Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Wiltshire, just a short distance from Salisbury, lies the magnificent Wilton House. For over 450 years, this grand Palladian mansion has been the ancestral home of the Earls of Pembroke, and its opulent interiors and stunning grounds have played host to some of the most celebrated figures in British history.

The house's origins can be traced back to the dissolution of the monasteries in the 16th century. When Wilton Abbey was granted to Sir William Herbert, 1st Earl of Pembroke, he set about transforming the medieval buildings into a grand Renaissance palace. Over the centuries, the house has been extensively remodelled and extended, with each successive Earl adding their own unique touch.

Today, Wilton House is a treasure trove of art and architecture. The state rooms are adorned with exquisite paintings, tapestries, and furniture, while the gardens are a masterpiece of landscaping design. Visitors can wander through the opulent Double Cube Room, marvel at the intricate carvings in the Long Gallery, and stroll through the serene Italian Garden.

In addition to its historical significance, Wilton House is also known for its literary connections. Sir Philip Sidney, one of the most celebrated poets of the Elizabethan era, was born at Wilton, and his sister, Mary Sidney Herbert, Countess of Pembroke, was a renowned patron of the arts. The house is also said to have been the setting for the first performance of Shakespeare's play 'As You Like It'.

Wilton House is a truly remarkable place, and a visit is sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you are interested in history, art, or simply enjoy exploring beautiful places, Wilton House is sure to have something to offer.

Address

Wilton House, Wilton, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP2 0BJ

Directions from Salisbury

By car: Follow the A36 westbound from Salisbury. Follow A36/Wilton Road for 2.8 miles. Then turn left in to Minster Street to your destination.
By bus: Red 3 and Red 8 all run from Salisbury town centre and Salisbury railway station to Wilton. Most buses stop right outside Wilton House. Buses run every 10-15 minutes to Wilton throughout the day.

Useful LInks

Wilton House (Opens in new window) The official online portal for Wilton House provides a wide range of information for tourists, local residents, and business partners. Key information available on the site includes:

Visitor Information

Opening Times & Seasonal Dates
Admission Prices
Access & Facilities
Photography & Rules

History & Collections

The House:
Art & Furniture
State Rooms

The Estate & Lettings

Property Lettings
Land Management
Filming & Events

Events & Memberships

Special Events
Memberships

Practical Tools

Directions
Enquiry Forms

Facebook: Wilton House (Opens in new window) Provides real-time updates on seasonal openings, event reminders for activities like the "Wilton Wake Up" car meets, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the estate's use as a filming location. It also serves as a community platform for visitor reviews, garden highlights, and practical announcements regarding charity partnerships and estate operations.