Waddesdon, A Rothschild House & Gardens

Elegant garden with fountain and flowerbeds at sunrise.
Victorian greenhouse surrounded by manicured garden and statues.
Rose Garden, June 2014
Aerial view of a historic mansion and gardens

Set in the heart of Buckinghamshire, the impressive French Renaissance-style château of Waddesdon boasts sweeping landscapes and manicured gardens that are full of colour and variety throughout the year. See seasonal highlights that include daffodils and spring bulbs, the Parterre in summer, rich autumn colours and drifts of snowdrops in winter.

Originally laid out in the 1870s and 1880s for Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild, the gardens open up to rolling parkland with hidden glades, magnificent woodland and picturesque views. Taking inspiration from its Victorian heritage, the formal garden displays are changed twice a year, in May and October, and are full of vibrant planting that complement the seasons.
Hear rare birds call from the ornate Aviary, take a tour of the impressive garden statuary and learn more about the gardens and their history at regular free guided gardens walks and tours.

Fact File

Opening hours
(Grounds and gardens): 10 January to 8 February, weekends only, free for all, 14 February to 24 March, weekends only, prices apply. 25 March to 29 November, Wednesdays to Sundays 10:00 to 17:00, last entry at 16:00
Admission Rates: 10 January to 8 February, free to all visitors
(Individuals): 14 February to 29 November: Individuals Adult £14.00 Child £7.00, Wednesday to Sunday until 29th November (inclusive)
Group Rates: Adult £11.45 and child £5.95
Facilities: Cafés and restaurants serving brunches, lunches and afternoon teas, wine and gift shop, wine cellars, aviary, woodland playground and Coach House gallery with annual exhibitions.
Disabled Access: Mostly. Some gravelled pathways and steps.
Toilets: Yes, including a Changing Places toilet.
Events: Full annual programme of walks, talks, exhibitions and festivals. Please see website for full calendar.
Car/Coach Parking: Yes
Length of Visit: 3-4 hours
Booking Contact: Box Office, Waddesdon, Nr Aylesbury, Bucks HP18 0JH
Telephone: 01296 820414
Email: enquiries@waddesdon.org.uk
Website: www.waddesdon.org.uk
Location: Just off the A41 between Bicester and Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire. Sat Nav post code is HP18 0JH. The main visitor entrance is via Silk Street.

Updated: January 2026