West Wycombe Park
1 / 10

West Wycombe Park

4.4
·89 reviews·High Wycombe, United Kingdom

An enchanting 18th-century estate with a Palladian mansion, stunning gardens, and iconic filming locations like the 'Labyrinth' bridge.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

CrowdLow
Loading map...
West Wycombe Park

West Wycombe Park

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An enchanting 18th-century estate with a Palladian mansion, stunning gardens, and iconic filming locations like the 'Labyrinth' bridge.

4.4
(89 reviews)

"A gem offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, ideal for a serene day out."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check House Opening Times

House access is limited; book guided tours or check for Sunday free-flow. :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Explore the extensive grounds and hilly terrain with sturdy footwear. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Labyrinth Bridge

The Labyrinth Bridge

Near the lake

Recreate iconic scenes from the 1986 film 'Labyrinth' on this picturesque bridge. A must for movie fans!

TikTok+1
Palladian Mansion

Palladian Mansion

West Wycombe House

Step back in time at this exquisite 18th-century Palladian mansion, offering a glimpse into opulent history.

InstagramReddit
Landscaped Gardens & Lakes

Landscaped Gardens & Lakes

Throughout the estate

Wander through serene lakes, charming woodlands, and discover hidden temples and follies.

InstagramReddit
Hellfire Caves

Hellfire Caves

Short walk from the park

Explore these intriguing man-made caverns, once the haunt of the notorious Hellfire Club.

Instagram
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

West Wycombe Park's house has limited opening hours and often hosts private events like weddings. Check the National Trust website for guided tour times or free-flow Sunday access to avoid disappointment. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends for exploring the grounds. Reddit

Beyond the Park Gates

While the park itself is stunning, consider exploring the nearby Hellfire Caves for a dose of 18th-century intrigue. Instagram Also, note that there's no cafe on-site, but charming options are a short walk away on West Wycombe High Street. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low
When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Free-flow house access
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Labyrinth Experience at West Wycombe Park was so good! The opening scene of The Labyrinth was filmed at this park, you might recognise the bridge. I got to meet Hoggle too! 💚 #thelabyrinth #thelabyrinthmovie #thegoblinking #hoggle #hogglethelabyrinth #ludo #ludofriend #goblins #brianfroud #davidbowietiktok #bowie #bowietok #sirdidymus #westwycombe #labyrinthexp @ThamesCon
@botanicalchan
65K likes • 773.6K views

Check House Opening Times

House access is limited; book guided tours or check for Sunday free-flow. Reddit :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Explore the extensive grounds and hilly terrain with sturdy footwear. :athletic_shoe:

how are they selling it for so cheap?? 😮 #highwycombe #nightclub #property
@housinghorrors
6.1K likes • 213.4K views
A bird's eye view captured during our recent visit to West Wycombe Park, courtesy of @heritagexplore We got a fascinating insight into the history of the house and the lives of the people who have called it home over the centuries, as part of a behind the scenes tour. If it looks familiar, even if you've never visited, that's because the house and gardens, and nearby #HellfireCaves have been us...
buckingcam
28 likes • 1.8K views

Bring Your Camera

Capture the stunning architecture, landscapes, and movie filming locations. :camerawithflash:

Pack a Picnic

No cafe on-site, but lovely spots to enjoy your own food. :sandwich:

You’ll never believe this place is in Wycombe… 😍 Tucked away just minutes from town is the gorgeous West Wycombe Park. It feels like stepping into another world - sweeping views, calm waters and all. Whether you’re spotting temples, soaking in the peace or just wandering the grounds, it’s definitely one of our hidden gems in the area ✨ 📍 West Wycombe Park, National Trust @westwycombent 📆 Open ...
wycombepulse
70 likes • 3.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check House Opening Times

House access is limited; book guided tours or check for Sunday free-flow. Reddit :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Explore the extensive grounds and hilly terrain with sturdy footwear. :athletic_shoe:

Bring Your Camera

Capture the stunning architecture, landscapes, and movie filming locations. :camerawithflash:

Pack a Picnic

No cafe on-site, but lovely spots to enjoy your own food. :sandwich:

Dog-Friendly Walks

Dogs are welcome on leads in most areas of the park. :dog:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(89 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise West Wycombe Park for its stunning landscaped grounds, picturesque lakes, and the iconic 'Labyrinth' bridge. The Palladian mansion and historical insights are also highly appreciated. Some note limited house opening hours and the absence of an on-site cafe, recommending checking schedules and bringing snacks.

"Grand landscaped grounds with many temples, bridges and statues dotted around. House looks good but we could only see a few rooms due to a wedding taking place later on the day."

Ray Welsh

"We had a lovely afternoon there. Car park is very close. Weekdays the house can be visited as part of a guided tour but tickets are going fast. On Sundays, it can be visited freely. The walk around the lake is amazing and the woods hide little gems. There is a toilet in the car park and very likely to be one in the house too."

Emilie Moroni

"This is a National Trust site that many might miss but it is worth a visit! Almost hidden are the gates to enter off West Wycombe High Street. Short opening hours so please check before you set off. Also no cafe but there are two within a short walk (Walled Garden run by the Dashwood family and the Apple Orchard on the High Street. Enjoy a guided tour of the house (free flow on a Sunday) and peaceful walks around the garden and lake. Do explore the many temples built in the park, all very impressive."

Andy Irvin

What People Like

Beautiful landscaped grounds
Iconic Labyrinth bridge
Historical house tours

What People Dislike

Limited house opening hours
No on-site cafe

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

West Wycombe Park is accessible by car, with parking available on-site. It's also reachable by public transport, with bus services running to High Wycombe, followed by a short taxi or bus ride to the park. Instagram

Yes, there is a car park located very close to the entrance of West Wycombe Park. Reddit

Yes, West Wycombe Park is about an hour's drive from London, making it a popular day trip destination. Instagram

Many visitors enjoy walking around the lake and exploring the various temples and follies dotted throughout the grounds. Reddit

The park offers buggy-friendly paths, though some areas can be a bit bumpy, so a sturdy buggy is recommended. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

West Wycombe Park is a National Trust property. Entry fees apply for non-members, but members can enter for free. Check the National Trust website for current admission prices. Reddit

Opening hours vary, especially for the house. The park grounds are generally open for longer periods than the house. Always check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Reddit

On Sundays, West Wycombe House can often be visited freely. On weekdays, it's typically accessible via a guided tour, which may require booking in advance as tickets can sell out quickly. Reddit

National Trust members get free entry. Look out for family passes or special event tickets that might offer discounts. Reddit

While not always mandatory for the grounds, booking guided tours for the house in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekday visits, as they can sell out. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Key attractions include the Palladian mansion, the landscaped gardens with lakes and temples, the iconic 'Labyrinth' bridge, and the nearby Hellfire Caves. TikTokInstagramReddit

Absolutely! The park offers stunning architectural details, beautiful landscapes, and picturesque views, making it a photographer's paradise. Instagram+1

Yes, there are toilet facilities available in the car park and likely within the house itself. Reddit

Yes, picnicking is permitted in designated areas of the park. There are also cafes within a short walk. Reddit

The park is famous for being a filming location for the movie 'Labyrinth', particularly the bridge. It has also been used for productions like 'Bridgerton'. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There is no cafe directly within West Wycombe Park itself. However, there are two cafes located a short walk away on West Wycombe High Street: The Walled Garden and The Apple Orchard. Reddit

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy a picnic in the park's grounds. Reddit

Besides the two cafes mentioned, the village of West Wycombe and nearby High Wycombe offer various pubs and restaurants. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The 'Labyrinth' bridge, the Palladian mansion, the Temple of Music, and the views from the higher vantage points offer excellent photographic opportunities. TikTokInstagramReddit

Drone usage is typically restricted at National Trust properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check the specific National Trust guidelines for West Wycombe Park. Instagram

Photography inside West Wycombe House may be restricted, especially during guided tours. Check with staff on arrival for current policies. Instagram

Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers beautiful lighting for landscape and architectural photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing details. Instagram

Yes, recreating scenes from 'Labyrinth' on the bridge is a popular photo opportunity for fans. TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

West Wycombe Park offers a wonderful day out for families. The expansive grounds are perfect for running around, and the lake provides a focal point for exploration. Instagram+1 The 'Labyrinth' bridge is a huge hit with children who are fans of the movie, offering a chance for imaginative play. TikTok+1 For younger children, Clara's Corner in the walled garden offers a magical soft play experience designed for under 7s. Instagram Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as on-site facilities are limited, but there are lovely picnic spots. Reddit

❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways

With its picturesque landscapes, serene lakes, and elegant architecture, West Wycombe Park provides a romantic backdrop for couples. Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand around the grounds, discover hidden temples, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Instagram+1 The park has even been a venue for beautiful weddings, highlighting its romantic appeal. Instagram Consider visiting during the golden hour for breathtaking sunset views and a truly magical experience. Instagram

🎬 Film Buffs & Pop Culture Fans

Fans of the 1986 cult classic 'Labyrinth' will be thrilled to visit the iconic filming location. Recreate memorable scenes on the famous bridge and immerse yourself in the magic of the movie. TikTok+1 The park's timeless beauty has also attracted productions like 'Bridgerton', adding to its appeal for those interested in on-screen magic. Instagram Keep an eye out for special 'Labyrinth Experience' events that often feature character meet-and-greets. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Labyrinth Connection

West Wycombe Park holds a special place in the hearts of 'Labyrinth' fans, as the iconic bridge featured prominently in the 1986 Jim Henson film. Visitors can walk across this very bridge, imagining themselves alongside Sarah, Hoggle, and Ludo. TikTok+1 The park's enchanting atmosphere and fairytale-like setting made it a perfect backdrop for the movie's fantastical world. Many visitors, especially those attending special 'Labyrinth Experience' events, come specifically to relive these cinematic memories. TikTok+1 The presence of characters like Hoggle, brought to life by Crawley's Creature Shop, further enhances the immersive experience for fans. TikTok

Beyond the bridge, the park's overall aesthetic aligns with the whimsical and slightly mysterious tone of the film. The scattered temples, the serene lake, and the grand architecture contribute to a sense of wonder that resonates with the magic of 'Labyrinth'. It's a place where fantasy and reality beautifully intertwine for those who grew up with the movie. TikTok+1

A Glimpse into 18th-Century Grandeur

West Wycombe Park is a magnificent example of 18th-century Palladian architecture, designed by Sir Francis Dashwood. The estate boasts a stunning mansion, meticulously landscaped gardens, and a series of classical temples and follies that reflect the era's fascination with classical antiquity and picturesque landscapes. Instagram+1 The grounds are a masterpiece of landscape design, featuring a large lake, cascading water features, and carefully curated views across the Chiltern Hills. Instagram+1

The West Wycombe House itself offers a fascinating insight into the lives of the Dashwood family, who have owned the estate for generations. Visitors can explore opulent rooms filled with fine art and period furnishings, often through guided tours that delve into the history and social context of the house. Reddit The park's design encourages exploration, with winding paths leading to hidden gems like the Temple of Music, a tranquil spot for reflection. Reddit The entire estate feels like stepping back in time, offering a serene escape and a rich historical experience. Instagram

The Infamous Hellfire Caves

Adjacent to West Wycombe Park lie the intriguing Hellfire Caves, a network of man-made caverns carved into the chalk hills. These caves were commissioned in the 18th century by Sir Francis Dashwood, the founder of the notorious Hellfire Club, a secret society known for its extravagant and often scandalous gatherings. Instagram The caves themselves are a testament to the era's elaborate entertainment and secretive nature, featuring banqueting rooms, chapels, and even a tomb. Instagram

Exploring the Hellfire Caves offers a unique and somewhat eerie experience, providing a stark contrast to the serene beauty of the park above. Visitors can learn about the club's history, its alleged rituals, and the political intrigue that surrounded its members. Instagram The atmospheric tunnels and chambers create a sense of mystery and adventure, making it a compelling addition to any visit to the West Wycombe area. Instagram

You may also like