About

Discover a day of adventure, nature and heritage at Bowood House & Gardens, set in the Wiltshire countryside and 35-40 minutes from Bath. 

Legendary Adventure Playground

Children aged 12 years and under can set sail on the iconic pirate ship and conquer the exhilarating treetop aerial walkways, giant slides and jumping pillows. Young explorers aged 7 years and under can navigate the tractor trail, build woodland dens, construct sand castles and discover water play. During rainy days, step inside for interactive play with building tools, soft play farm animals and a play kitchen.

Breathtaking Parkland

Explore idyllic parkland designed by ‘Capability’ Brown with sweeping views and hidden gems including a Cascade, Hermit’s Cave and Doric Temple.

Rare Arboretum

Wander amongst rare, record-breaking trees and spot some of Bowood’s abundant wildlife from deer to woodland birds.

Vibrant Gardens

Stroll through the Italianate Terrace Garden with its formal design and delicate water features. Enter the Walled Garden to find vibrant borders, greenhouses and wild flower meadows.

Historic House

Step inside Bowood House, the cherished home of the Lansdowne family since 1754. Admire Georgian architecture, fine art and historical treasures including the laboratory where Dr. Joseph Priestley discovered oxygen gas.

FAQs

How far is Bowood House & Gardens from Bath?
Bowood is around 18 miles from Bath, roughly a 35–40 minute drive.

What are the opening dates and times for Bowood House & Gardens in 2026?
House & Gardens opens from Friday 27th March to Sunday 1st November 2026, with opening hours of 10:30–17:30 and last admissions at 16:30. 

What is included in a Day Ticket to Bowood House & Gardens?
Day tickets include access to Bowood House, Terrace Gardens, Walled Garden, Arboretum, Adventure Playground, The Den & Activity Barn, and Parkland, including the lake, Cascade, Hermit's Cave and Doric Temple. 

What age is the Adventure Playground suitable for?
Children aged 12 years and under can enjoy the pirate ship, aerial rope walks, giant slides and jumping pillows, with a dedicated area for younger visitors. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult in the grounds at all times.

Is Bowood accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes. Bowood offers discounted day tickets for visitors with disabilities and their registered carers, at 50% off standard ticket prices, and runs a dedicated SEND hour on the first Saturday of each month, when the Adventure Playground, The Den, and Treehouse Café open early exclusively for visitors with additional needs or hidden disabilities and their family or carers. Wheelchairs are also available on-site. 

Are dogs allowed at Bowood House & Gardens?
Only working assistance dogs are permitted at the House & Gardens. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome in the Woodland Garden during its separate spring season. 

Is there parking at Bowood?
Free parking is available at the main visitor entrance, reached by following the brown tourist signs. 

Can I visit the Woodland Garden as part of my ticket?
No, the Woodland Garden is a separate attraction with its own opening period and ticket category, open mid-April to early June for the flowering season, so it isn't included in a standard House & Gardens day ticket.