National Trust

Explore world famous gardens at Stourhead with hills, water and classical architecture overlaid by a fabulous collection of trees and shrubs, Stourhead was described as ‘a living work of art’ when first opened in the 1740s. Meandering paths offer vistas through trees to classical temples and surprises at every turn. On a plateau of high ground Stourhead House was built and became home to generations of the Hoare family. Their house in the country was seen as an escape from London and truly became their family home. There is 2,500 acres of countryside to explore on the Stourhead estate including an Iron Age hill fort, acres of ancient woodland and King Alfred's Tower, a 160ft high folly.