National Trust - Coughton Court
Sightseeing attraction | Alcester | England | United Kingdom
Historically significant sites in Warwickshire
The National Trust - Coughton Court in Alcester, England, is an impressive Tudor mansion that is considered one of the most historically significant attractions in Warwickshire. It is located amidst picturesque countryside and has been the home of the Throckmorton family for over 600 years, who still reside there today. The estate, managed by the National Trust, consists of a magnificent manor house and 25 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens maintained by the family. Coughton Court is not only an architectural gem, but also a place that played a central role in some of the most dramatic episodes in British history, including the Gunpowder Plot of 1605.
Tudor castle in Alcester England
The history of the estate dates back to 1409 when the Throckmortons acquired the land through marriage. The current manor house was mostly built in the early 16th century by Sir George Throckmorton, with the distinctive gatehouse, the oldest surviving element, constructed after 1536 using stones from the dissolved monasteries of Bordesley and Evesham. This gatehouse impresses with its hexagonal towers and bay windows in the English Renaissance style, flanked by later wings in the Strawberry Hill Gothic style, giving the building a romantic touch. Inside, the rooms reflect the tumultuous history, with Gothic plasterwork and a fan-vaulted hall showcasing the Tudor style impressively.
Visiting the gardens of Coughton Court
Coughton Court is inseparably linked to the Gunpowder Plot, a failed assassination attempt on King James I. While the Throckmortons, an influential Catholic family, were not directly involved in the planning, the estate played an important role as a refuge for some of the conspirators after the failed attack. The family was known for their Catholic faith, which was heavily persecuted during the time of the Reformation under Elizabeth I. A priest hole in the tower room, likely built by the famous craftsman Nicholas Owen, bears witness to this dangerous period when Catholic priests sought secret refuge. This connection to history is vividly conveyed in the house through exhibitions and collections, including portraits, documents, and Catholic treasures.
Gunpowder Plot and Coughton Court
The gardens of Coughton Court are another highlight and are considered one of the most beautiful garden landscapes in England. They have been designed over decades by Clare McLaren-Throckmorton and her daughter, garden designer Christina Williams. Particularly noteworthy is the walled garden, opened in 1996 by renowned garden expert Alan Titchmarsh. It is filled with a variety of plants, including roses, buddlejas, and clematis, providing a colorful backdrop in the summer. Other garden areas include a knot garden, an orchard, a marsh and vegetable garden, as well as a picturesque Riverside and Lakeside Walk running alongside an ancient bluebell wood and the River Arrow. This diversity makes the gardens a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
Experiencing the restoration of Coughton Court
The estate offers numerous experiences for visitors. Several rooms in the house can be explored, furnished with furniture, paintings, and personal items of the family, giving a sense that Coughton Court is still a living home. An interactive exhibition in the former coach house sheds light on the ongoing "Through the Roof" project, an extensive restoration of the roof, offering insights into the craftsmanship and historical aspects of the estate. For families, there is plenty to discover: children can participate in activities such as building bat models or playfully reenact the history of the Gunpowder Plot. Two churches of different denominations, St. Peter's Church and the Catholic Church of St. Peter, St. Paul and St. Elizabeth, complement the offerings and invite visitors to explore.
For relaxation, there is a café serving hot and cold food as well as local ice cream, and a small shop offering gifts and garden items. An antiquarian bookstore in the stable area also provides a selection of used books. The extensive parklands are perfect for walks, where wildlife such as herons and otters can be observed. Access to the estate is mostly wheelchair friendly, with wheelchairs available for loan and paths suitable for families with strollers.
Despite its historical charm, Coughton Court remains a vibrant place as the Throckmorton family continues to play an active role. From 2026, the family will fully resume the management of the estate, after the National Trust temporarily took over to support restoration work. This handover reflects the family's desire to further promote the unique personality of the place and introduce new events.
