Badminton House

Nestled in the picturesque Gloucestershire countryside, Badminton House is a grand stately home that invites visitors to explore its rich history.

The North Hall is a marvel of architectural grandeur. The hall is adorned with Georgian plaster work by William Kent and John Wootton's paintings were commissioned for the room, where they still hang. The original suite of seat furniture, also designed in Kent's style, remains in place.

The Oak Room includes an intricately carved desk by William Vile, a renowned Georgian cabinet maker, that exemplifies the craftsmanship of the period.

Badminton House also features a remarkable collection of family portraits by prominent artists of their time. Highlights include paintings of the 5th Duke: two from his childhood and a full-length portrait by Sir Joshua Reynolds from his Oxford days. The 7th Duke is depicted in portraits by Winterhalter, a favorite artist of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, while a life-size equestrian portrait of the 8th Duke and Duchess by Sir Francis Grant adds to the collection.

The house also boasts a pair of paintings by Canaletto, one showing Badminton House from the park and the other offering a view from the house itself.

Other notable items, including various pieces of furniture, silver, and busts, further enrich the tour. Knowledgeable guides bring the experience to life with fascinating anecdotes and historical insights, making the rich tapestry of Badminton House even more vivid.

Timings & Tours

Friday 19 September:

1000-1200 & 1100-1300

Saturday 20 September:

1000-1200 & 1100-1300

Sunday 21 September:

1000-1200 & 1100-1300

Location & directions

Badminton House, Badminton, Gloucestershire, GL9 1DB

Directions:

Use postcode GL9 1DB. From the South Exit the M4 at Junction 18 and head north on the A46 toward Stroud. After two miles, turn right at the Cross Hands Hotel onto the B4040 (signposted Malmesbury/Badminton). After 1.5 miles, turn left to Badminton on a sharp right bend by a clump of trees. In Badminton Village, turn left at the “T” junction, then right into Badminton High Street before a set of gates. Proceed up the High Street, through the gates, under the Clock Tower, and park at the West Front of Badminton House. From the North (A46) At Dunkirk crossroads, turn left toward Great Badminton, about 250 yards south of the A433/A46 junction. Drive through Little Badminton, under a red brick bridge, and straight up the High Street. Enter through the gates and follow the directions above.

Contact on day:

Charlie Williams

Telephone number:

+447780337993

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

Tours are subject to availability, with a maximum of 15 people per 2-hour session. If you are unable to attend, please inform us as soon as possible so we can offer the spot to someone else. Kindly bring proof of your booking along with a valid ID. Arrive on time, as tours operate within a fixed schedule. Please note that certain areas of the property are restricted—stay with your guide and follow the designated route.

Booking contact name:

Katie Harris

Booking telephone number:

+441454218203

Booking email:

[email protected]

Booking website:

https://www.badmintonestate.com/etn/heritage-open-days/

Accessibility details

Wheelchairs users or those with mobility issues can park near the blue church gates and be escorted to the North Hall through the gardens by a member of our staff.

Additional information

There will be refreshments (tea and cake) available to purchase in the Old Kitchen.

Max no of people per tour:

15

Est. tour duration:

2 hour(s)

Check out our online channels

Back to results