Skip to content

Exploring Westwood Manor

The north and west ranges of Westwood Manor, Wiltshire
The north and west ranges of Westwood Manor | © National Trust Images/James Dobson

Westwood Manor may be small but, thanks to the care and attention of its current tenants, its beautifully restored rooms have a domestic feel. Take a look at some of the highlights of this 15th-century stone manor house.

Restoring a historic home

Built over three centuries from the 15th century, Westwood Manor was adapted and changed for succeeding generations.

Restoration in the 20th century had a big impact on the property – thanks to the restorers' skills and understanding of medieval, Tudor and Jacobean periods.

The spinet in the Music Room, Westwood Manor, Wiltshire
The spinet in the Music Room at Westwood Manor | © National Trust Images/James Dobson

20th century restoration

In 1911 Edgar 'Ted' Lister bought Westwood Manor, and with much attention to detail, restored it to its 17th century glory.

Taking back alterations, he uncovered original wall panelling, ceilings and even original window glazing hidden beneath plaster. You can discover all this on your visit.

Historic musical instruments

The country's earliest Italian keyboard instrument forms part of the collection at Westwood Manor – a virginal dating from 1537.

There is also a spinet, built by Stephen Keene in London, from 1711. In 2009, with the support of the National Trust and private supporters, both were restored to full working order.

A view of the manor house and the clipped column-like yews in evening sunlight, Westwood Manor, Wiltshire
A view of Westwood Manor house and the clipped column-like yews in evening sunlight | © National Trust Images/James Dobson

Curious topiary

The garden at Westwood Manor is a tranquil haven with lawns and topiary, and there is little to distract from its peaceful simplicity.

Lister created two small pool gardens, now covered in water lilies, and home to the rare and protected great crested newt.

Inside the Hall decorated as it looked in 1926, in Westwood Manor, Wiltshire

Discover more at Westwood Manor

Find out when Westwood Manor is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.

You might also be interested in

An adult and child explore the medieval cloisters at Lacock Abbey, Wiltshire
Article
Article

History of Lacock Abbey 

In its 800 years of history, Lacock has been an Augustinian abbey, a Tudor family home, a birthplace of photography, and a film and TV location.

The outside of Great Chalfield Manor in summer seen from across the moat
Article
Article

Explore Great Chalfield Manor and Garden 

Discover a unique 15th-century manor house brimming with history, and a one of a kind romantic Arts and Crafts garden.

Detail of the highly decorated ceiling of the Boudoir, attributed to Louis-Andre Delabriere at Attingham Park, Shropshire
Article
Article

Collection items inspired by romance 

Many items in our collections have been inspired by historic romance and passionate real-life relationships. Take a look at this selection of works of art and tokens of love from the places we look after.

Close-up detail of Medusa's head at the back of the statue of Fame and Pegasus (c1705) by Andries Carpentiere, at Powis Castle, Wales
Article
Article

Mysterious objects in our collections 

There are many intriguing objects with connections to magic, mystery or death at the places in our care. From a witch's cauldron to death masks and a boat made of bones, discover some of the most mysterious objects in their collections.

Rainbow across the Victorian revival house at Tyntesfield, Somerset - exterior

Houses and buildings 

Historic buildings are a treasure trove of stories, art and collections. Learn more about their histories and plan your next visit.

Visitors exploring the medieval cloisters at Lacock Abbey, Wiltshire

Houses and buildings in Wiltshire 

Discover grand mansions and family homes including a former abbey and the surrounding village. Step inside to explore rooms, spiral staircases and towers. Bring the whole family to enjoy a fun day out in Wiltshire.