National Trust - Stowe

The magnificent arch at Stowe stands high on an incline, it's very impressive driving straight towards it. The Corinthian Arch is very similar in design to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

However the road turns right, giving a glimpse of Stow House through the arch, and leads to the National Trust car park. 

Stowe Gardens is huge with meandering paths, lakes, waterfalls, bridges and of course many temples and structures. Although we walked 4 miles we still did not cover all the grounds which, as this National Trust map shows, are extensive.

Even on a dull rainy day these grounds in central England were amazing. So many beautiful views, the structures were all purposefully built with the surrounds landscapes to present them at their best. 

Palladian Bridge

Pebble Alcove

Cascade and Artificial Ruins

Rotunda

Nine Muses

Temple of Ancient Virtue

Temple of British Worthies

Although in the same grounds Stowe House is not a National Trust property, in fact this Grade I listed building is an independent school and is owned by the Stowe House Preservation Trust. 

The house's history is quite complex with the original owners being farmers, long before the magnificent house we now see was built. Over hundreds of years the various family members bettered themselves by buying titles and ensuring they were mixing with the right circles. 

In the 1800s the debt was so high all the families possessions were sold by auction, held on the grand steps at the front of the house. The house was in danger of being dismantled but was saved and preserved so today we can appreciate the grandness of this beautiful property. It is a working school but tours can be taken through some of the magnificent rooms.

The grounds and the house are both stunning and certainly worth visiting although maybe in the summer taking a picnic to enjoy in these glorious gardens.