Kingston Lacy

Large country estate with an elegant manor house at its heart, set amongst beautifully kept gardens leading out into extensive parkland and heathland surroundings. The house, inspired by a Venetian palace, features an incredibly ornate interior, its large rooms characterised by finely decorated ceilings, grand fireplaces and antique furnishings. It's a popular attraction so be sure to request timed house tickets on arrival. The gardens were looking their best when we visited in August, with impressive floral borders around the house, a neat Parterre, kitchen garden and beautiful Japanese garden with colourful maple trees. If you've got a full day, it's worth exploring the wider estate, including the iron age earthworks of Badbury Rings, the historic watermill White Mill, and Holt Heath, one of Dorset's largest heathland areas at its best in late summer. Onsite facilities include ample parking, a large café, gift shop, pre-owned bookshop and toilets. Adult tickets were £23.00 when we visited, reflective of the estate's large size and variety.

Fab day trip with a friend. Our babies also had a great time. Enjoyed a great leisurely walk in the picturesque gardens, then explored the house, and had some cake in the cafe afterwards. The new changing facilities and quiet room are great, super comfortable.

Spectacular property packed with paintings including a self-portrait of Rembrant, and huge grounds and gardens, including an exquisite Japanese tea garden. Each room of the mansion had a volunteer filled with knowledge about the place, too. Leaves you wondering what the family's ransacked Corfe Castle was like back in the 1600s. Oh yes: Pigs. Be sure to enjoy the grunting of the free range pigs next to the car park!

Famous historic National Trust place, with large family house and very large gardens. The house had lots of history with very knowledgeable staff/volunteers - talk to them as they have lots of great information. The place is all about the Bankes family, which has a colourful past. The place is also part of a 16,000 acres (!) estate that includes Corfe Castle - a "must visit" to complete the family history of the Bankes early ancestors. Leave time to visit the Japanese garden - we were there in early (warm) November and the colours were stunning.

Xmas at Kingston Lacey. The house was beautifully decorated amongst the wonderful art. We'd been several times 10 years ago but not visited the house. Glad we did this time now we live in Dorset. Fabulous art collection enhanced by the enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteers. Nice easy to walk gardens. Very good range of lunches.

Magnificent historic mansion. Set in extensive grounds and formal gardens. Renoun for notable artwork, the interiors are special too, with Spanish leather wall coverings and simulated tented upper bedrooms for gentlemen guests. The room guides are a delight to talk to, so knowledgeable and personable. They made my visit. Though it is a shame that the rooms have to be so dark, it was hard to appreciate the artworks. The room guides have torches and will illuminated notable paintings when asked. So do talk to them. Don't miss the Japanese gardens, which we felt were the star garden of the formal gardens.

Lovely grounds and house with good facilities, although there are currently building works going on that add some minor inconvenience. Entrance is a little pricey but worth it if one gets entry to the house, which is not guaranteed. The Stables café is excellent and very good value for money, and there is a well stocked shop with local produce.

A truly fantastic place, full of wonders both inside and out. The interior features centuries-old furnishings in stunning condition—absolutely magical. The grounds are vast and beautifully maintained. You can spend hours walking or relaxing in the park. There is plenty of parking, and the on-site café welcomes everyone with a great selection."