Nestled in the heart of Oxfordshire lies Stonor Park, a magnificent family estate that has been home to the Stonor family for an incredible 850 years. As one of England’s oldest family homes, Stonor Park offers visitors a rich blend of history, natural beauty, and family entertainment across its 250-acre grounds.
The estate welcomes families year-round with its stunning gardens, historic chapel, and stately house filled with centuries of fascinating stories and treasures. Children’s eyes light up at the magical Tumblestone Hollow adventure playground, tucked away in the wild woodland valley – making it a brilliant spot for families looking for both fun and culture.
Just an hour from London near Henley-on-Thames, Stonor Park brings history to life while providing a perfect day out for visitors of all ages. The combination of beautiful Chiltern countryside, eight centuries of English history, and modern family attractions makes this historic house a true gem in Oxfordshire’s crown.
The Stonor family stands among Britain’s oldest noble houses, maintaining continuous ownership of their ancestral home for more than 850 years through faith, dedication and careful stewardship.
Stonor Park‘s legacy began in the 13th century with the construction of the magnificent great hall. The house grew alongside the family’s fortunes, with each generation adding their own architectural touches.
The medieval chapel holds special significance, featuring stunning stained glass windows that showcase the family’s deep Catholic faith. This devotion helped shape both the house and its inhabitants through centuries of religious turmoil.
Lady Camoys and her family still call Stonor Park home today, making it one of the rare country houses that remains a true family residence rather than a museum.
The Stonors’ remarkable archive contains historic maps and documents dating back to 1150, telling tales of service to the Crown and steadfast commitment to their beliefs.
During the Reformation, the family risked everything to protect Catholic priests, creating hidden spaces within the house walls. Their courage and conviction helped preserve important religious manuscripts and artefacts.
The family’s careful management preserved Stonor through wars, political upheavals, and changing times. They adapted while maintaining their traditions and values.
Today’s Stonor family balances preserving their heritage with sharing their home’s rich history, welcoming visitors to experience eight centuries of English history under one roof.
The historic gardens at Stonor Park span 250 acres of pristine Oxfordshire countryside, offering spectacular views across the rolling landscape. The estate features several distinct garden areas that showcase both formal and natural beauty.
A network of winding paths leads visitors through the varied landscape of Stonor Park. The gardens nestle perfectly into the natural valley setting, creating picture-perfect views from every angle.
The footpath opposite the house leads to a magnificent viewpoint where visitors can see how Stonor fits seamlessly into the Oxfordshire countryside. This spot inspired the former National Trust Chairman Lord Gibson to declare it “possibly the most beautiful setting for any house in England.”
The parkland supports a thriving population of fallow deer who roam freely across the grounds. These graceful creatures add to the magical atmosphere of the estate.
The formal Italianate garden brings Mediterranean charm to the English countryside. Carefully trimmed topiary and geometric flower beds create an elegant atmosphere.
Stone terraces provide the perfect spots to pause and take in the surrounding beauty. The garden’s design makes clever use of different levels, with steps and pathways leading visitors through the space.
Seasonal flowers bring bursts of colour throughout the year, while evergreen plantings maintain structure during winter months.
The kitchen garden continues its centuries-old tradition of growing fresh produce and herbs. Heritage varieties of fruits and vegetables flourish in this sheltered space.
The arboretum features an impressive collection of native and exotic trees. Many specimens have grown here for hundreds of years, creating a mature woodland environment.
Peaceful walking paths wind through the arboretum, letting visitors get up close to these magnificent trees. Each season brings different highlights, from spring blossoms to autumn colours.
Stonor Park houses remarkable artistic and religious treasures gathered across eight centuries of family stewardship. The collections tell stories of faith, art, and culture through carefully preserved items.
The manor displays an impressive collection of family portraits that span generations of the Stonor family. These paintings provide fascinating glimpses into historical fashion and social customs.
Precious ceramics and antique furniture complement the artwork throughout the house. Many pieces date back to medieval times, showing the family’s eye for craftsmanship and beauty.
The Georgian façade conceals earlier architectural features, creating an interesting blend of styles. Behind the elegant windows, visitors can spot Tudor and medieval elements that reveal the home’s evolution.
The 13th-century chapel stands as one of Stonor’s most precious treasures. It remained a place of Catholic worship even during times when the practice was forbidden in England.
The chapel holds special significance as a refuge for St Edmund Campion in 1581. He printed Catholic texts here while hiding from persecution.
Beautiful stained glass windows and original stone carvings adorn the chapel walls. The space continues to serve as an active place of worship today.
The library contains rare books and manuscripts collected across centuries. Many volumes showcase beautiful illuminated texts and historical bindings.
Family documents provide insights into English Catholic history and local heritage. Letters, diaries, and estate records paint a vivid picture of life at Stonor through different eras.
The archives hold important papers about the estate’s management and the family’s role in British history. These materials help scholars study Catholic recusant history in England.
Stonor Park offers guests a warm welcome with comfortable amenities, tasty food options, and flexible ticket choices to suit different needs.
Visitors can choose from several ticket types to explore this historic estate. Daily admission tickets grant access to the gardens and grounds.
The Tumblestone Hollow membership provides excellent value for families who plan to visit often throughout the year.
Members enjoy unlimited entry to the adventure playground and special discounts on events and experiences.
The Chilterns Pit Stop Cafe welcomes guests with a cosy atmosphere and lovely views of the grounds.
The cafe serves Illy coffee, hot chocolate, and a selection of teas. Guests can enjoy cold drinks including beer, cider, and wine.
Light meals and snacks are available to keep energy levels up during the visit. On chilly days, warming soups make a perfect lunch choice.
The gift shop stocks locally-made crafts and souvenirs to remember your visit.
The estate produces its own Stonor honey from hives within the grounds. This golden treat captures the essence of the park’s wildflowers.
Fresh pizzas make a popular choice for hungry families exploring the estate.
The cafe’s menu changes with the seasons, using local ingredients when possible.
Light snacks and ice creams provide perfect refreshments during summer walks through the gardens.
Stonor Park offers exciting activities and events for families throughout the year, from thrilling adventure playgrounds to seasonal craft shows.
Children can explore the magical world of Tumblestone Hollow, a unique adventure playground designed for ages 4-12. This enchanting space features rope bridges, climbing towers, and secret tunnels.
The Rumble Hut serves tasty snacks and drinks while parents watch their little ones play. Picnic areas provide perfect spots for family lunches surrounded by nature.
During school holidays, special themed events bring extra magic to Tumblestone Hollow. The Easter Trail transforms the playground into an exciting treasure hunt with prizes.
The annual Henley Country Craft Show draws families to Stonor Park each August Bank Holiday weekend. Children enjoy traditional fairground rides while parents browse handmade crafts and artisan goods.
Adventure Days offer chances to spot the resident deer herd and join guided nature walks. These special events include craft demonstrations and local food stalls.
Weekend visits allow families to tour the 12th-century house and historic chapel between 1:30 pm and 5 pm. The gift shop stocks toys and treats that children love.
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