Vanbrugh Walking Tour at Stowe House
Stowe House, Stowe, Buckingham, Buckinghamshire, MK18 5EH
Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour will uncover Vanbrugh’s influence on the estate, highlighting key architectural features while also exploring Stowe’s distinctive approach to commissioning designers, both historic and modern. Over time, this vision has created a rich layering of work by some of the most celebrated architects of the period, making Stowe a living record of evolving taste, ambition, and craftsmanship.
In keeping with the Heritage Open Days theme of “Everyday Histories,” the tours will also shine a light on the often overlooked spaces that supported daily life at Stowe. Vanbrugh’s contribution was not limited to grand, theatrical statements. Visitors will gain insight into areas such workaday areas, where the rhythms of everyday work once sustained the household.
Many of these spaces continue to serve essential functions today. Although adapted over time, they remain integral to the ongoing life of the estate, offering a fascinating connection between past and present. This perspective reveals not only how Stowe was designed to impress, but also how it was, and still is, built to function.
This event was supported by leading family history website, Findmypast, who provided access to their records as part of their sponsorship of ‘Everyday Histories’, the festival theme. Discover your ancestors' stories at findmypast.co.uk
Timings
- Saturday 19 September:
- Tours: 11:00; 12:00; 13:00; 14:00; 15:00
Location & directions
Stowe House, Stowe, Buckingham, Buckinghamshire, MK18 5EH
- Directions:
- If you have pre-booked your ticket, you will be able to arrive and park directly at Stowe House using the postcode MK18 5EH. If you are planning to attend on the day, please note that places on tours are subject to availability. In this case, you will need to park at the National Trust New Inn Visitor Centre (postcode MK18 5DQ) and walk through the gardens to reach the House. Please be aware that normal National Trust garden admission charges apply. We recommend pre-booking to guarantee your place and enjoy the convenience of parking at Stowe House.
- Contact on day:
- Stowe House Info
- Telephone number:
- +441280818006
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking required
- Booking conditions:
- For full event Terms and Conditions, please visit: www.stowehouse.org/terms-and-conditions/. Please note that your free Heritage Open Day tour does not include entry to Stowe House. The House and Museum will be open as usual from 10.30am to 4.30pm, with admission available through the normal paid entry process. We look forward to welcoming you for a behind-the-scenes experience and hope you will also take the opportunity to explore the interior of this magnificent country house.
- Booking contact name:
- Stowe House
- Booking telephone number:
- +441280818006
- Booking email:
- [email protected]
- Booking website:
- https://www.stowehouse.org/event/heritage-open-day-2026/
- Alternative booking website:
- https://www.facebook.com/StoweHouse/
Accessibility details
This tour covers an extended distance (just under 1 mile), is predominantly outdoors, on even level surfaces. Wear comfy shoes and dress for the weather The tour will last approximately 45-60 minutes Please let us know of any accessibility needs to support your experience via: [email protected]
Additional information
We hope you'll take the opportunity to explore our Museum and State Rooms, and discover even more of Stowe House with a guided tour of the interior. Admission Prices: Adult: £9.50 National Trust Member: £7.50 Historic Houses Member: Free Child (6-16): £3.00 Under 5s: Free To guarantee your visit, please pre-book your House admission tickets and select your preferred tour time at www.stowehouse.org.
- Max number of people:
- 15
- Estimated duration:
- 0 hour(s) 45 minute(s)
