Stourhead House And Gardens - National Trust

Stourhead House and Gardens

National Trust

Palladian mansion and world-famous landscape garden.

The after-dark illuminated trail through the garden at Stourhead returns for its fourth year on selected dates between 25 November - 1 January. Book now to discover this world-famous landscape in a new light this festive season.

Now firmly positioned as part of the UK's winter calendar, over a million twinkling lights and seasonal sounds fill the air with festive fun at Stourhead. Look forward to some time together with friends and family as you discover sparkling tunnels of light and dancing lakeside reflections, then walk under giant baubles and beneath glistening trees drenched in jewel-like colour. For a moment of reflection pause at mesmerising flickering flames in the fire garden, gaze at the larger-than-life illuminations and, to make a moment to remember, don't forget to glimpse Father Christmas along the way.

Our crew of independent street food vendors bring a delicious twist to tempting treats on offer. Complete your walk under the stars with a perfectly festive *spiced winter warmer, *hot chocolate or *toasted marshmallows shared with someone special (*separate charges apply).

When Stourhead first opened in the 1740s, a magazine described it as 'a living work of art'. The world-famous landscape garden has at its centrepiece a magnificent lake reflecting classical temples, mystical grottoes, and rare and exotic trees, and offers a day of fresh air and discovery. Uncover the fascinating history of Stourhead house with an Italian 'Grand Tour' adventure and enjoy the unique Regency library, Chippendale furniture and inspirational paintings. The Palladian mansion is set amid 'picnic perfect' lawns and extensive parkland. Explore the 1,072 hectare (2,650 acre) Stourhead estate and King Alfred's Tower, where chalk downs, ancient woods and farmland are managed for wildlife.

Henry Hoare I bought Old Stourton House in 1717 and swiftly demolished it. He then built a Palladian villa on adjacent land and named it Stourhead. After his father's death in 1725, Henry Hoare II completed the house and filled it with treasures, which you can still discover today. Today, the house tells the story of Harry Hoare and his parents. The rooms bring to life what it was like in this family home throughout Harry's childhood until Stourhead was given to the National Trust in 1946. It tells the story of love, loss and devotion as a family and to Stourhead itself.

Depart Approx. 19.30.

Due to the natural landscape, short sections of the trail include steep descents and mixed terrain and may not be appropriate for domestic scooters and wheelchairs. There will be stewards throughout the trail to assist patrons, specifically through these sections.