This summer, Wiltshire’s historic Bowood Estate invites visitors to immerse themselves in a rich blend of natural beauty, heritage, and cultural experiences as it celebrates 50 years since its House and Gardens opened to the public.
Lord Kerry, the estate’s 11th generation custodian, emphasizes the significance of this milestone: “Marking half a century since we opened our House and Gardens, we aim to deepen our guests’ connection with nature, inspire curiosity about our history, and create lasting memories in this cherished setting.”
Highlights include the Earth Photo exhibition, presented by the Royal Geographical Society and Forestry England, on display in Bowood’s Arboretum from July 23 to September 1. This compelling visual showcase presents stories of global environmental change and human resilience, spotlighting issues from Greenland’s melting ice to Morocco’s shrinking oases. Admission is included with a standard day ticket.
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Young explorers can engage in nature-themed events organized with Wiltshire Wildlife Trust from August 2 to 10. Activities such as scavenger hunts, bark rubbing, and butterfly counts align with the national Big Butterfly Count, encouraging hands-on learning and conservation awareness.
Adventure seekers aged six to ten can participate in Mud & Guts’ outdoor bushcraft sessions, held every Thursday from July 31 to August 28. Children will learn skills like fire lighting, rope swinging, and den building. These sessions cost £21.50 each and do not require a day ticket.
For those craving treetop excitement, The Great Big Tree Climbing Company offers supervised climbs on ancient trees on select dates: July 29, 30, August 29, and 30. Tickets are priced at £30 per climber and can be booked separately from estate admission.
Creative families can enjoy daily arts and crafts workshops at The Bothy, running from July 26 through August 31, included with estate entry.
The estate’s elegant Georgian lawns will also host outdoor theatre productions. On August 2, This is My Theatre stages Jane Austen’s Emma, while on August 15, The Duke’s Theatre Company presents a bold reinterpretation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Tickets start at £15 and should be booked in advance.
Food and drink lovers can look forward to a Caribbean-style BBQ on July 10 on the Shelburne Restaurant terrace, featuring rum punch and live music for £20 per ticket.
Gin aficionados are invited to a special Honey & Rose Infused Gin afternoon tea on July 6, hosted with Hawkridge Distillers. Tickets cost £44, including tastings and a gin-inspired menu, for guests aged 18 and over.
Finally, traditional Jazz Afternoon Teas will be held at the Bowood Hotel on June 22 and August 3, featuring vintage vocalist Kitty Mazinsky. Tickets are £42.
With this vibrant summer programme, Bowood Estate offers a perfect blend of relaxation, enrichment, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for families, romantics, and explorers alike.