Bowood House & Gardens

Bowood House & Gardens near Calne is the perfect family day out in Wiltshire, with something for everyone. A highlight for kids aged 12 years and under will be the large adrenaline-fuelled outdoor adventure playground with its life-size Pirate Ship and aerial walkways, a huge scramble net, several thrilling slides and perhaps the most famous and popular of all, the space dive with an exhilarating 19-foot vertical drop!

For the more cautious there are see-saws, swing boats, a Wendy House, swings and a sand pit. Under 7s will have a great time trying out the swinging log steps, stepping stones, balancing beams and log bridges in the ‘Partridge Play Pen’.

The whole family can relax in 100 acres of beautiful parkland designed by ‘Capability’ Brown. There is a cascade, Doric temple, Hermit’s Cave, stunning lake and arboretum to discover. Stroll through the award-winning gardens, exploring the formal terraces and gardens at the front of the house. If you are visiting between April and June, don’t miss the amazing display of colour from azaleas and rhododendrons in the Woodland Gardens.

Allow time to discover fascinating Bowood House, housing a wealth of unique art and an antique collection. Visit the chapel where Joseph Priestley discovered oxygen in the late 18^th century and find out about the history of the Lansdowne family.

Refreshments are available in The Stables Pantry, The Treehouse Café and at the Ice-cream Kiosk within the Adventure Playground. Bowood House & Gardens is a great place to hold birthday parties for children aged up to 12 years.

Opening dates/times

In 2024, Bowood is open daily from 29th March to 3rd November, 10.30am-5.30pm (last admissions at 4.30pm).

Please see Bowood House & Gardens’ website to find out more and book your tickets.