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Basildon Park

4.5
·4k reviews·Lower Basildon, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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15..

Basildon Park

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.5
(4k reviews)

"A wonderful place to explore, especially with a National Trust membership. We'll definitely be back!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Netherfield Park (Pride & Prejudice)

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 Grand Stately Home

The House

Explore opulent Georgian architecture and rooms personalized by the last owners. A true step back in time.

Expansive Parkland

Expansive Parkland

Grounds

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

Filming Exhibition

Filming Exhibition

The House

Discover Basildon Park's cinematic past, featured in 'Downton Abbey,' 'The Crown,' and more.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit: Timing is Key

Basildon Park is a popular spot, especially for fans of period dramas. Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Check the National Trust website for seasonal events like Christmas festivities or Easter egg hunts, as these can draw larger numbers.

Getting There: Car is King

While public transport is an option, many visitors find it easiest to reach Basildon Park by car. Ample parking is available, which is a significant plus. If using public transport, factor in train and bus connections.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Enjoy gardens before the heat
Crowd
Medium
When
Christmas season
Why
Festive decorations and events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

10/10 suggest visiting Basildon Park when in London! #prideandprejudice #netherfieldpark #basildonpark
@caitlinmmoynihan
68.7K likes • 303K views

🚗 Easiest to reach by car

Ample parking available, making it the most convenient way to visit. Reddit

🎬 Film buff's paradise

See filming locations for 'Pride & Prejudice,' 'Downton Abbey,' and more! TikTokInstagram

ᴬᴰ Fun things to do this Christmas - Visit a @National Trust Near You🌳🥾 [Save to add to your Christmas bucket list 🎄] 📍Basildon Park, Lower Basildon, Reading RG8 9NR 🌳 Explore hundreds of National Trust sites across the UK - visit the website to find your local site. 🌺 Discover beautiful gardens, explore historic houses and more 🎅🏼 Enjoy other festive activities at the National Trust including C...
@runawaywithrachel
13.3K likes • 12.1M views
Basildon Park in Oxfordshire is a place that shouldn’t be. In the mid twentieth century the great houses of the UK were being torn down at an alarming rate, Basildon Park stood empty and ripe to be wiped from the face of the earth, however in the 1950’s it was purchased and restored by Lord and Lady Iliffe. Now in the hands of the National Trust it remains at once a reminder of eighteenth century ...
prometheusantiques
97 likes • 1.2K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the grounds

Don't miss the extensive parklands for a lovely walk. Reddit

☕ Cafe delights (mostly)

Grab a bite at the cafe, though quality can vary. Reddit

“Pride and Prejudice” filming location only 1,5h from London? Let’s go on a day trip together ☁️ Welcome to  📍Basildon Park 🚙 it’s located about 1,5h from central London by car  🚄 (by public transport) take a train from Paddington Station to Pangbourne, then hop on bus # 93 from the railway station and get off at Basildon Park Gates 🎟️ The building and grounds belong to @nationaltrust so if yo...
baga.finds
524 likes • 9.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Easiest to reach by car

Ample parking available, making it the most convenient way to visit. Reddit

🎬 Film buff's paradise

See filming locations for 'Pride & Prejudice,' 'Downton Abbey,' and more! TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore the grounds

Don't miss the extensive parklands for a lovely walk. Reddit

☕ Cafe delights (mostly)

Grab a bite at the cafe, though quality can vary. Reddit

🌟 Friendly volunteers

Engage with knowledgeable National Trust volunteers for historical insights. Reddit

🎶 Live music events

Catch live music performances, adding to the atmosphere. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(4k reviews)

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

Beautiful architecture
Extensive parklands
Friendly volunteers

What People Dislike

Cafe food quality

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. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is ample parking available for visitors at Basildon Park, which is a significant convenience for those traveling by car. Reddit

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. Instagram

The nearest train station to Basildon Park is Pangbourne. From there, you can take a bus to reach the estate. Instagram

While the grounds offer walking opportunities, consider the public transport route if you have mobility concerns, as it involves multiple steps. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

Yes, Basildon Park is a National Trust property, so members can typically enter for free. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. TikTokInstagramReddit

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. Instagram

Photography is generally permitted inside Basildon Park for personal use, but always check for any specific restrictions in certain rooms or exhibitions. Instagram

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. Instagram

Visitors often highlight the Seashell Room as a favorite. The upstairs rooms offer a more personalized glimpse into the lives of the last owners. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit+1

The cafe offers food options, though some visitors have noted the quality can be a bit below expectations for a National Trust venue. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

📸 📸 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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

Yes, the expansive grounds offer various vantage points to capture stunning photos of the stately home from different angles. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Basildon Park is a great outing for families! During the summer, look out for the 'Summer of Play' events which include fun activities like skittles, badminton, and musical instruments. Instagram The expansive parkland is perfect for kids to run around and explore, and the house itself, with its historical significance, can spark imagination. Instagram Remember to check the National Trust website for any specific family-friendly events or trails. Instagram

🎬 Film Enthusiasts

For fans of period dramas, Basildon Park is a must-visit. You can walk the halls that served as Netherfield Park in 'Pride and Prejudice' (2005) TikTokInstagram+1 and the London home of the Crawleys in 'Downton Abbey.' Instagram+1 Explore the filming exhibition to learn more about its cinematic appearances in shows like 'The Crown' and 'Bridgerton.' Instagram It's an immersive experience that brings your favorite on-screen worlds to life. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Nature Lovers & Walkers

The extensive parklands and gardens at Basildon Park offer a beautiful setting for a relaxing walk. InstagramReddit You can spend hours exploring the grounds, enjoying the scenery, and breathing in the fresh air. Wear comfortable shoes, as the parkland can be quite expansive. Instagram It's an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful escape into nature. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Basildon Park: A Cinematic Gem

Basildon Park has a rich history of being a filming location for numerous popular movies and TV shows. Its stunning Georgian architecture and picturesque grounds have made it a sought-after backdrop for period dramas. Visitors can step into the shoes of their favorite characters and explore the very locations where iconic scenes were filmed. TikTokInstagram+2

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. TikTokInstagram+2 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.' Instagram+2 An exhibition on-site often showcases its cinematic past, allowing visitors to delve deeper into its role in bringing these stories to life. Instagram

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. Instagram

Exploring the Basildon Park Estate

Basildon Park is more than just its grand house; its extensive grounds offer a diverse and engaging experience for visitors. The estate boasts beautiful gardens that are meticulously maintained, providing a serene environment for a leisurely stroll. InstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

The History and Restoration of Basildon Park

Basildon Park is a testament to resilience and restoration. Originally built in the mid-18th century for Sir Francis Sykes, an East India Company official, it was designed as a luxurious country retreat. Instagram However, by the mid-20th century, the grand house faced the threat of demolition, a common fate for many historic estates at the time. Instagram It stood empty and vulnerable, ripe for being lost forever.

Fortunately, in the 1950s, Lord and Lady Iliffe purchased the estate and undertook a significant restoration project. Instagram 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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

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