
Basildon Park
A stunning 18th-century stately home and parkland, famous as a filming location for 'Pride & Prejudice' and 'Downton Abbey.'

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

Basildon Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 18th-century stately home and parkland, famous as a filming location for 'Pride & Prejudice' and 'Downton Abbey.'
"A wonderful place to explore, especially with a National Trust membership. We'll definitely be back!"

🚗 Easiest to reach by car
Ample parking available, making it the most convenient way to visit.
🎬 Film buff's paradise
See filming locations for 'Pride & Prejudice,' 'Downton Abbey,' and more!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Netherfield Park (Pride & Prejudice)
The House
Step into the world of Jane Austen! See where Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy's tumultuous ball took place.

The Grand Stately Home
The House
Explore opulent Georgian architecture and rooms personalized by the last owners. A true step back in time.

Expansive Parkland
Grounds
Wander through beautiful gardens and vast parklands, perfect for a relaxing stroll or a longer walk.

Filming Exhibition
The House
Discover Basildon Park's cinematic past, featured in 'Downton Abbey,' 'The Crown,' and more.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: Timing is Key
Getting There: Car is King
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easiest to reach by car
Ample parking available, making it the most convenient way to visit.
🎬 Film buff's paradise
See filming locations for 'Pride & Prejudice,' 'Downton Abbey,' and more!
🚶♀️ Explore the grounds
Don't miss the extensive parklands for a lovely walk.
☕ Cafe delights (mostly)
Grab a bite at the cafe, though quality can vary.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easiest to reach by car
Ample parking available, making it the most convenient way to visit.
🎬 Film buff's paradise
See filming locations for 'Pride & Prejudice,' 'Downton Abbey,' and more!
🚶♀️ Explore the grounds
Don't miss the extensive parklands for a lovely walk.
☕ Cafe delights (mostly)
Grab a bite at the cafe, though quality can vary.
🌟 Friendly volunteers
Engage with knowledgeable National Trust volunteers for historical insights.
🎶 Live music events
Catch live music performances, adding to the atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Basildon Park is a highly recommended National Trust property, praised for its beautiful architecture, well-maintained grounds, and friendly, informative volunteers. Visitors enjoy the historical insights and the opportunity to explore its cinematic connections. While the cafe's food quality receives mixed reviews, the overall experience is considered a great day out.
"Fine manor house with plenty of woodland and pasture to explore. There’s ample parking which is a good thing as it’s only really possible to get there by car. The manor has great architecture and is very well maintained. There’s a cafe there but the food is a little below the standard I’d expect for a national trust venue."
CityStrider
"We had a splendid time at Basildon Park. The house is beautiful, my favourite room was the Seashell Room. Volunteers from National Trust were so friendly and full of historical information. We didn’t get a chance to have a long walk outside but we did manage to have a lovely short one after picking up a bite at the cafe. Look forward to coming back for a longer walk & a visit to the gift shop."
Brenda Sinclair
"Beautiful National Trust property. Unusual as downstairs the rooms were more formal but upstairs very personalised by last owners who only moved out to another wing late last century.
As usual, the volunteers were fantastic, tea room split over a number of rooms. Small gardens but large parklands to walk through.
Definitely worth a visit."
Craig K62
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Basildon Park is by car, with ample parking available on-site. If traveling by public transport, take a train from Paddington Station to Pangbourne, then catch bus #93 to Basildon Park Gates.
Yes, there is ample parking available for visitors at Basildon Park, which is a significant convenience for those traveling by car.
Yes, you can visit Basildon Park without a car by taking a train to Pangbourne and then a bus. However, it requires more planning and transfers.
The nearest train station to Basildon Park is Pangbourne. From there, you can take a bus to reach the estate.
While the grounds offer walking opportunities, consider the public transport route if you have mobility concerns, as it involves multiple steps.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees apply for Basildon Park. It's recommended to check the official National Trust website for the most current pricing and to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or special events.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance for Basildon Park is advisable, particularly for special events or during busy periods, to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
Opening hours for Basildon Park can vary seasonally and for special events. Always check the National Trust website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, Basildon Park is a National Trust property, so members can typically enter for free.
Discounts may be available for certain groups or during specific promotions. Check the National Trust website or inquire at the entrance for any applicable offers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Basildon Park, you can explore the beautifully restored stately home, wander through its extensive parklands and gardens, and visit the filming exhibition showcasing its cinematic appearances.
Yes, Basildon Park offers activities for families, including summer play events with games and musical instruments. The grounds are also great for children to explore.
Photography is generally permitted inside Basildon Park for personal use, but always check for any specific restrictions in certain rooms or exhibitions.
Dogs are typically allowed in the parkland and gardens at Basildon Park, but usually not inside the house itself. Check the National Trust guidelines for specific rules.
Visitors often highlight the Seashell Room as a favorite. The upstairs rooms offer a more personalized glimpse into the lives of the last owners.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Basildon Park has a cafe where you can grab a bite to eat. It's split over a few rooms and offers a place to refuel during your visit.
The cafe offers food options, though some visitors have noted the quality can be a bit below expectations for a National Trust venue.
Information about afternoon tea at Basildon Park is not widely available in the provided content. It's best to check the National Trust website or contact them directly for current offerings. [^SEO]
While not explicitly mentioned, the extensive parklands at Basildon Park would likely be suitable for picnics. It's advisable to bring your own food and find a scenic spot.
For dining options beyond the onsite cafe, you would need to travel to nearby towns like Reading or Pangbourne, which offer a wider selection of restaurants and pubs.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand architecture of the house, the sweeping gardens, and the expansive parklands offer numerous picturesque photo opportunities. The filming exhibition also provides unique backdrops.
Drone usage is typically restricted at National Trust properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's essential to check the specific drone policy for Basildon Park before flying. [^SEO]
Specific photography tours are not mentioned, but the beauty of the estate makes it a great location for amateur photographers.
Basildon Park is popular for its historical architecture, cinematic filming locations, and beautiful natural landscapes, making it ideal for period drama, landscape, and architectural photography.
Yes, the expansive grounds offer various vantage points to capture stunning photos of the stately home from different angles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎬 Film Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers & Walkers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Basildon Park: A Cinematic Gem
Most notably, Basildon Park served as Netherfield Park in the 2005 film adaptation of Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice,' where the memorable ball scene between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy took place. It has also been featured in 'Downton Abbey' as the Crawley family's London residence, and has appeared in productions like 'The Crown' and 'Bridgerton.' An exhibition on-site often showcases its cinematic past, allowing visitors to delve deeper into its role in bringing these stories to life.
This cinematic connection adds an extra layer of magic to a visit, allowing guests to not only appreciate the historical significance and beauty of the estate but also to connect with the on-screen worlds they know and love. It’s a unique opportunity to experience a piece of film history firsthand.
Exploring the Basildon Park Estate
Beyond the formal gardens, the parkland stretches out, offering ample space for longer walks and exploration. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the landscape, which has been a key feature of the estate since its original design. During the summer, the National Trust often organizes 'Summer of Play' activities, featuring games like skittles, badminton, and musical instruments, making it a fun destination for families.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk, a family-friendly activity, or simply a chance to connect with nature, the grounds of Basildon Park provide a delightful escape. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for exploring the expansive areas.
The History and Restoration of Basildon Park
Fortunately, in the 1950s, Lord and Lady Iliffe purchased the estate and undertook a significant restoration project. Their efforts saved Basildon Park from ruin, preserving its architectural beauty and historical significance. Now managed by the National Trust, the house showcases a blend of its original Georgian elegance and the more personalized touches of its last private owners, offering a unique glimpse into its past.
This history of near-loss and subsequent revival makes Basildon Park a particularly poignant destination. Visitors can appreciate not only the aesthetic appeal but also the dedication involved in preserving such a significant piece of British heritage.
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