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Longleat House is widely regarded as one of the best examples of high Elizabethan architecture in Britain and one of the most beautiful stately homes open to the public.
Substantially completed by 1580 and now home to the 7th Marquess of Bath, Longleat House is set within 900 acres of stunning ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped parkland… a bit different from the run-down priory, 60 acres of land, a rabbit warren and an orchard which was purchased by John Thynne in 1540 for £53!
Adults and kids alike love this stunning stately home.
Longleat House is packed to the rafters with priceless antiques. Look up at the ceilings that Longleat is so famous for - with their ornate paintings and abundance of gilt, made by the firm of John Dibblee Crace in the 1870s and 1880s.
You’ll see some of the libraries. Did you know Longleat has one of the largest private book collections in Europe with over 40,000 books catalogued within 7 libraries?
Look out for the grisly blood-stained under vest worn by King Charles I at his execution in 1649 that sits in the Great Hall of Longleat House.
During the main season, you can take a free flow tour through Longleat House with guides positioned in the main rooms. This is your chance to challenge our guides on their historical knowledge… Why do we have a boiled egg on the table in the Breakfast Room and do you know which star sign Henry VIII was?
Hear ghostly tales of the infamous Grey Lady or maybe meet Elizabeth I or one of our other historical characters… with over 450 years of history, there is intrigue and scandal aplenty in this splendid Elizabethan home.
The Murals, are unique to Longleat House as they have been created by Lord Bath himself.
Incorporating a mixture of oil paints and sawdust, these private works of art give a fascinating insight into Lord Bath’s personality and beliefs.
You can book tours at the front desk of Longleat House on the day of your visit - subject to availability and a small surcharge.
Private rooms displaying furniture, antiques and family treasures are open for private tours on the dates below. These rooms are not normally open to the public.
Thursday 22 March · Friday 20 July
Friday 27 April · Thursday 6 September
Thursday 10 May · Friday 28 September
Friday 31 May · Thursday 11 October
Thursday 21 June · Friday 19 October
| Costs: | £10 per person in addition to a standard Longleat entry ticket (15yrs+ only) - to be paid on arrival at the front desk of Longleat House. |
| Duration/Timings: | Tours will last approximately 1 hour and will take place at 12 noon promptly. |
| Terms & Conditions: |
Please note that this price does not include a tour of Longleat House or Murals. Tours limited to 12 persons per tour. |
| Booking: |
Pre-booking essential. Please telephone 01985 845420 to book (a minimum of 24 hours notice is required). |