Woodchester Mansion Trust - Image 1

Woodchester Mansion Trust

Nympsfield, United Kingdom•4.6(768)•Heritage Site, Historic House

Explore an unfinished Victorian Gothic mansion with fascinating history, bat colonies, and family-friendly tours in a historic Gloucestershire estate.

Woodchester Mansion is a remarkable unfinished Victorian Gothic masterpiece set in the Gloucestershire countryside. Built in the 19th century by the wealthy Leigh family, this architecturally significant mansion offers visitors a unique glimpse into Victorian craftsmanship, design ambitions, and social history. The mansion features intricate stone carvings, including distinctive gargoyles and chapel bosses that showcase exceptional artistry. Families visiting Woodchester Mansion can enjoy guided tours of the building's distinctive rooms and architectural features, with special content designed for children. The estate is also home to one of the world's longest-running bat studies, allowing visitors to learn about the bat colonies that inhabit the mansion. The venue offers admission on open days, private tour options, and educational programs suitable for schools and groups. The mansion provides catering facilities for visitors and a gift shop. Educational experiences include craft skills training and tertiary education opportunities. Whether interested in Victorian history, architecture, natural heritage, or simply exploring a unique historic property, Woodchester Mansion offers an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: Closed
Friday: 11:00 – 17:00
Saturday: 11:00 – 17:00
Sunday: 11:00 – 17:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Catering

Catering services available at the venue

Follow:

Google Reviews

4.6(768 reviews)
G
Geoffrey Ashton

Geoffrey Ashton

3 weeks ago

Didn't go in as the entry fee of £13 is just too much for a building still having work done on it. It is in a nice location with lovely walks though.

I
Ian Barnard

Ian Barnard

a month ago

Not the easiest place to find but worth it when you do . It is also a long way from the car park to the house, there is a bus service to and from although the timings did not fit the tours of the house, a bit odd. Anyway we walked on a bright sunny day and it was glorious. The house, never completed but definitely worth a guided tour and the guides know their stuff. Well worth a visit, take your own food though, my only complaint ,food too dear,£4.50 for a sausage roll and that's just an example. Enjoyed the visit and would go again, with a picnic to tour the gardens and woodlands.

P
Peter Burt

Peter Burt

2 months ago

Sorry didn't get as far as the mansion, but the national trust car park and cafe were great. We only visited for a couple of hours while passing, found this place very peaceful, spent some time just sitting and watching gliders soar in the skies around us, while listening to the giggles if the children playing around us. It was really pleasant.

T
The Royal Butler

The Royal Butler

3 months ago

Woodchester Mansion near Stroud is an architectural wonder, unfinished since 1873, revealing bare beams, unplastered walls, and exquisite Gothic carvings up close! Guided tours (11:45am/2:30pm) unveil its history and resident bats on CCTV, perfect for history lovers. Surrounded by National Trust Woodchester Park for woodland walks. A hidden gem worth the drive

P
Phil Kerswell

Phil Kerswell

10 months ago

Wow… must see extraordinary unfinished mansion…. For the best, Make sure you go during the open season, when you can go inside this huge amazing gothic revival house. Well worth doing the free 90min guided tour … but don’t worry, you can self guide too. It’s a huge place, which was part built 1850-70 and then deserted for 100 years. You can visit the part-completed upper floors & see unfinished construction methods, great stonework. If you miss the open days, go see the outside anyway. It’s a lovely walk. A real hidden gem. A few things : Car park is National Trust. House is a local trust charity. Park & outside house free all year round. House open Fri-Sun spring to late October - see website. Loos & small coffee shop only open when house open.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Woodchester Mansion Trust

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Woodchester Mansion Trust

Is Woodchester Mansion Trust free to visit?

Woodchester Mansion Trust is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

Is Woodchester Mansion Trust dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Woodchester Mansion Trust.

Is there parking at Woodchester Mansion Trust?

Woodchester Mansion Trust doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at Woodchester Mansion Trust?

Yes — Catering is on site at Woodchester Mansion Trust. Catering services available at the venue

Is Woodchester Mansion Trust pushchair-friendly?

Woodchester Mansion Trust isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at Woodchester Mansion Trust?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to Woodchester Mansion Trust.

How do I get to Woodchester Mansion Trust by public transport?

Woodchester Mansion Trust is well-served by public transport.
Kiddy Compass