Ragley Hall, Warwickshire
Ragley Hall is located within the Ragley Estate in the Warwickshire countryside, the historic house dates back to the 17th century, it is the family home of the Marquess and Marchioness of Hertford. The historic estate, Palladian house, gardens and parkland offer visitors a fine day out in the scenic countryside for the whole family. The venue is a popular one for weddings, corporate and outdoor events.
Attractions
Ragley Hall is the main attraction for visitors to the estate, the house was built back in 1680 by Robert Hooke and is considered among the finest examples of a Palladian House in the UK. The house is home to a wide range of fine collections, these include impressive collections of art and art work, fine furniture and porcelain among others. The house has been in the Conway Seymour family since the 17th century and is still the family home of the Marquess and Marchioness of Hertford.
Inside the house there are a number of impressive and imposing rooms for visitors to see during a tour.
The Great Hall is renowned for the baroque plasterwork that was designed back in the mid 18th century. There are also figures located above the fireplaces that signify War & Peace. The room is both grand and impressive and has become a popular place for weddings. The South Staircase Hall was decorated in 1969; on the ceiling visitors will see the painted open topped dome.
The State Dining Room is a well decorated room that is mainly used for corporate events in addition to a number of family celebrations, the centrepiece is the large, fine dining table, visitors here are likely to have a feast fit for a king! Visitors can also see other interesting rooms such as the library, drawing rooms and music room.
The Red Saloon is a most impressive drawing room and today it remains the way it was originally designed by James Wyatt back in 1780. Notable features in the room include the silk damask on the walls and the Louis XVI furniture; these have been restored over the years ensuring they keep the same colour and pattern. Other features include the grand fireplace and chandelier adding to the opulent feel in the room.
The Gardens at Ragley provide another highlight for visitors, spread over 10 hectares, the gardens are an impressive sight and surround the historic house. The estate here also has approx 400 acres of parkland designed by Capability Brown dating back to the 18th century. Towards the end of the 19th century the formal flower garden was created as a way to display the plants that had been discovered in the Americas. There are still reminders of the original garden with trees having natured providing a great place for new creations in the garden.
The gardens are now maintained with the aim of preserving and optimising the habitats and resources for all wildlife including animals and birds. The Rose Garden was created in the 19th century as a Victorian flower garden however over the years it was neglected before restoration during the 1960s, the garden was brought back to life and there are now plans for further developments.
The Mixed Border garden has a range of colours and visitors can see the garden from spring all the way until the early part of autumn. There is a wide range of flora on display here. The Spring Bulb Bank offers a wonderful show of colour for visitors to see early on in the season; visitors can look out for snowdrops in the winter and colourful lilac hues of crocus which can be seen on the length of the bank. In the summer the daffodils come to life along with primroses, violas and buttercups among others.
The Scott Garden is a more recent addition to the garden opening in 2004; the garden has a number of interesting features that include the fountain and the ponds. There are a number of small ponds that attract wildlife to them. The Sculpture Park on the grounds offers the chance for visitors to see a wonderful collection of sculptures; visitors can follow the Jerwood Foundation Sculpture Trail at Ragley and find the fascinating collection. There are a number of renowned and prize winning sculptures as part of the display here.
The Kids Zone offers children a fun place to play on the grounds. There is a 3D maze along with trampolines, swings, climbing frames and more. There is a range of adventure attractions designed to keep children occupied and happy. There is also a tranquil lakeside picnic area close by and fans of nature can take a stroll through the Woodland Walk situated in the scenic park offering some wonderful picturesque views
How to Get There
Ragley can be accessed by both car and public transport:
By Car:
The Hall is located approx 110 miles from central London. The approx journey time is 2 hour 15 minutes from London. From London take the A4, then the M4 until junction 4b. Take the M25 and at junction 16 take the M40 toward Birmingham, drive on the M40 until junction 15 and exit on to the A46 heading for Stratford, drive until the Oversley Mill roundabout, here take the second exit on to A46 Alchester Road, at the next Arrow Roundabout take the exit first exit on to the A422 and drive along the road, the hall is located further up on the right.
There are parking facilities located on site.
For those using Satellite Navigation systems the postcode is B49 5NJ.
By Train:
From London Marylebone station in central London there are trains available to Stratford upon Avon station located approx 8 miles from the site. The Approx journey time is 2 hour and 20 minutes. Visitors can get a taxi from Stratford upon Avon.
Contact Details
Ragley Hall
Alcester
Warwickshire
B49 5NJ
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0)1789 762 090
Visitor Enquiries: 0800 093 0290
email: ragley@ragleyhall.com
Website: Ragley Hall
Facilities & Information
Opening Times:
The House
Open from February until October:
Open between 12.00 until 16.00 (Sundays & School Holidays, not open on Saturdays)
For the Park & Gardens:
Open from February until the end of October:
Open between 10.00 until 18.00 (School holidays and Weekends)
NOTE: It is recommended visitors check before going to ensure the Castle & Gardens are open before going, the opening days vary according to the time of year.
Further Information:
Admission:
Adults: £8.50 approx, Children: £5.00 approx, Concessions £7.00 approx, and Family ticket: £27.00 approx.
Facilities:
There is disabled assess in most areas, it is recommended visitors with any special requirements should contact the house prior to going for the latest advice.
The Cafe serves a range of drinks, cakes, light snacks and ice creams, visitors can enjoy a BBQ during the summer months.
The Lakeside shop offers a range of gifts and souvenirs for visitors.
Map
View Larger Map
For Local Search and Directions see: Ragley Hall Map
Tips & Other Considerations
Opening hours may vary 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 and avoid disappointment.
When travelling remain alert, vigilant and aware of your surroundings 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 worn across your shoulder not on your shoulder making it more difficult for anyone to take your bag.
If you are travelling by car to Ragley in Warwickshire, 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 route & journey planning tool for door to door directions for your trip. Before you begin your trip check the traffic updates and information.
If you are travelling by public transport, check service updates before you travel, 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 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.
