Wimpole Estate

From Iron-age roundhouses to a sophisticated, modern estate, this site has been lived on and farmed for over 2,000 years.

Over the centuries, Wimpole has been owned by several families, and each has left its mark. The Civil War, a true love match and a collection of priceless manuscripts that formed the core of the British Library are just some of its stories.

One of Wimpole’s owners was Attorney-General Philip Yorke. His opinion that an enslaved person did not become free on reaching English soil governed legal thought on slavery for nearly half a century.

The present house, at the heart of this estate, was the vision of Elsie Bambridge. Wimpole had been an empty shell until she filled it with pictures and furniture, bringing it back to a welcoming home in the 1930s.

Intimate rooms contrast with beautiful and unexpected Georgian interiors, including Soane's remarkable Yellow Drawing Room and wonderful plunge bath. The fascinating basement corridor offers a glimpse into life below stairs.

Stroll around the parterre garden and wander through the Pleasure Ground to the Walled Garden, abundant with fruit, vegetables and beautiful herbaceous borders.

Home Farm contrasts the traditional farmyard with the noisy modern piggery and cattle sheds, with daily farm activities there is a chance to join in and discover more about farming.

Stride out across the landscape park, among the rare-breed cattle, through grand avenues, before entering shaded woodland and emerging into an arable landscape.