Avington Park - © Mike Searle
Avington Park is set in the scenic Itchen Valley close to Winchester in Hampshire, the historic house has a number of rooms in the house visitors can see including the impressive State Rooms. Located in the scenic backdrop of the English countryside Avington offers visitors the chance to visit a historic house and view some notable collections. The house is noted for its Georgian architecture and period features, Avington is also popular for a range of corporate function and as a wedding venue offering a great historical setting.
Attractions
The history of Avington Park dates back to the 10th century, Avington was originally owned by the Cathedral of Winchester until King Henry VIII proceeded to give the estate to Edmund Clerke. By the middle of the 17th century the house was owned by George Brydges who proceeded to enlarge the house so it could cater for the King and Nell Gwynne.
Further along in its history the house was inherited by the 3rd Duke of Chandos who made a number of improvements to house including adding fountains, statutes, establishing the gardens and parkland and redecorating the state rooms. After a few more changes of ownership in 1953 the estate was sold on to Lt. Col and Mrs Hickson and is currently in trust with their family.
Avington is a Georgian Manor House displaying the classical design of pillars surmounted by three graceful statues. The house has been built to face west overlooking the lawns and on to the lake. The lime tree avenue takes visitors down to the side of the house whilst on the southern side there are two iron conservatories that flank a pillared orangery.
Visitors viewing the inside of the house are likely to be impressed by the decor and design, it is visually extremely impressive. The rooms create a great impression for visitors, the most striking and visually impressive of the rooms are the state rooms
The State Rooms that are lavishly decorated and contain fine furniture one such example is the wonderfully painted Ballroom contains floor length windows looking out to the lake outside. There are very large mirrors located on all four walls that reflect the light giving the room an air of being even more spacious, the room is among the highlights of any trip here.
The Drawing Room is another prominent room in the house and comes complete with the unique decoration that includes some wonderful and intricate finely gilded ceiling and hand painted walls. Among the other rooms of note are the Hall which is known for the hand painted trompe l’oeil ceiling and walls.
Avington has featured in a number of films over the years, the site has also been used to film documentaries, advertisement and for photography. The scenic location and beautiful backdrop make it a sought after location.
How to Get There
The house can be accessed by both car and public transport:
By Car:
Avington is located approx 75 miles from London. From London take the A4 then the M4 exit the M4 Motorway at junction 4b and take the M25, drive until junction 12 of the M25 and exit on to the M3 and drive on the M3 until junction 9 and exit here on to the A272 Winchester, at the first roundabout take the first left on to A272 heading for the A31, at the Spitfire roundabout take the first left turn on to the A31. Drive along the A31 until the next roundabout and take the third exit on to Alresford Road and drive along the road until the entrance for the house on the left.
There is parking on site.
For those using Satellite Navigation systems the postcode is S021 1DB
By Train:
From London Waterloo in central London and from Clapham Junction a few miles south of the city trains are available to Winchester Station. The journey time is approx 50 minutes to one hour. The station at Winchester is approx 4 miles from the site, from the station visitors can get a taxi to the site.
Contact Details
Avington Park
Winchester
Hampshire
S021 1DB
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0)1962 779260
Fax: +44 (0)1962 779 202
email: enquiries@avingtonpark.co.uk
Website: Avington Park
Facilities & Information
Opening Times:
Open from May until September:
From 14.30 until 17.30 (Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays)
From 14.30 until 17.30 (Sunday & Monday in August)
Last tour starts at 17.00.
Further Information:
Admission Prices:
Adults: £4 approx, Children: £2.50 approx,
Facilities:
There are a range of refreshments, drinks and snacks available for visitors.
There is disabled access available however it is wise to double check by phoning in advance to get the latest information.
Map
View Larger Map
For Local Search and Directions see: Avington Park Map
Tips & Other Considerations
There may be some variations on the opening hours depending on the time of year and other factors. It is recommended visitors double check before going to ensure the attraction you wish to see is open.
When travelling follow travel safety tips and remain alert, vigilant and aware of your belongings at all times. Ensure valuables i.e. your wallet/purse are hidden away from public view. If you have a bag try to use a shoulder bag with a good quality, strong strap, that is put across your shoulder not on your shoulder making it more difficult for anyone to take your bag.
If you are travelling by car to the Park, ensure you are well prepared with maps and Sat Nav to aid your journey, particularly if you are not familiar with the local area and roads. Use the journey planner for door to door directions and trip planning. Check the latest traffic updates before you travel.
If you are travelling by public transport, check for service updates prior to beginning your journey for any delays, disruption or cancellations to services that may impact on your journey. Ensure you have the service timetables for the trains, buses and coaches. Remember when the last services are and ensure you make it to the train/bus/coach stops well in time.
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.
