Coughton Court
A historic 15th-century Tudor house with a rich Catholic heritage, surrounded by stunning gardens and grounds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wild blooms and soft light.
Coughton Court
Best Time
Wild blooms and soft light.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 15th-century Tudor house with a rich Catholic heritage, surrounded by stunning gardens and grounds.
"Hundreds of years of history beautifully preserved, with stunning gardens and walks."
🎯 Arrive Early for House Tours
Beat the crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience of the house by arriving early. :clock1:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the house and extensive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tudor Gate Tower
Entrance to the estate
A striking 15th-century gate tower, offering a grand introduction to the estate's historical significance.
The Spiral Staircase to the Roof
Inside the main house
Climb the historic spiral staircase for breathtaking panoramic views of the gardens and surrounding countryside.
The Walled Gardens
Estate gardens
Discover meticulously maintained walled gardens, bursting with seasonal blooms and offering tranquil beauty.
Lakeside Walk
Estate grounds
Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the lakeside, a must-do for its scenic beauty and serene atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Arrive Early for House Exploration
Explore Beyond the House
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for House Tours
Beat the crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience of the house by arriving early. :clock1:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the house and extensive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
🌳 Explore the Lakeside Walk
Don't miss the serene lakeside path for beautiful views and a peaceful escape. :evergreen_tree:
📸 Capture Garden Beauty
The gardens are particularly stunning in spring and autumn, perfect for photography. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for House Tours
Beat the crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience of the house by arriving early. :clock1:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the house and extensive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
🌳 Explore the Lakeside Walk
Don't miss the serene lakeside path for beautiful views and a peaceful escape. :evergreen_tree:
📸 Capture Garden Beauty
The gardens are particularly stunning in spring and autumn, perfect for photography.
🧺 Picnic Potential
Plenty of space on the grounds for a lovely picnic with family and friends. :sandwich:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Coughton Court for its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. The friendly and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience, with many highlighting the rewarding climb to the roof for panoramic views. The estate offers a wonderful day out with plenty to explore, from the house's historical narratives to the serene lakeside walks and vibrant walled gardens.
"Another fantastic National Trust house. Hundreds of years of history beautifully preserved. The staff are super friendly and knowledgeable. A climb of the spiral staircase rewards with wonderful views of the gardens. The gardens themselves are stunning with multiple areas to explore, the lakeside walk is a must. The usual excellent cafe and bookshop on site as well as the gift shop."
mark stewart
"This was just brilliant day out. Well worth visit. The staff were absolutely amazing so friendly and helpful. The house was beautiful and the walk to the roof was well worth it. The history of the house was amazing. But please arrive early for the visit to walk inside the house. You will not be disappointed. The grounds and the gardens are absolute credit to the ground staff. Beautifully maintained. Lovely place to take picnic loads of space. Plenty of parking as well. Great day out."
Stuart Dengate
"A wonderful place steeped in history. The house and grounds are both very much worth investigating. The spiral staircase climb up to the roof rewards you with incredible views across the area and makes the effort worthwhile. The grounds have some beautiful areas with the walled garden definitely worth a look. The Orangery is a beautiful building."
Ian Tapsell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Coughton Court is located in Alcester, Warwickshire. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. For public transport, you can take a train to nearby stations like Stratford-upon-Avon or Redditch and then a taxi or local bus service.
While not strictly within the Cotswolds, Coughton Court is located nearby and is often visited by those exploring the region, making it a convenient addition to a Cotswolds itinerary.
There is plenty of parking available at Coughton Court, which is a significant plus for visitors arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's generally recommended to check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date information on booking requirements and opening times, especially during peak seasons.
Opening hours can vary seasonally for both the house and gardens. It's best to consult the National Trust website for Coughton Court's specific opening times before your visit.
Yes, Coughton Court is a National Trust property, meaning members can usually enter for free.
The 'Gardeners' World' May value pack offered a 2-for-1 Gardens card, which could be used at Coughton Court and other participating gardens until April 2024. Check for current offers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic Tudor house, climb to the roof for views, wander through the beautiful walled gardens and lakeside paths, and learn about the Throckmorton family's fascinating history, including their links to the Gunpowder Plot. +1
The climb involves a spiral staircase, which can be challenging for some. However, visitors find the rewarding views make the effort worthwhile. +1
Typically, National Trust properties allow dogs in the gardens and grounds, but not usually inside the house. Always check the specific property's dog policy on the National Trust website.
Coughton Court has deep connections to significant historical events, including the Gunpowder Plot and the Throckmorton family's resilience as Catholics during the Reformation. +1
Coughton Court sometimes hosts events like 'Summer of Play' with lawn games, and has been featured on programs like 'Hidden Treasures of the National Trust'. Check their schedule for current offerings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Coughton Court has an excellent cafe on site, offering refreshments and a place to relax after exploring.
Absolutely! Coughton Court has plenty of space on its grounds, making it a great spot for a picnic.
📸 📸 Photography
The Tudor gate tower, the vibrant walled gardens (especially in spring and autumn), the lakeside, and the views from the roof are all fantastic photo opportunities. +1
Photography rules can vary. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in many areas, but it's always best to check for specific restrictions inside the house.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the house offers historical insights, the gardens and open spaces are where kids can truly burn off energy and enjoy the outdoors. Consider bringing a picnic to make the most of the family-friendly atmosphere. 🚶♀️ History Buffs
+1 Don't miss the chance to climb to the roof for a unique perspective and to absorb the historical context of the surrounding landscape. 🌿 Garden Enthusiasts
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Throckmorton Family and Their Faith
During the turbulent Reformation period, the family remained staunchly Catholic, a stance that deeply influenced their lives and the history of the estate. This commitment led to significant events and connections, including links to the infamous Gunpowder Plot. One of Coughton's unique treasures is the 'Tabula Elensis,' a testament to the family's enduring faith.
The house itself, a magnificent example of Tudor architecture, provides a tangible link to this enduring legacy. Exploring the rooms allows visitors to step back in time and appreciate the historical significance of the Throckmorton's steadfastness through centuries of change. Gardens and Grounds: A Natural Escape
Beyond the formal gardens, the lakeside walk provides a more serene experience, allowing visitors to connect with nature and enjoy peaceful moments.
Ghosts and Legends of Coughton Court
The most famous spectral resident is the 'Pink Lady,' said to haunt the tapestry room, her presence a whisper from the past. Other reported apparitions include a lady with long brown hair seen near St. Peter's Church and a lady in a yellow dress who roams the estate. These tales of the supernatural contribute to the atmospheric charm of Coughton Court, making it a place where history and legend intertwine. While the primary focus is on its historical significance and beautiful grounds, these ghostly whispers add an element of mystery and intrigue for those who enjoy a touch of the paranormal.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit