Althorp

Beyond the public face seen by the tens of thousands of people that visit Althorp each year, the Althorp Estate extends much further, covering 14,000 acres of beautiful countryside in Northamptonshire, Warwickshire and Norfolk. This Estate encompasses cottages, farms, woodlands and villages, which combine to give a rich mix of landscapes, habitats and activities.

Start with a relaxing walk down a tree lined avenue to the house, enjoy the remodelled gardens and perhaps take the opportunity to reflect in the peaceful surroundings of the poignant Round Oval. Explore nineteen rooms in the House, including some of the Spencer Family's private apartments. Discover magnificent interiors and one of Europe's finest private collections of furniture, paintings and photographs and ceramics - the result of one family's uninterrupted occupation for over 500 years. Picnic in glorious surroundings in the grounds or enjoy excellent food and drink at reasonable prices in Althorp's Café. Finally, browse through the carefully chosen mementoes in the Althorp Visitor Shop.

Althorp’s architectural history will be revealed this year as the House's exterior is restored. View information displays about this impressive project and the fascinating history of a building which has housed 19 generations of the Spencer Family.

Trees are a vital part of the Estate's character, with the forestry team being responsible for the care of around 1,000 acres of woodland, which have been carefully managed by the Spencer family over the centuries. Historic Homes, Medieval Castles, Historic Exhibitions Althorp Park is noted for its stunning veteran trees, mainly Oak, some of which are more than 400 years old. To protect this heritage we have prepared a 20 year Forest Plan to clarify our long-term vision and to ensure continuity of management. 

VISITORS INFORMATION:

Opening Times:

 Open to the public every day from 1st July to 30th August. 

Opening times for 2010 are 11:00am to 5:00pm, Last entry at 4:00pm.

Approximate Driving Time

York - 2.5 hours

Stratford-Upon-Avon - 1 hour

Cambridge - 1 hour

Oxford - 1 hour

London - 1.5 hours

Birmingham - 40 mins

By Bus:

National Express Coaches run a service to Northampton Bus Station from many locations throughout the UK.

By Train:

The National Rail service provides trains to Northampton Train Station from throughout the UK. A regular service is offered from London Euston to Northampton and Birmingham International to Northampton. Please see www.nationalrail.co.uk for more details. Upon arrival at Northampton Train Station visitors can either tender a taxi to Althorp for the cost of around £15 - £20.00 or alternatively there is a public bus service run by Stage Coach. Bus service number 96 runs daily between Monday and Friday, the bus can be met from the main road outside the Train Station. Please ask the driver to be dropped off at Althorp. The public bus times are 10.50, 12.50 and 14.50. Please announce your arrival at Althorp using the interactive gate panel, the estate mini-bus will then collect you from the entrance gate.

By Bicycle:

Althorp is surrounded by beautiful countryside well suited to cycling. Althorp welcomes visitors who choose to travel by bicycle, however, we advise visitors to check with the relevant local councils for safe cycle networks before starting your journey. Please be advised bicycles can be left in the visitor car park at the owners risk, Althorp cannot accept any responsibility for the security of bicycles left in the car park. Please note no direct facility is provided for bike locks, however, some fencing is suitable for this purpose.