The scale, grandeur and beauty of Stowe has inspired writers, philosophers, artists, politicians and members of the public from the 18th century to the present day. One of the most remarkable creations of Georgian England, Stowe was created by a family once so powerful they were richer than the king. Since the National Trust acquired the gardens in the late 1980s, an ambitious programme of restoration has ensured that over 40 temples and monuments remain, gracing an inspiring backdrop of lakes and valleys with an endless variety of walks and trails, a delight to explore at any time of year
Don't miss
Wander through one of the 18th-century's greatest landscapes.
Pick your favourite temple and guess its hidden meaning.
Enjoy the lakeside walks, wooded valleys and open vistas.
Making the most of your day
Guided walks most days. Tracker Packs for families. Occasional open-air theatre events. Dogs on leads only
Opening times
Gardens, shop and tea-room*
02-Jan - 28-Feb-10
10:30 - 4
Sa
Su
03-Mar - 31-Oct-10
10:30 - 5:30
We
Th
Fr
Sa
Su
06-Nov - 19-Dec-10
10:30 - 4
Sa
Su
Shop only special Christmas opening
03-Nov - 17-Dec-10
11 - 3
We
Th
Fr
Parkland
Open all year
Dawn till dusk
Mo
Tu
We
Th
Fr
Sa
Su
KEY: Dark blue=open
Open Bank Holiday Mondays and Monday and Tuesday during half terms 15 to 19 February, 31 May to 4 June, 25 to 29 October. Last admission 90 minutes before closing or dusk if earlier. Closed Saturday 29 May. *Tea-room closes 30 minutes before gardens and shop. Please note gardens may close early towards end of October due to shorter daylight hours. May close in severe weather conditions.
Gift Aid Admission (Standard Admission prices in brackets) Gardens: adult £7.50 (£6.80), child £3.80 (£3.45), family £18.80 (£17.05). House and house tours: telephone infoline for details. Charge including members. House (not National Trust) admission payable at National Trust Reception
For more information on any of the symbols used on this page, please see our
Symbol Guide.
Places nearby
Canons Ashby
Claydon
King's Head
Waddesdon Manor
Guidebook
To find out more about Stowe Landscape Gardens buy the guide before you visit