Bowood
It’s been home to the Lansdowne family since the 1st Earl of Shelburne purchased it in 1754 and it has a rich and fascinating history. Visitors can see the family library and chapel, the room where Joseph Priestley discovered Oxygen in 1774, the sculpture gallery, orangery and a range of exhibition rooms.
Capability Brown created the landscape and mile-long lake over a five year period 5 from 1763. It is one of the best (and most unspoilt) examples of his famous work. There are 100 acres of pleasure grounds, including an arboretum, cascade, doric temple and Hermits Cave.
Awarded the HHA/Christies Gardens of the Year in 2014, the formal terraces and gardens at the front of the House provide plenty of colour throughout the season and provide a beautiful place to enjoy the view of the landscape beyond. The 4 acre Private Walled Garden at the rear of the House can be enjoyed by pre-booking a guided tour. A separate Woodland Garden opens annually between April and June showcasing stunning Rhododendrons and Azaleas. The Jubilee Garden is a four-acre section of garden within the Woodland Gardens, which was originally laid out around 1850 by the 3rd Marquis of Lansdowne.
The gardens are home to one of the best adventure playgrounds in the South of England with rope walks, pirate galleon, slides and the famous ‘Space Dive’.
Another favourite with children is Tractor Ted’s Little Farm – a petting zoo with friendly farm animals, outdoor tractor track and mini diggers.
Events at Bowood include Classic Ibiza and RunFestRun
Bowood celebrates 300th birthday of Capability Brown
Antiques Roadshow at Bowood
Photos of Antiques Roadshow at Bowood
Halloween treats at Bowood
Wiltshire Police Dog Display at Bowood House and Gardens
Toby Buckland’s Garden Festival at Bowood, 5th and 6th June 2015
Photos of Toby Buckland’s Garden Festival
Bowood Christmas Extravaganza 2014
Celebratory pear trees presented to Bowood
Michael Morpurgo at Bowood charity evening
Bowood wins 2014 Garden of the Year
Photos of Bowood rhododendron walk
