A family day out at Waddesdon Manor
Waddesdon Manor welcomes visitors to its grand Neo-Renaissance country home and grounds each day from 10am to 4/5pm.
This impressive French-style château was built in the 1870s and offers surrounding views of the Chilterns Hills, Oxfordshire and the Vale of Aylesbury.
What is there to do?
There’s so much to see and do, Waddesdon Manor is an entire day out in itself as the House and Grounds are so expansive.
Exploring the Grounds
You’ll start your day in the stunning Victorian Gardens. In spring, Waddesdon comes to life in a wash of colour. You’ll spot over 6000 tulips on the Parterre and plenty of daffodils left in Daffodil Valley.
The Aviary is charming. This ornate green and gold cast iron aviary features many exotic birds including the Rothschild mynah, a bird native to Bali. This bird was named after Walter, second Lord Rothschild (1868-1937), a famous zoologist.
All around you, there are things to discover. Whether it be the beautiful gardens, exquisite statues and sculptures, or the contrasting landscapes.
Things to see on the Grounds include:
- Parterre
- Aviary
- Pulham Rocks
- Rose Garden
- Water Garden
- Tay Bridge
- North Fountain
- Woodland Playground
- Stables
- Power House
- Coach House Gallery
If you fancy a more guided experience, check out the garden walks and maps.
Exploring the House
You could spend a few hours appreciating the grandeur of the House. Inside, you’ll discover a plethora of stately rooms, renowned paintings, exquisite furnishings, and fine porcelain.
The current Alice’s Wonderlands exhibition offers a fascinating insight into the life and legacy of Alice de Rothschild.
Things to see in the House include:
- The East Gallery
- The Breakfast Room
- The Conservatory and Ante Room
- The Dining Room
- The Red Drawing Room
- The Grey Drawing Room
- The West Gallery
- The Small Library
- The Baron’s Room and the Tower Drawing Room
- The West Hall
- The Morning Room
- The Treasury
- The State Dressing Room, State Bedroom, and Green Boudoir
- The Fountain Bedroom and Bathroom
- The Blue Dining Room
- The Armoury Corridor
- The Bachelor’s Wing
- The Smoking Room
Once you’re finished, you may browse the Manor Shop or dine in the Manor Restaurant.
Is Waddesdon Manor family-friendly?
Waddesdon is super family-friendly and is honestly the perfect family day out!
I’d probably suggest leaving your buggy or pushchair at home. Although there are buggy-friendly routes, there are lots of hills and access from the car park is difficult.
From the car, the route takes 15 minutes to walk and is partly covered in wood shavings and in parts is uphill. This makes it awkward to navigate.
So, if you take a buggy or pushchair, you’ll want to utilise the shuttle bus (separate fee) or pay for parking outside the House (£20 per car). Alternatively, do what we did, and bring a carrier.
Please also note that buggies and pushchairs cannot be taken into the House and you are advised to bring a carrier.
You’ll find baby-changing, breastfeeding, and toilet facilities available at the Manor and Stables.
Where can we eat and drink?
Once you’ve worked up an appetite exploring, there are plenty of dining options at Waddesdon.
You can enjoy afternoon tea in the Manor Restaurant, grab a bite to eat at the Stables, Woodland Playground, or Manor Terrace, and even pre-book a picnic!
Alternatively, if you fancy something a little different, why not bring your own yummy picnic to enjoy on the Grounds?
How much does it cost?
Waddesdon Manor offers free entry for National Trust members. If you are not a member, please see the entrance prices below:
Grounds only
- Adult – £13.20
- Child – £6.60
House and grounds
- Adult – £25.20
- Child – £12.60
Children under five are free.
Please note, that visitors to Waddesdon Manor are advised to book Grounds admission in advance and online booking is essential for timed entry to the House.
Stephanie xox
