Waddesdon Manor

Waddesdon Manor was built at the end of the last century for Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild to entertain his guests and display his vast collection of art treasures. It has won many awards including Museum of the Year, Best National Trust Property 1997 and the Silver Award for England for Excellence Visitor Attraction of the Year 1998. This French Renaissance-style chƒteau houses one of the finest collection of French 18th century decorative arts in the world: Savonnerie carpets, SŠvres porcelain, Beauvais tapestries and furniture by the best French cabinet makers, as well as important portraits by Gainsborough and Reynolds and works by Dutch and Flemish Masters of the 17th century. Other displays include collections of gold boxes, buttons and drawings, plus the Choiseul SŠvres dessert service in the Dining Room. The refurbished Bachelors' Wing is also now open. Waddesdon has one of the finest Victorian gardens in Britain, famous for its landscape of specimen trees and parterre. The Rococo-style aviary houses a splendid collection of exotic birds and thousands of bottles of vintage Rothschild wines are found in the wine cellars. There are gift and wine shops and a licensed restaurant. Many events are organised throughout the year including Collection study days, floodlit openings, wine tastings, and garden workshops. Opening Times: Grounds (including garden, aviary, restaurant and shops) 3 Mar - 24 Dec Wed - Sun & BH Mons 10am - 5pm. House (including wine cellars) 1 Apr - 31 Oct Thur - Sun, also BH Mons & Weds in Jul & Aug 11am - 4pm. Recommended last admission 2.30pm. Bachelors' Wing open 1 Apr - 31 Oct: Wed, Thur & Fri in Jul & Aug, 11am - 4pm (access cannot be guaranteed)