Athelhampton House and Gardens

Athelhampton House and Gardens is a hidden gem in the middle of the Dorset countryside. Dating back over five hundred years, it’s billed as one of England’s finest Tudor Manors so a must-see if you’re in the area. Athelhampton House is beautiful and steeped in history. It has connections to Thomas Hardy and has been renovated and extended since it was first built. It’s also flooded numerous times but much of the house is original and wonderful to see.

Things to do at Athelhampton House and Gardens

The Great Hall was the first part of Athelhampton to be built back in 1485 and is mostly unchanged with a mainly original hammer-beam roof, carved stonework and stained glass. The rest of Athelhampton was added later. The children loved exploring the rooms and we all appreciated how homely the house is despite being a tourist attraction. It had a traditional toilet you can use on the first floor and the most beautiful copper bath I have ever seen.

The house is apparently haunted by a few different ghosts but we didn’t see any on our visit and just enjoyed exploring the rooms and finding out more about the house from the friendly staff. The grounds at Athelhampton are vast with many different gardens from formal gardens to a kitchen garden and even park land. There are so many different areas for children to run around and have an adventure making it a really lovely family day out.

We really enjoyed our time at Athelhampton and although we only spent a couple of hours there you could have a picnic or have a meal in one of the restaurants and make a full day of it, exploring all of the outside space that Athelhampton has to offer.

Further Information

Is there food and drink available?

The Coach House Restaurant – serving morning coffee, delicious lunches and cream tea. The Long Hall Restaurant – Sunday a la carte restaurant with a carvery option. Booking advised. The Drawing Room – elegant art-deco tea room serving afternoon tea and champagne. Booking essential.

What are the main things to do?

One of England’s finest Tudor manor houses with beautiful grounds including formal gardens, kitchen garden and parkland. There are toilets and a choice of places to eat.

What are the ticket prices?

Members of Historic Houses (HH) can visit for free.
A garden-only adult ticket is £9 or £2.50 for a child. House and garden tickets are £14 for an adult and £4.50 for a child. Other ticket options are available.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.