Witley Court and Gardens

Witley Court and Gardens Witley Court and Gardens Witley Court and Gardens Witley Court and Gardens
 
 

There is restricted access to the main house due to essential maintenance work taking place. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

The vast remains of this palatial 19th century mansion, surrounded by magnificent landscaped gardens & containing huge stone fountains, provide a great day out in Worcestershire. The largest fountain, representing Perseus and Andromeda and now restored - was described in its day as making the 'noise of an express train' when fired.

Before 1846, when William Humble Ward (later first Earl of Dudley) inherited Witley Court, the land surrounding the house was laid out in the 18th century English landscape style. William Andrews Nesfield was called in to transform the estate, creating the South Parterre with its great fountain, elegantly designed planting and clipped evergreens and shrubs.

Following the disastrous fire in 1937 the Witley Estate fell into long decline. English Heritage has restored the south garden and in addition, Wolfson Foundation funding has assisted with major restoration works in the East Parterre garden. This funding has also enabled us to plan development of the formal gardens based on the original Nesfield designs. The Woodland Walks in the North Park pass many different species of tree and shrub from all over the world.

Attached to Witley Court is Great Witley Church, with its amazing Italianate Baroque interior (not managed by English Heritage). The church has a tearoom, and Witley Court has a superb gift shop.

The restored Perseus and Andromeda fountain, with its original high cascades operating, will be firing between April and October on weekdays at 11am, 12pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm and at weekends on the hour every hour from 11am to 4pm.

Opening Saturday 4 May

One of the country's top play area designers, William Hardie, has been hard at work at Witley Court, and this summer visitors of all ages will be able to explore the new Wilderness Play Area which includes a treehouse, adventure trail and more.

Already home to a wide range of wild flowers and minibeasts, Witley Court's new play area is designed to provide adventure play themed around the wilderness garden in which it sits. With a treehouse inspired by a seed pod, outdoor musical instruments and even a grass-covered amphitheatre - perfect for family picnics, the new play area located near to the Visitor Centre is set to be a huge hit with visitors of all ages.

Don't Miss

  • Coming soon - The Wilderness Play Area for children of all ages to explore
  • The stunning Perseus and Andromeda fountain
  • Taking the audio tour that brings the court to life
  • Visiting the superb parish church nearby
  • The beautifully restored East Parterre garden

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Events AtWitley Court and Gardens

  • Springtime Family Fun Trail

    Sat 25 May - Sun 2 Jun 2013 (bank holiday)

    Spring into action with our family trail this Half Term! Track down all the clues hidden around the grounds, solve the riddle and claim your chocolate prize!

  • Victorian Garden Party

    Sat 22 & Sun 23 Jun 2013

    Come and celebrate this mid-summers weekend with a garden party fit for a queen! Enjoy music and dancing, games and activities into the evening, in the spectacular gardens of Witley Court.

  • Summer Fun Trail

    Thu 25 Jul - Sun 1 Sep 2013 (bank holiday)

    Get out and about this holiday with our summer fun trail. Explore the Court grounds and find the hidden clues. Solve the challenge and a special reward awaits!

Prices and opening times

directions

Worcester Road, Great Witley, Worcestershire - WR6 6JT. (Directions)

Membership

For just £48 a year, English Heritage members get free entry to our properties and exclusive discounts.

HOLIDAY COTTAGE

You can enjoy an exclusive break in the grounds of this beautiful property.

Find out more