Appuldurcombe House
A grand baroque mansion, now a hauntingly beautiful ruin set in 'Capability' Brown parkland. Free entry.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for picnics & photos
Appuldurcombe House
Best Time
Perfect for picnics & photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand baroque mansion, now a hauntingly beautiful ruin set in 'Capability' Brown parkland. Free entry.
"A beautiful shell of a house with stunning grounds, perfect for a picnic and photos."
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the grand grounds. It's a highlight for many visitors!
📸 Photographers' Dream
The ruins offer incredible photo opportunities, especially with natural light.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Exterior
Main facade
Marvel at the impressive baroque architecture of the remaining shell, a testament to its former glory.
Capability Brown Grounds
Surrounding parkland
Wander through the beautifully landscaped parkland, designed by the renowned Capability Brown.
Echoes of History
Interior ruins
Explore the atmospheric ruins, imagining life within these walls before WWII damage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Ruin
+1Free Entry & Limited Facilities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the grand grounds. It's a highlight for many visitors!
📸 Photographers' Dream
The ruins offer incredible photo opportunities, especially with natural light.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't just see the house; spend time walking the extensive, beautifully designed parkland.
👻 Ghostly Tales
Known for paranormal activity, it's a popular spot for ghost stories and spooky vibes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the grand grounds. It's a highlight for many visitors!
📸 Photographers' Dream
The ruins offer incredible photo opportunities, especially with natural light.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't just see the house; spend time walking the extensive, beautifully designed parkland.
👻 Ghostly Tales
Known for paranormal activity, it's a popular spot for ghost stories and spooky vibes.
🚗 Narrow Lane Access
Access is via a narrow lane with passing places. Drive carefully.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Appuldurcombe House for its stunning architectural shell, atmospheric ruins, and beautiful Capability Brown grounds, all offered for free. It's a popular spot for picnics and photography, though the lack of facilities like restrooms is a noted drawback. The house's historical significance and its 'haunted' reputation add to its unique appeal. +1
"I've been on the Isle of Wight numerous times and have missed this place. If its a beautiful day and you fancy a picnic in front of a grand mansion (albeit a hollow one), go here. If you like walking around abandoned buildings, this is perfect and it's free."
Dave Manners
"We have enjoyed exploring the Appuldurcombe House and the rolling grounds very much. We have used this graceful shell, damaged by bombs during the Second World War for a photo shoot, its beautiful English Baroque architecture providing a lovely backdrop. The entrance is free, parking plentiful, but there are no restrooms. Dogs must be on leash."
FLnurseER1
"This derelict site is managed by English Heritage.
Originally, it was a palatial structure, set in a glorious rolling landscape, created by Lancelot "Capability" Brown. The grounds are still impressive and well worth the visit. You can spend hours just walking the grounds.
Sadly, the building was severely damaged by bombing during the Second World War. The owners could not afford repairs, and after the war, some work was undertaken to stabilise the structure and make it safe.
You can walk around the site and enter the building; but sometimes it is used for various events, and access may be limited; watch out for signs advising you of access limits for safety reasons.
The property has a slightly ethereal and mournful air; what was once such an impressive baroque structure is now just an empty shell, a ghost that hints of days gone by.
Access to the site is via a narrow lane, with a few passing places. There is a large stone dressed car park, and all the footpaths are also stone chippings. The site has no toilet facilities, cafe or shop.
Despite this, I would still suggest that it is worth the visit, even if only for an hour."
Anthony Sutcliffe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Appuldurcombe House is located in the South Wight. Access is via a narrow lane with passing places, so drive with care. Parking is available on-site.
While specific bus routes can vary, it's advisable to check local Isle of Wight bus timetables. Many visitors opt for car travel due to the rural location.
From Newport, you'll typically head south towards Godshill and then follow signs for Appuldurcombe House. The journey offers scenic views of the Isle of Wight countryside.
Yes, cycling is a great way to explore the Isle of Wight. There are numerous cycle paths and quiet lanes that can lead you to Appuldurcombe House.
Yes, there is a large stone-dressed car park available for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Appuldurcombe House is free to enter for all visitors.
The house is typically open from 10 am to 4 pm, Sunday to Friday, from April to October. It's always best to check the official English Heritage website for the most up-to-date hours.
As entry is free, advance booking is not usually required. However, for special events, it's advisable to check the English Heritage website.
The house is generally open from April to October. Outside of these months, access may be limited or unavailable.
Access may sometimes be limited for safety reasons if the site is being used for events. Look out for advisory signs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the grand exterior ruins, wander through the Capability Brown grounds, enjoy a picnic, and learn about its history from information boards. +1
Yes, children often enjoy exploring the ruins and the open grounds. It's a great place for them to use their imagination.
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times.
No, there are no toilet facilities, cafe, or shop on-site. Visitors should come prepared.
You can spend an hour or a few hours, depending on whether you're just viewing the house or exploring the grounds extensively.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the house, especially with the grounds in the foreground, and the light filtering through the empty windows of the ruins are particularly photogenic.
Yes, its beautiful architecture and atmospheric ruins make it a popular backdrop for photoshoots, including weddings.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide beautiful light, but the ruins are also striking under midday sun.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. For commercial shoots, it's advisable to check with English Heritage.
It's ideal for architectural, landscape, and atmospheric photography, capturing its historical grandeur and ruinous beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great opportunity to spark their imagination and introduce them to history in a tangible way. Remember to bring snacks and drinks as there are no facilities on-site. Dogs are welcome on a leash, making it a good option for families with furry friends too.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Whether you're into architectural photography, landscape shots, or capturing atmospheric ruins, this site provides a unique subject. Consider visiting during golden hour for particularly dramatic lighting.
💍 Couples & Event Planners
+1Event planners and couples seeking a venue with character and a touch of gothic charm will find Appuldurcombe House to be an exceptional choice. The ability to create a personalized event within such a historic and atmospheric location is a significant draw.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Ruin of Appuldurcombe House
Tragically, the house suffered significant damage during a WWII bomb raid in 1943. The owners, unable to afford the extensive repairs needed, left the building to fall into disrepair. English Heritage has since undertaken work to stabilize the structure, preserving its haunting beauty as a ruin.
Today, visitors can explore the impressive shell of the house, imagining its former splendor. The atmospheric ruins, combined with the historical grounds, offer a unique glimpse into the past and a poignant reminder of the impact of war.
+1Appuldurcombe House as a Wedding Venue
+1Various wedding planners and caterers have highlighted the venue's potential, with events ranging from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations. The ability to personalize the space, combined with the stunning backdrop, allows for memorable and visually striking weddings.
+2If you're dreaming of a wedding that steps away from the conventional and embraces historical character, Appuldurcombe House offers an unforgettable experience. Its unique ambiance ensures a day that is both elegant and deeply personal.
The Haunted Reputation of Appuldurcombe House
+1Visitors and locals alike share tales of unexplained phenomena, adding an intriguing layer to the historical site. This reputation draws those interested in the supernatural, making it a popular spot for ghost tours and investigations.
+1Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, the house's eerie ambiance, coupled with its history of damage and abandonment, certainly fuels the imagination and contributes to its mystique.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit