Waddesdon Manor
A French-style chateau built in the 19th century by the Rothschild family, with 18th-century French furniture, Sèvres porcelain and paintings, plus exquisite gardens and an aviary.
Waddesdon Manor was built between 1874 and 1889 for Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild. Its exterior is modelled on the châteaux of France's Loire Valley, and it is now managed by the National Trust. Inside, the house displays the Rothschild family's collection, including 18th-century French furniture, Sèvres porcelain, and paintings by Gainsborough and Reynolds. The gardens feature Victorian flower beds and a rococo-style aviary, and the cellar holds many wines from Rothschild estates. Waddesdon lies about 40 km from Oxford, roughly a 50-minute drive. Entry is by timed slot, so book in advance on the official website.
Opening hours
Approx. March–December 10:00–17:00; the house is often closed Mondays and Tuesdays (check official website)
Nearby sights
- Bicester Village
- Headington Shark
- Henley-on-Thames
- Punting on the River Cherwell
- Magdalen College, Oxford
- University of Oxford Botanic Garden
- University Parks
- New College, Oxford