Wilton House - © John Goodall
Wilton House is an impressive heritage attraction located in Wilton in the county of Wiltshire. The historic house is located on a large estate and it the home for the current Earl of Pembroke. For visitors there are a number of attractions to see these include viewing the historic house, the surroundings grounds that include the gardens and a number of exhibition areas. A visit here offers an interesting day out for the whole family, the house is located in a scenic setting with surrounding parkland.
Attractions
Wilton House is located a few miles from the town of Salisbury and first opened its doors for the public to view back in 1951 since that time many visitors from around the world have seen the house and grounds. The house as it stands today is located on the site of a nunnery originally founded by King Alfred that dated back to the 9th century.
In the 12th century a Benedictine abbey had replaced the nunnery however by the time of the Dissolution of the monasteries during the reign of King Henry VIII the site then passed on to William Herbert in 1542. It is since this time in the 16th century that Wilton House has been in the Herbert family. The house has remained in the family ever since and has subsequently become the home of the Earl of Pembroke.
Over the years the house and the gardens have been extended and improved and the house is recognised as a fine example of period architecture and design. From 1987 until 1992 there was a major restoration and renovation project that was carried out on the inside and outside of the building bringing the house back to past glories. Visitors to the house now will see an impressive and imposing country manor that has maintained its historical and period features and character.
Wilton Estate is currently approx a third of its size back in the 1870s however it is still a substantial estate comprising of over 14,000 acres that includes valleys and rivers. The estate mainly consists of farms and residential and commercial properties, recent years have seen the introduction of a range of tourist related initiatives and operations. There is also a racecourse and golf course located within the estate.
The Grounds at Wilton cover an area of 21 acres and within them there are four formal gardens to see. Given the size of the gardens there is something to see year round here for visitors. Visitors can take a walk around the grounds incorporating the gardens, the main areas of interest take approx 45 minutes to see when taking a stroll through them. There is also an Adventure Playground for children, this is a child's paradise with something for children, toddlers and early teens. The playground offers children the chance to enjoy an adventure and some exciting fun when visiting Wilton.
The Old Riding School, Exhibitions and Film offer additional attractions for visitors to see whilst visiting Wilton. At the exhibition area of the Old Riding School there are displays of a wide array of interesting objects that were used at one time on the estate.
Other rooms on display include the Tudor kitchen, a Victorian laundry and the Wilton House dolls houses giving a real sense of history and heritage. Visitors can see the 20 minute film that shows a dramatised account of the history of the house and the Herbert family and the Earls of Pembroke.
How to Get There
The Rooms can be accessed by both car and public transport:
By Car:
Salisbury is located in the county of Wiltshire and is approx 95 miles from central London, the approx journey time is 2 hours to 2 hours 15 minutes. From London take the A4 then take the M4 and drive to junction 4b and take the M25, exit the M25 at junction 12 and take the M3 towards Southampton. Exit at junction 8 on to the A303 and drive until the junction with the A360 and take the left turn on to the A360 heading for Wilton /Salisbury. Drive until the right turning for The Ave, turn in to The Ave and drive until the roundabout with the A30 and take the second exit on to Minster Street, keep driving and you will see the house.
For those using Satellite Navigation systems the postcode is SP2 0BJ.
By Train:
From London Waterloo Station in central London there are regular trains available to Salisbury Station. Visitors can then take buses 60, 60A and 61 outside of the station to take them to the house.
By Bus:
The bus route numbers 60 60A and 61 offer local bus services from both Salisbury Town Centre and outside Salisbury train station. The bus stops outside of the house offering convenient access for visitors. The frequency is approx every 20 minutes.
Contact Details
Wilton House
The Estate Office
Salisbury
Wiltshire
SP2 0BJ
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0)1722 746700
Fax: +44 (0)1722 744447
email: admin@wiltonhouse.com
Website: Wilton House
Facilities & Information
Opening Times:
The House: May until end of August
Open from 12.00 until 17.00 (Sunday to Thursday & Bank Holiday Saturday, usually closed on Friday & Saturdays)
The Grounds: May until end of September
Open from 11.00 until 17.30 (Daily from May until end of August & Weekends in September)
Old Riding School, Exhibitions & Film:
Open from 12.00 until 17.00 (Sunday to Thursday & Bank Holiday Saturday usually closed on Friday & Saturdays)
NOTE: It is recommended visitors check before going to ensure the house and attractions are open before going.
Further Information:
For House and Grounds:
Adults: £12.00 approx, Children: £6.50 approx, Concessions: £9.75 approx & Family Ticket: £30 approx.
For the Grounds, including the Adventure Playground:
Adults: £5.00 approx, Children: £3.50 approx, Concessions: £4.50 approx & Family Ticket: £15 approx.
Entrance to the Old Riding School, Exhibitions and Film are included in the cost of the House and Grounds ticket.
Facilities:
There is a Restaurant that serves a range of refreshments and drinks and light lunches and snacks.
The shop sells a range of gifts, souvenirs and memorabilia.
The house and the grounds are wheelchair assessable.
Map
View Larger Map
For Local Search and Directions see: Wilton House 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.
Follow sensible travel tips and 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 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 Salisbury, 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. For door to door directions use the route planner to help plan your trip. Check on the traffic information before travelling.
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 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.
