A day out at Basildon Park

A day out at Basildon Park – National Trust adventures near Pangbourne

Looking for a day out near Pangbourne that blends stately homes, sweeping views and a dash of Bridgerton magic? Just five minutes from The Elephant Hotel, the National Trust’s Basildon Park ticks all the boxes. 

This 18th-century Palladian mansion is set within 400 acres of parkland and boasts a rich and varied history. Originally created as a pleasure ground in the 1800s, it experienced periods of decadence and decline, and even served as a convalescent home, training centre and prisoner of war camp during the First and Second World Wars. The estate was rescued in the 1950s by Lord and Lady Iliffe, who continued to restore the property and the grounds up until the National Trust took ownership.

In more recent times, the Bath-stone, Italian-inspired architecture and romantic gardens have featured in a number of popular films and TV series, including the 2005 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice as Netherfield, home of Mr Bingley, and Netflix’s Bridgerton.

Into history, gardens, or dog-friendly days out? Basildon Park is one of the top National Trust spots in Berkshire – and it’s just around the corner from The Elephant Hotel. There are many walks to enjoy, for all ages and abilities, and a visit to this 18th-century house and estate offers day trippers a chance to soak up intriguing history, enjoy beautiful horticulture and breathtaking views.

What can you see and do at Basildon Park?

Explore the history of the house

Central to Basildon Park is the 18th century Palladian-style mansion. This historic house is filled with architectural treasures including an unusual octagon-shaped drawing room, a neoclassical hall and a garden room. Opulent in design, the interiors include paintings by the Old Masters, traditional hand-printed wallpaper and murals inspired by the ruined city of Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

Take in the views in the park

With 400-acres and four marked walking routes, it’s easy to spend a whole day exploring Basildon Park. Whether you decide to take on a 20-minute stroll or a two-hour hike, you can enjoy incredible views of the house and the wider Berkshire countryside. The woodland provides interest each season - from bluebells in the spring to autumn fungi. And if you love history, remnants of Nissen huts from the Second World War can be found in the main park. 

Wander through the formal gardens

The landscaped gardens were designed by JB Papworth in 1839 with elements added by Lady Iliffe in the 1950s. Highlights include an Italianate terrace, historic trees and a stunning rose garden, planted with old roses, peonies and spring bulbs. Take a turn around the gardens to discover how these historic designs have been restored over time.

Treat yourself in the gift shop and tearoom

A visit to any National Trust property isn’t complete without some cake, a coffee and a trip to the gift shop. Basildon Park also has a plant shop stocked with an ever-changing selection of horticultural delights, depending on the season. Make sure you leave time for a visit before you leave.

Best time of year to visit

Basildon Park has year-round appeal but each season brings something unique.

Spring

In spring, the estate sees a flush of new growth with vibrant green shoots and carpets of  bluebells, while in the rose garden, the first buds begin to open.

Summer

The rose garden is in full swing, and the selection of old roses and peonies enchant visitors with their stunning fragrance. A joyful display of yellow buttercups covers the parkland, and the woodland areas provide a cool and tranquil escape from the heat of the sun.

Autumn

The trees in the park become the main attraction by putting on a fiery display of colours and textures. Fungi appear in the woods, and eagle-eyed visitors can expect to spot a number of species from Jelly Ear clusters to the fairytale fly agaric.

Winter

During the colder months, the estate boasts incredible views across the Berkshire landscape and becomes a winter wonderland in frost or snow. 

Pair your day out to Basildon Park with a visit to the Elephant Hotel

After a day of wandering through parkland and soaking up Georgian grandeur, come back to the Elephant Hotel for a gin and tonic in the garden, a juicy steak in our Herd Restaurant, or a long soak in a roll-top tub. Staying over? Our boutique rooms are made for it. The Elephant Hotel is conveniently close to the Park, making it a great stopover for visitors looking to extend their stay in Pangbourne. The hotel has a well-stocked bar serving local beers, wine and cocktails, and if the weather is kind, you can enjoy your drinks al-fresco in our secluded gardens. We serve traditional Afternoon Teas, too. Simply give us 48 hours’ notice and you can end your day of walking with a tower of sweet and savoury treats.

Good to know

How far is Basildon Park from the Elephant Hotel?

Basildon Park is only a five-minute drive from the Elephant Hotel, making it the perfect place for a day trip. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple or have children or a dog in tow, this historic estate has a lot to offer visitors of all ages. 

What facilities are available?

During your visit to Basildon Park, you can pause and refresh in the National Trust tearoom, buy a gift in the shop or pick up a good read in the second-hand bookshop. Visit the plant shop to take a piece of the park home with you. There’s also a car park, cycle park and toilets.

Is Basildon Park family friendly?

Absolutely. It often opens new interactive trails during the school holidays to keep children entertained, and the Wild Play Trail and Ball Park offer family fun all year round. Although the gardens are accessible for buggies, the ground can be uneven. 

Can you visit Basildon Park with your dog?

Yes! The National Trust has a pawprint rating system to help pup-parents know how dog-friendly each of their venues are. Basildon Park has been rated two pawprints, which means dogs are welcome but they can’t go into the mansion house, and you must keep your dog on a lead when walking them through the park.

If you’re looking for more things to do near the Elephant Hotel, visit our Explore page. Our team have shared their favourite days out near Pangbourne and inspiration for adventuring further afield, as well as hidden gems only the locals know about.

The Elephant Hotel

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Pangbourne
Berkshire
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0118 984 2244

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