A wonderful place to walk through the history of Stafford inside the cathedral. The cathedral staff were social and helful. Neatly maintained and entry is free.
Narasimman Sunderajan — Google review
If you go to Lichfield or even pass through its a must visit weather your religious or not. The architecture is amazing with statues and pieces of art work inside to suit. Has a lovely quiet and peaceful feeling inside.
It is free to visit they just ask if you can to make a donation that goes towards the upkeep and maintenance ect of the Cathedral. We really enjoyed walking round and it has plenty of photo opportunities. The cathedral also has shows/events held in there that are good we seen Elvis and it was brillian helped by the aquatics of the place
Travel & Explore — Google review
My first view of the cathedral was from The Close, and I just thought WOW. The main double fronted facade that faces you, is so impressive,and I think the majority of people would have the same reaction. Until visiting this weekend, I never knew Lichfield had a cathedral, and no one has ever said about it before. It has to be one of the top hidden gems to go and see. The interior is just has good , with outstanding stainglassed windows, the main Nave & Choir areas which are huge.
Richard Harrison — Google review
Went for the Gaia event. £5 per ticket. Beautiful cathedral. First time I've been to Lichfield. Would like to go again during the day as I would love to see the stained glass windows in the light.
Emma — Google review
I entered the cathedral and was just gobsmacked by the size of the globe. We spent ages exploring and even spoke to a vicar. Im a massive fan of church's and cathedral's, the architecture is just jaw dropping.
The staff were so freindly and inviting, i will be coming back and its well worth a visit.
The fair Rambler — Google review
In the modern age to combine community use and historic monument in this way- stunning. They placed a huge rotating dome in the centre isle with learning clubs for kids.
The ww2 area on the history of German prisoners in cannock chase was excellent and touching
Gulliver's Kingdom is a theme park for children aged 2-13 years old, with rides, attractions and play areas designed to keep them entertained. It is located in Matlock Bath, England and has been open since 1978. The park has over 60 attractions including a giant waterslide and the popular JCB zone where kids can operate the diggers and build structures. There are also pirate ships, a Nerf Zone, Dinosaur Kingdom and much more.
I booked this last minute and it was absolutely amazing! Lots of dinosaurs for the kids to look at and activities. Just one problem, there’s a lack of staff members when you need to ask for directions! Otherwise Such a lovely place honestly, so much fun for the kids. There was a boat ride and a bridge going across the park, there’s also a farm with animals and humongous insect models. Really awesome!
The wandering soul — Google review
Stayed here 1 night with 2 days theme park ticket. In the Explorers Suit. Was perfect for a family 2 Adults and 3 Kids! The theme park in on a hill so steep hills, and downhill at times too! Rides were really good, waiting in queues was not bad, kids sat on many rides again. The place is perfect for kids under 10 lots and lots to do! Will highly recommend anyone thinking of coming and a bargain for 1 nights stay with 2 days theme tickets for £200! My family made a lot of memories here, it amazing for kids! ❤
Samina Issa — Google review
Took my 2 grandsons for the day, amazing place so much to do. Workers all happy and smiley. When it started to rain ,there was indoor soft play, which kept the boys happy and entertained. No queuing. Great place for entertaining children.
Geraldine Barton — Google review
A fun theme park for younger kids. Our 7 year old found most of the rides a bit tame.
The parking is interesting! Don't try and park in the first section where the spaces are narrow and short. There is plenty of space in the other car parks higher up the hill.
The theme park is quite hilly and steep in places, but overall not that big. The queues weren't too bad early, but by mid-afternoon they were up to 50 minutes for the more popular attractions.
Adam Sewell — Google review
A good day out. The kids loved them. Every ride is run in a way that kids can enjoy them. Moreover, the adults can accompany the kinds in most of the rides. It seems one can pack their own food and bring it in, which I thought was a good policy. Just to give a heads up, the place has some steep inclines and declines. Some might find it difficult to reach all the areas of the place. Overall it was very good.
S Shahriar — Google review
Great fun for kids, some areas slightly tired but for price and fun son had was worth it.
Accomodation on site was fun we stayed in the pirate themed cabins.
Everything seemed moderately priced for a family day out.
Lee Raper — Google review
Great fun day experience. I took my grandson, shame about the weather. Enjoyed the rides, staff were very friendly. Ate at the cafe, needs slight improvement, curry source was poor had to be thrown away. Better signage for rides QR codes did not work on my mobile. Overall, it's a good day out and great value for money.
Bev T — Google review
Great place but its been forgotten by looks of it a bit run down and forgotten. Could do with a big clean, fresh paint and vegetation clearing . Some rides not working, most jcb did not work. Still it was a fun day and would recommend it!! Should be a discount in place for family tickets or small kids as could not use some rides if under 1.1meter …
Val Taz — Google review
Really good glacé bags of fun,great staff,reasonable prices. Only reason for a 4 * is mad parking and its built on a huge hill so loads of steep walking. I would go again cause its bags of fun, kids loved it. Go for it everyone,have a great time
danny glock — Google review
Great for the kids, you can be through in half a day and enjoy more that the peaks has to offer. We however spend the whole day.
My six year old had the time of her life, the staff were fantastic, the only disappointment was the state of the "restaurant"
Roger Poyner — Google review
This is a fantastic place! The whole place is built on a hill side, with rides and attractions on different levels and majestic views. The rides are suitable for all. The kids will love it. There's lots of places you can eat your own food and they have lots of snacks and hot drinks/food places. There is plenty of free parking. You'll find a lot of uphill walking, so be prepared for a few stops to take a breather! I'd recommend this place for all families with toddlers and young children.
Sikander Sheikh — Google review
Brilliant place to see and the kids loved the rides we was very lucky as it was predicted to be heavy rain.. so not many people. Hence the reason we did have to queue
Melanie Bramley — Google review
A really great place for younger children. A few attractions were closed off and some areas looked a little tired, not sure if this is usual for out of season as it was our first visit.
There's something for everyone here, and our children ran from one ride to the next the entire time. As it's located on a hillside, this helped to wear them out!
Check out all sections of the website for discount codes, as we got 20% off for the fright fiesta by following the right link.
L Thompson — Google review
Always a fab family day out at Gulliver's! Great for ages 6-9 but plenty to do if you've got younger kids too. Good range of food options, including pizzas, pastries, doughnuts, ice cream, slush. Chair lift is a good idea to get to the top or back down the hill too.
victoria mitchell — Google review
It's a lovely little park set right on the hill side and overlooks the town of Matlock bath. The park was clean and tidy and even though we went when it was busy we still managed to get on all the rides. My only reason for its 4 star rating is due to the parks age and some of the rides and themes are quite dated now but however this is reflected in the price. If you have a blue light card you can get 2 concession tickets making it slightly cheaper. Also as its set on the hillside it's very hilly and maybe not the best for wheelchair users and prams however this didn't deter people when we went. Overall a great day out and we will definitely be returning.
Rebecca Chance — Google review
Took my 8 year old for his birthday with family.
Advertisesd opening is 10.30am till 5.30pm, however many of the rides close at 4pm along with some of the food stalls which spoiled the final part of the day.
We felt that it was mostly the gift shops remaining, obviously to encourage more spending.
Food was very expensive. We took a picnic and advise you to do the same (you can leave it in your car until needed as access in/out is allowed)
Very much a younger child's park (6 to 10)
Not much there for older kids or young teens.
Staff were friendly. Site is clean.
Very hilly and not very suitable for disabled.
All in all a great day, only spoiled by the somewhat falsely advertised times. We're glad we booked the whole day tickets.
Word of warning - would not be worth booking the half day as you'd only have a very limited time to get on the rides that close early.
6/10 overall.
gary young — Google review
Fun day out with the family. Good variety of rides for young children.
I was disappointed by some of the basics that could be spruced up a little. Quite a few parts of attractions not working in the JCB zone and other more simple push buttons activities.
Some of the outside tables and seats were filthy, and considering the age of the place, the food, etc, was quite pricey.
Very, very steep hills all round and not suitable for visitors struggling with mobility. Even The Rock would struggle getting around in a wheelchair here.
It does close early and open later, though. Rides closed at 4 pm, even on a Thursday.
All in all, would I go back? Yes, given the fun day we had and the age of our kids. Not sure I'd go during the school hols though. Going just before most schools broke up made the queue levels acceptable.
Great for a 5 year old!
Daniel Burton Photography — Google review
We booked a day out at Gullivers Kingdom Matlock Bath for our twin girls who are aged 4 years, nearly 5.
We did want to go Alton Towers but the price of the tickets for under 5yrs is the same as an adults ticket which would have cost us £140 just for the tickets and that's before food, drinks and merchandise and the cost of fuel.
So, seeing that we paid only £66 for four of us and we took a packed lunch to cut down on cost, we thought this would be a good day out, and the twins would love it.
Park opened at 10:30am and closes at 5pm. We arrived just after opening, but even at this time, the car parks were quite full at this point.
The car parks were up a slopping and winding bank and you had to walk back down the banks depending on were you parked, there were no foot paths to keep too so it was a little dangerous with children in tow. On arrival, I noticed it looked a little dated, but this was first impressions. we got to the gates, and it looked like it was being run by school / college kids 16 years onwards that looked like everything was too much like hard work.
I forgot the coffee, so we decided to go and get a coffee from one of the nearby shops. Coffee signs outside, but they don't sell coffee (I thought it was a joke). Nope, the girl said you have to go to the top of the park near where you came in. So we did, and that's when we found that the shop didn't open until 12 pm (absolute joke). Luckily, we got the packed lunch for the girls and their juice, so they were okay. We walked around the park, and as I thought, everything was dated old and looked like it needed a complete overhaul.
The Park it's self is situated on a bank, so lots of walking up and down slopping paths which were slippery under foot due to the moss and plant / tree debris.
The toilets were awful, small and very smelly and situated next to the entrance.
For us as a family, we expected better and wished we had paid the extra price to go Alton Towers.
Needles to say we didn't stay as long as we expected, too, as we were very dissatisfied and disappointed with it all.
This park has had its day and needs to be updated or closed, in my opinion.
Jason Plumpton — Google review
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Temple Walk, Matlock Bath, DE4 3PG, United Kingdom
This is an indoor waterpark with a lot of interactive features. It is open all year round and is a separate attraction in its own right.
One of the best stays ever! Although we went into Alton towers on both days you could easily stay at the hotel all day! Fantastic place to visit with the kids!
The water pool was amazing! Great for all ages!
The outside area for the spar was very good.
I would genuinely recommend this place for all. The hotel room isn't the biggest or the most flamboyant but it's the water park your playing for.
Definitely worth the experience.
Amo Singh — Google review
Very good waterpark with original and nice staff. Unfortunately I found 3 minuses:
1. 55 minutes waiting on queue to the longest slider is really to long (We passed away this attraction)
2. Stairs under the water could be covered by something softer. My wife almost broke her toe.
3. Wasps outside. I'll recommend to take anti wasps spray.
However, it's really wonderful place for all families.
REMIK hercuń — Google review
Good weekend . Some arias looks tired . 2 rides not working , and 2 rids stopped while we in the queue after 40 min 🤨 . People smoking even weed in the queue. Much better value for your money abroad !
Hussam Bakar — Google review
Absolutely Amazing! We are coming here since kids where tiny and from then until now they are 11-8-6 years old. Great slides and you have a real sunny holiday feeling even I February when outside is cold and rain! Can’t recommend enough!
Bernadett Arvai — Google review
Best water park we've been in! There are so many slides, interactive bits, places to relax..
Plenty of life guards too so you don't need to worry and the baby section is well away from where big kids would play.
Jupiter Hadley — Google review
Great place to visit.. lots to do but really more suitable for older kids/ teenagers... not much to do for primary school kids.
Staff are friendly and helpful 🙂👍
Dino R — Google review
Fabulous stay with my two boys aged 5 and 7. Lovely and warm, not too busy despite half term, and food not too badly priced. Lots to do to make this a full day and would definitely return.
Samantha — Google review
Lots of walking. Rides are really scary 🥹.
1 day is not enough to explore everything.
Need 2/3 days to stay to explore the whole park.
Anyway had a good day for short visit. CBeebies section is good for children.
Recommend 😃
FUTURE EDUCATION CONSULTANCY SERVICES — Google review
Great day out, family of 2 adults and 2 kids £62 for 6 hours in the sub tropical paradise.
Great value staff really helpful and children didn't want to leave. Would recommend going when most schools are off like we did. Food we purchased was great as well
Christopher Brown — Google review
Brilliant place to visit with friends, family, and especially children.
Both the design and the facilities are state of the art: good quality and safe materials, fun games, slides, water guns, buckets, water currents/streams to travel on, pools of various depths, plenty of seats and tables, drinks, food, snacks and desserts (ice cream), etc.
Anyone over 1.1 metres can try the large slide, however, there's quite a long queue for that most of the time so it requires some patience to wait for your turn.
The water looked and felt clean from morning until the closing.
The changing rooms and toilets are also clean, easily accessible and conveniently located.
It's very fun, therefore kids often play here until they get totally exhausted.
It is worth every penny of the admission price. I can only recommend it.
Richárd Vámossy — Google review
Great for young children. Our son is 4 and a half and it was perfect for him. He loved the lazy river and most of the flumes he could go on with an adult. They are gentle flumes, some you use a rubber ring (with an adult) and others he can go on alone. Plenty to do for him. Outdoors was closed today, not sure why but looked nice.
Tracey Bonnell — Google review
This adorable little park is absolutely delightful, offering just the right amount of amenities. It's the perfect place to relax and have some fun with a pool and a couple of water rides. Everyone, from infants to the elderly, can enjoy themselves here. The water quality is excellent, the staff is friendly, and there's plenty of parking available. We had an amazing time with the kids!
anish abraham — Google review
We came during Easter and as expected the place was packed, however we still managed to have a great time, there was plenty of space in the changing rooms and even a table to eat. Lifeguards were on duty looking after everyone without telling people off all the time. We will definitely call again
Eduardo Conde — Google review
I have always loved Alton Towers going on all the big rides. This time took the kids for Cbeebies land and the water park, the water park was brilliant but be prepared for long ques for the slides if you go in the morning, also the monorail was not working so it was a good 30 minute walk from the hotel to the main entrance, only managed 3 rides as even Cbeebies land has que times of 60 minutes. We stayed in the splash landings hotel, the rooms we were very tidy and clean and kids loved the arcades, entertainment and all the other features.
Craig Gluning — Google review
First time here and we enjoyed it. There about a 20 min wait for some of the bigger rides. Would definitely return
John Gavin — Google review
Lovely place all together.
The staff is so amazing and so polite.
Waterpark is amazing
Definitely we will be back
Anca Elena Temea — Google review
Loved this place! All the family enjoyed from
Nearly two to nine. A small incident with a child pushing one of ours down the slide… anyway after checking he was ok management resolved it, all you can ask for.
Sarah Walker — Google review
Great day out for all ages, my 4 year old loved all the pools and the slides that he could go on. The massive bucket of water that tips is great fun to stand below. Both indoor and outdoor pools are a nice temperature.
If you want to eat or have an ice cream/lolly or a drink then bring a few Pound as it's not the cheapest but that's the norm with these kinda places.
Staff were friendly and helpful. Definitely would have no problem going back again.
Raymond Jackson — Google review
It was a great experience but I was expecting bigger rides. The indoor place is way too hot. I was happy to find the outdoor system jacuzzi and bit of fresh air. The blue ring rides were a bit waiting. Good place for group and family day out.
MAI HUXXAIN — Google review
Thoroughly enjoyed our trip to the waterpark today. Staff friendly and all water slides easily sign posted with rules and weight etc. Some of the area is looking abit tired and needs painting. Would visit again.
Rachael Holt — Google review
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Alton Towers, Alton, Waterpark ST10 4DB, United Kingdom
Located in Staffordshire, England, Alton Towers is a popular theme park with rides and attractions for all ages. It has a bold mission to make Britain happy and remains popular with young and old alike.
Never had a disappointing day over the many years of visiting...
Alton Towers has a variety of rides, set out across various themed 'Sections'. There's a good variety of rides whether you want speed, psycho coaster, a classic loop or something a little more subdued - so no one will be disappointed. Even kids can come and enjoy the smaller children's rides and amusements.
A lesser advertised gem is the grounds - there are some beautiful grounds and scenery to walk around, have a picnic in or just take an adrenaline break around.
Various choices of restaurants and food vendors available - all of course on the higher price range - but that what you would expect.
For less queue times, you can buy various graded fast tracks but the best way is to use your timings wisely. Mid week and during term time are always quieter times.
My Personal favourites:
Nemesis - Everything about this is a feel good classic coaster and could ride it all day.
Thirteen - whilst not particularly long or extremely, the psychocoaster element never ceases to amuse.
Smiler - Ultimate 'what day is it, what just happened' ride, you'll not know your top end from your bottom end but feel greatly refreshed for it.
Adam Jackson — Google review
Shame about the prices. Way too expensive when you actually think about it. Queues are horrendous unless you pay a fortune for fast pass. And if you are only taking your children and not really going on many rides even worst. But there are good things too. The castle is beautiful ( shame it hasn't been restored yet, if they ever will, it would be an amazing achievement) and the gardens are an incredible refuge from all the chaos around you. Fun paths, quiet ones and almost secret ones. Up and down there's paths everywhere. When you reach the Chinese temple in the lower lake the noise is almost gone. I walked around there for hours while my kids were on the rides. It was so peaceful. Beautiful. The only other downside was that even though there were some security guards walking around once in a while there were still people smoking stuff they shouldn't around there. The smell really ruined it.
Sara Guimaraes — Google review
Brilliant theme park with tonnes of different rides to suit different ages and thrill seekers. This was my first time visiting and will hopefully not be my last. We did the Halloween fright night and it was fabulous. I have been to the Thorpe Park one as well and would definitely say Alton towers was much better and scarier. The rides exceeded expectation, ones I would definitely recommend are Smiler, Oblivion, wicker man and Rita and Thirteen. The Halloween mazes were brilliant if very scary. You have to pay extra and book in advance for the mazes, but they are totally worth the price.
A 2-day pass for fright night starts at £56 pp. There is also lots of themed accommodation near the park. It is fairly pricey but a great little fun getaway. Fast track is good obviously but does come at an extra cost. The ride wait times can vary and during fright night can be fairly long (check the app as you go around to see the times). Also have a look at the offers as you can get some fast-track tickets which allow fast track on specific rides so might be a better option. Overall great theme park with lots of fun to be had!!
Cara — Google review
Loads to do for the kids waiting time was reasonable for all the rides The prices were what you would expect from a theme park and for us old people the house is well worth a look if you can get in which unfortunately on this visit I couldn't but on my last trip I was able to have a good look around.can also recommend a stay in one of there woodland lodges they are not big but adequate.They are clean and have plenty of towels etc.Also the location is fantastic my only complaint would be the prices in the little shop but with a Tesco only 15 minutes down the road this wasn't a problem. All the staff are extremely polite and helpful which makes for a pleasant change in this day and age.The buffet breakfast in the morning was lovely with plenty of choice and all the food was fresh and there was no wait to be seated.The mini golf that was in with the price was a good laugh and the waiting time was minimal. All in all a fantastic way to spend two days.
Paul Owens — Google review
Great day, very expensive because you need the fast passes to actually get to go on the good rides without having to queue for an hour and a half for each ride. The fast passes enabled us to go on everything we wanted. Beautiful park though, I enjoyed the flowers and scenery as I don't go on the rides. Would go again.
Carly Bedford — Google review
Alton Towers is definitely best with bigger kids, who can appreciate its thrill rides. But there’s plenty for younger kids too – my youngest loved the Farmyard with its gentle rides and attractions, the Ice Age 4D cinema, and the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory dark ride, culminating in a magical trip in the Great Glass Elevator. For kids still not sure or not yet big enough for the major coasters, there are other rides such as the Runaway Mine Train and the Flume.
Wasim Akram — Google review
I visited with my family yesterday and we all had an awesome day. My youngest wasn't really wanting to go on the big thrill rides where as my eldest son did. My wife took my youngest to all the family rides and activities while I took my eldest to all the big hit rides. The light on everyone's faces towards the end of the day when we regrouped was fantastic. Everyone had the best day.
Going during school term time is the key. Don't go during peak weekends. I've also been before during their Halloween event and that was so good!
Rick TheMelon — Google review
Wasn't too busy as out of season and we got a brilliant deal. Lots of entertainment and staff were great. The gangster granny ride had my kids shocked at the end it was brilliant. Their sea life was brilliant too, kids loved it and was free. Bring masks
Alex Sloan — Google review
First time going here. Will most definitely not be the last time. Thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. The rides are fantastic and comparing them to universal or Disney, they come out just as exciting! Oblivion was jaw dropping, thirteen was unexpectedly amazing, wicker man being a wooden coaster thrashes you around.
Tickets were £38 for each adult when booking in advance, and so was well worth it. The turnstiles were a bit awkward as if you didn't get through in one rotation or it locks, you can't use your ticket again. A friendly member of staff will sort this out for you though.
All in all, a thrilling and brilliant day, book in advance, don't bring bags with you if you can help it (I brought a coat with plenty of pockets), as they are not allowed on rides. Fast track would have helped as the queues on an off peak weekday were still upwards of 30 minutes, so essential on a holiday or weekend.
Mark Brereton — Google review
Love this place. Come every year. Beautiful grounds, kept clean, plenty of space to wander or sit and have a picnic (unlike Thorpe Park). Wear comfortable shoes and if you're not great with hills use the cable cars to move from sector to sector. Rides are rarely closed (unlike Thorpe Park). You can walk through part of the old Castle, you can walk the gardens and find ponds and lakes and wildlife. Oh and the rides are 👌🏻.
Sam Platten (Splat25) — Google review
A great couple of days, great rides, great location. Love roller coasters and these are some of the best.
Frustrating how often rides close. We wasted about 3 hours over the 2 days waiting in queues only to be turned away to come back later when they ride closed. I understand safety is paramount and I wouldn't expect anything less, but communication was extremely poor and announcements could not be heard in the queues. Also they need escape routes from queues. Getting to the front to be told to return the way you came through the queuing lanes just added to time wasted in the park.
Leaving the car park was a nightmare. Why not just add £1 per entry ticket instead of charging car parking and scanning tickets at the car park exit - it would reduce queues I'm sure! 🙂
Robert Houghton — Google review
Best theme park in the UK for sure. Brilliant 2 days (I would suggest going for 2 days if you want to do all the main rides, unless it's a particularly quiet day.)
Highlights are Wicker Man and The Smiler, fantastic rides.
Queues can be long, but it's to be expected. The only downsides are the prices for food and drink, but take a packed lunch and you're all good. Plenty of picnic benches etc all over the park.
Stephanie Ritchie — Google review
Alton Towers is a very creative and expansive place to visit, a place which will make your day brighter and bring you to some unseen adventures. The rides are impressive as well as scary, though entertaining for everybody. The only reason I personally rated this place with 4 stars is because the queue times can often be very long at peak hours.
jamose — Google review
Alton towers is a really nice place for children at the moment. Lots of Christmas trees and rides. And the Shark Bait Reef by Sea Life is great for all the family. How ever I went for the castle and gardens. The castle is closed. And a little of the gardens are open. And most walkways are shut off. So you don't get to see the hole of the park. Pinball Wizard was the only ride available for adults. But the staff were great. Food is expensive there and very limited. I love a full English breakfast but there was none of that.
#Scorpio “#Scorpio” — Google review
Great day even though the weather wasn't a blessing hot day. Haven't been here in 10 years so coming back with children and some new rides was a refreshing change. For a weekend it wasn't bad and there was some queuing but again, not too bad. The app being used around the park was good and helpful with all the information available
Mitesh Parmar — Google review
I have been to every theme park in the UK multiple times and Alton Towers is by far the best one of all. All of the roller coasters are fantastic but for their own individual reasons. The park grounds are absolutely stunning, with the abandoned castle being the centerpiece. I cannot recommend this place highly enough and I cannot wait to go back with or without my kids.
Paul Kerr — Google review
Great day out, cheap deal on Merlin pass, otherwise very overpriced. Nice walks and attractions. Pays best off weekdays and out of holidays to avoid big queues. Visit of castle should be a must and lovely walks in gardens. Good food options.
Ebs Mo — Google review
We had a great day here, some great rides, and some of the old rides still delivering great thrills.
However, surprising amount of rides breaking down through the day, food an absolute rip off, some of the rides need some TLC, Nemesis needs a lick of paint and a tidy up in general, some love for an older but still awesome ride!
Finally parking should be included with these ticket prices, and we were nearly blocked in because the car beside us was not in their slot properly, and one at the end of the row for exit completely blocked the row so we had to reverse all the way up the row !!
Mark Reynolds — Google review
What an awesome place! First time here and it’s just amazing. One day is just not enough. Definitely get the fast track for the more popular rides and download the app to strategize the day. I liked the rollercoaster restaurant. The food was just ok but I recommend the wraps. Without a doubt a great place to go for some family fun!
Marion NYC — Google review
We had a great day out yesterday. We bought a silver fast track pass so managed to get on 6 big rides quickly. It was quite expensive to do that but worth it as a one off.
The only thing that let the park down was the lack of signage to direct you to the correct areas for each ride. We actually had to ask a few members of staff where we were going.
Over all a good day had by all and enjoyed lots of rides as well as the stunning gardens.
Hazel Turner — Google review
Great rides, storytelling & friendly staff! Only downside is long queues (ride waiting times up to 90 mins at peak) and this is further impacted by lots of fast trackers (paying queue jumpers). Hotels and Stargazing Pods are comfortable and fun accommodation for families
Lynsey Nuttall-Heywood — Google review
Our first visit for over 13 years and loved it. We took our 10 year old and his 15 year old cousin. Both thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
If your child is close (just over) to 1.4m it’s worth going to guest services first thing to get them properly measured and get a wrist band so each ride doesn’t have to check them.
Food was ok, and the park was very clean and tidy.
They put a lot of effort into the atmosphere as well as the rides.
Anthony Aimiee — Google review
We stayed at Alton towers hotel for 2 nights as we couldn't go abroad this year due to recently taking a foster child who didn't have a passport and I'm so glad we did. It was magical, the staff were always lovely, the hotel was the highlight for us and the kids (included breakfast was awesome). The park itself was spectacular, the wait times on some of the rides were kind of crazy but we ended up buying the fast track passes for ones we really wanted to go on. Overall I can't wait to come back
james kelley — Google review
Really enjoyed our time here even with the high volume of guests. Really great roller coasters. Unfortunately I couldn't try them all as the majority of wait times didn't go below 60 minutes. We had lunch at the Rollercoaster Restaurant. We've been to one before at Europa Park. This was a let down. The food took ages (I think this was a fluke for us unfortunately). And the taste didn't justify the water. The gardens are peaceful and a great walk around. Tickets are significantly cheaper online. Highly recommend buying in advance.
Lauren Griffith — Google review
We drove up on the Friday and spent the afternoon at the water park. We stayed at a premier inn not far from alton towers, worked out a lot cheaper then staying on site as we was up there for 2 nights. Spent all day Saturday and Sunday in the park, kids loved it, rides for all ages ( except young babies). As in most theme parks the ques can be long (60+minutes) for the big rides. Be prepared for lots of walking as this place is massive, it didn't help that the cable carts that take you from one end of the park to the other were not working, been down for a while apparently. Would highly recommend doing more then one day to get the full experience. Great place, we will be going back
Ricky B — Google review
Kids had an amazing time there from opening to closing, I never saw them all day. I spent alot of time in the gardens and I enjoyed the piece and quiet away from the main park. I can highly recommend the doughnut from the kiosk by Alton Manor, not cheap, but well worth it.
Wear comfortable shoes as a lot of walking which I was fine with, but some may struggle.
My only grip and it is a small one is the price of parking.
Final comment the toilets were as clean at the end of the day as they were at the start.
Kevin Young — Google review
Visited here (23/05/24) and half a great time. Got on most of the rides. Shame wicker man wasn't working or Rita, but still enjoyed it.
Had a nice walk around the gardens for the first time in years. It didn't disappoint.
T Gartshore — Google review
I went here in Easter brake and fully prepped for all rides. But I wasn't prepared for the amount of times the rides broke down most of these where the roller coasters. With even the first ride breaking down just as I started to queue. But then the all new Nemesis Reborn had a 80 minute queue and I queued for about 70 minutes to brake down for 2 hours. The queues are long for the coasters so be prepared. But except the breaking down every 5 minutes I would strongly recommend going here it is very well themed, there is a lot of facilities and various different choices of merchandise. And most of all very good rides.
Noa Bennett — Google review
Some of the rides are great. It's a shame some aren't working at the moment and a few stopped working during the day but they got them open again fairly quickly. The place seriously needs some more consistent tlc it looks like they've started that with the recent redo of Nemesis and the surrounding area.
James Andrews — Google review
I'm thrilled to hear that you had a fantastic time at Alton Towers Resort with your family! From thrilling rides to captivating attractions, the resort offers something for everyone. The adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, mesmerizing shows, and beautiful surroundings create an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or prefer more leisurely activities, Alton Towers has it all. The friendly staff and well-maintained facilities add to the enjoyment, making it a top destination for families seeking adventure and fun, end of the day we all have a lovely day my children went to all rides and after we took a watersplash hotel and 2 day ticket.
Omar Mohammed — Google review
We had a great day out. Queues were pretty long even though it was early in the season. Lots of rides only had reduced carriages that didn't help. First time riding wickerman, which was much faster than expected and a great experience in the ride.
Neil Griffiths — Google review
Incredible day out, literally zero queues with either walking straight on to the rides or waiting a maximum 20 minutes.
Gold Merlin Pass and Adult General Admission, booked the night before 🙌🏽🎢
Parked in Carpark C, walked in through the none busy Resort entrance. Grateful for not having to queue for the monorail or walk the great distance to the main entrance. Happy security, helpful and informative. Thanks guys ☺️
We managed to ride all the big rides apart from Rita which was closed all day. Smiler closed whilst we were in the 20 minute queue, but we left and came back to it later.
Leaving was no bother, through the Resort exit near Galactica. Epic entire day out. Thanks Alton Towers and the team.
Darren Mooruth — Google review
Day 2 at the resort for us, and it was full of visitors, being bank holiday weekend was to be expected. Monorail not working on our arrival so walked to the entrance. Got through security swiftly with friendly staff. Ride times were an average of 90 mins but thankfully we had rode alot the day before. An absolutely stunning resort to walk around, so comfy footwear highly recommended. Shops nice and stocked, friendly attentive staff, and being gold merlin passholders got further discounts on merch, food and drinks. Various parts of the resort had actors making the experience even more thrilling! We will be back! The monorail was working thankfully for the end of our day! Oh and I have a fav coaster now, Thirteen 😍!!
Clare — Google review
Nice park with a lot of really good rides.
I went during a very busy times so 60 min queues were expected.
The rides seem very unreliable tho .
We went to 4 attractions where we had to wait 15 min longer because of malfunctions and the rides were always open from 11.
Food was expensive but I brought my own.
The rides were fantastic as always and worth the wait.
The gardens were also a really nice breather from the busy theme park.
I would go back someday and I hope the rides could be more reliable.
ochyt — Google review
I went to Alton Towers on Saturday, it's definitely the busiest day of them all, but other than that I had an amazing day. The thing that ruined it was the queues,I waited 1 hr and 45 mins to get on the ride 'The Smiler' don't recommend to go on the weekends. All the other rides gave me lots of adrenaline, I loved them very much.
Sarah Maties — Google review
It was opening day so it was very busy with Nemesis reopening. They have done such a great job with it, it looks to be a turning point for that park. If they keep this up, Towers will once again become the UK's best place to visit.
Callan Barclay — Google review
It's getting there, things are looking up for the resort. It's tidier, cleaner, and more welcoming than it's been in years. Ride wise it has a great mix, Nemesis Reborn and Wickerman are true highlights.
But there is something that really lets the place down - food. It's awful, everywhere. And not normal theme park/cinema/stadium bad, a new type of bad I can't explain. The prices are absurd, fine, it's a captive audience. But at least provide something edible.
It totally brings the entire guest experience down, and is making me think twice about staying over next time. I can't bring my own food for the entire stay, but I can't get figuratively smacked in both the face AND stomach by overpriced, terrible quality meals for two or more days again.
Sort it out, it's your biggest flaw in a park that is on it's way to being the best day out/short break experience in the UK.
Also, the gardens look so unloved it's upsetting. They've been a part of mine and my families visits for over 50 years, but within the last 5 years they've fallen apart. Look after them, they're unique and special and make your park stand out.
Ryan Brain — Google review
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4.0
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Farley Ln, Alton, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 4DB, United Kingdom