Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire was built at the end of the 19th century (1874-89) by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild in the style of a French 16th century château.  Baron Ferdinand was an inspired collector and the house was designed to accommodate his fine collection of French 18th century furniture, Sèvres porcelain, English portraits and other exceptional examples of the decorative arts, and to entertain the fashionable world.   When he died in 1898 he left Waddesdon to his sister, Miss Alice. Upon her death the house passed to James de Rothschild, a cousin from the French side of the family.  In order to ensure its future in perpetuity, Waddesdon was bequeathed to the National Trust by James de Rothschild in 1957, although his widow, Dorothy, continued to manage the house until her death in 1988. The Rothschild family continues to maintain an active interest in the running of Waddesdon through a family charitable trust under the chairmanship of Lord Rothschild.

The Bachelors’ Wing is part of the East Wing of the House and noticeably different in style.  It was used exclusively by Baron Ferdinand’s male friends when visiting without their wives, thus the name.

One of the finest Victorian gardens in Britain can be found at Waddesdon with its parterre, seasonal displays, colourful shrubs and statuary, and the gardens are a peaceful and pleasant place to walk in all seasons.

At the heart of the gardens is the Aviary, stocked with species that were once part of Baron Ferdinand’s collection.  The Aviary at Waddesdon is also known for breeding endangered species.

There are two licensed restaurants at Waddesdon both serving the highest quality, fresh food.    The Manor Restaurant serves breakfasts and snacks, lunch and afternoon teas, whereas the Stables Restaurant offers a plâts du jour, snacks and sandwiches throughout the day.   The Summerhouse and Coffee Bar are handy places too for a quick snack or drink, open weather permitting.

The Shops at Waddesdon should also be visited.  The Gift Shop and Stables Shop have postcards and greeting cards, exclusive gifts and souvenirs, many products inspired by the Collection at Waddesdon and Waddesdon’s own range of food, textiles and stationery.  The Wine Shop and Wine Warehouse sell one of the most comprehensive ranges of Rothschild wine in the world.  With wines starting from under £5.00 up to several hundred the range caters for all pockets and occasions.

Waddesdon also provides a unique setting for corporate and private entertaining, in The Dairy, situated on the Waddesdon Estate beside a lake, it is only open for private events; at The Stables, The Manor Restaurant and The Wine Cellars.   It makes an ideal venue for meetings, conferences, wine tastings, anniversary and Christmas parties, lunches and dinners.

With so much to offer Waddesdon makes a great day out for everyone!