Witley Court & Gardens, one of the most remarkable and atmospheric ruins in Worcestershire.
Address: Worcester Road, Great Witley, Worcestershire, WR6 6JT.
There’s something magical about Witley Court & Gardens. Perhaps it is the contrast of decay and beauty, decline and grandeur. Tucked away in the rolling countryside of Worcestershire, it is one of the most remarkable and atmospheric ruins in England.
When did the story of Witley Court begin? The Russell family built an impressive house in Great Witley in about 1630. Two families who had both made their fortunes from iron and coal in the West Midlands later owned the estate. The Foley family held it from 1658 to 1838, followed by the Ward family, Earls of Dudley, from 1838 to 1920.
Originally, the house built by the Russell family was U-shaped and made of from red brick. Later, the property was substantially extended and developed by the Foley family, and the church was constructed. In the 19th century, Witley Court was completely transformed into an extravagant Italianate palace. William Ward commissioned the architect Samuel Daukes, who preserved the original structure of the house, cladding the existing red brickwork with elegant Bath stone. The remodelled house was designed to impress!
In 1920, the Ward family sold the estate to a local carpet manufacturer, Sir Herbert Smith. He lived there in a relatively modest style until the house suffered a devastating fire in 1937. The prospect of restoring the house was more than Sir Herbert could bear, and so it was never undertaken. Sir Herbert moved away and died in 1943.
In 1972, Witley was taken into government care to protect it from further damage. The place was preserved as an impressive ruin. In 1984, responsibility for Witley Court passed to the newly formed English Heritage. During the 1990s, English Heritage carried out major restoration work on the formal gardens, and the spectacular Perseus and Andromeda fountain—one of the grandest in Europe—was brought back into working order in 2002.
Today, Witley Court is far from desolate. Though a ruin, it remains magnificent and still captivates the hearts of all who wander through, whispering echoes of its former glory. Whenever you visit the place, be sure to bring a camera—the views through crumbling arches and across the gardens are picture-perfect. If your dog likes to pose, Witley’s stunning scenery is paw-fect for a royal-looking photo.
Dogs at Witley Court & Gardens
Witley Court offers a delightful day out for history lovers, dogs and their owners. Dogs on leads are warmly welcomed across the entire estate, including the vast gardens and woodland trails. There’s plenty of space to sniff and explore, from shady paths beneath ancient trees to sunny lawns in front of the fountain. Dogs are also allowed at the neighbouring Church of St Michael and All Angels, what is quite unusual. There is even a charming little café nearby with outdoor seating where your pup can join you for a well-earned rest.
Opening times
10:00 – 17:00, every day.
Admission fee
£10.40 for adults, £6.30 for children (if you book online in advance),
£12.70 for adults, £7.70 for children (on the day tickets),
or free for English Heritage members.
Parking
Ample parking is free for visitors.
Website
www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/witley-court-and-gardens
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