Open today 10am - 6pm, Opening Times

Longleat, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW, Get Directions

Longleat House

Grandeur, stories, and style

Built between 1567 and 1580, Longleat House is one of the finest examples of Elizabethan architecture, and one of the first stately homes in Britain to open its doors to the public back in 1949.

Home to the 8th Marquess and Marchioness of Bath, Longleat House was completed in 1580 after more than 20 years of construction and is widely regarded as one of Britain’s finest examples of Elizabethan architecture.

In 1948, Henry Thynne, 6th Marquess of Bath, made the bold decision to open the house to the public, one of the first to try this "drastic but very brave experiment in upkeep".

On 1 April 1949, Longleat opened its doors. Lord Bath directed traffic, Lady Bath issued tickets, and their children sold the guidebook to visitors dressed in their Sunday best.

More than sixty years on, the doors remain open to visitors. This living landmark invites you to explore its rich past, incredible collection, and ever-evolving exhibitions.

Visit the House

Write yourself into Longleat's history with a Guided or Self-Guided Tour. Wander through grand rooms and hidden halls where centuries of stories come to life.

A house steeped in history

(our guide) was incredibly knowledgeable, relatable, funny and personable, making the tour fly by. The house and its history and stories are remarkable, well worth the trip.

Robin D - Trip Advisor

Don't miss Emma's Kitchen

Using the atmospheric backdrop of the House’s historic kitchens Emma, Marchioness of Bath, has created an exciting attraction celebrating more than 440 years of cooking and recipe creation at Longleat. Inspired by this rich, and delicious, history Emma has created a selection of recipes and mouth-watering treats which visitors can purchase. The range includes luxurious homewares and exclusive boutique items.

Exceptional Longleat experiences

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