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Basildon Park

A honey-stone Georgian Palladian mansion on the Thames — Netherfield in Pride & Prejudice (2005) and a Downton filming location.

Where
Pangbourne
Tickets
$18 adult · Free for National Trust members
Palladian south front of Basildon Park with central portico Palladian south front of Basildon Park with central portico

What to expect at Basildon Park

Built between 1776 and 1783 for Sir Francis Sykes, a nabob returning from India, Basildon Park was designed by John Carr of York and is one of the most complete Palladian houses in England. Left derelict after WWII army occupation, it was rescued by Lord and Lady Iliffe in the 1950s who furnished it with strong 18th-century collections. The National Trust took over in 1978. Highlights include the Octagon Drawing Room, the Sutherland collection of paintings, and delicate stucco ceilings.

Only seven miles west of central Reading, Basildon is the easiest National Trust day out from the town — a $22 taxi from Reading Station or a 4-minute train to Pangbourne then a taxi. If you’re staying in Pangbourne or Sonning you’re basically next door. NT members get in free; non-members should combine with a Thames Path walk from Pangbourne for a proper half-day. The parkland alone is worth the trip in autumn.

Plan your visit Tickets$18 adult · Free for National Trust members WherePangbourne Opening hours Wed-Sun 10:00-17:00 (Mar-Oct) Wed-Sun 10:00-16:00 (Nov-Feb) Closed Mon and Tue except Bank Holidays Hotels near Basildon Park

Questions about Basildon Park

How much is Basildon Park?

$18 adult, $9 child, $45 family. Free for National Trust members. Grounds-only ticket $10.

Any free entry days?

First weekend of March is free for non-members as part of NT's opening weekend; otherwise membership is the only route to free entry.

How long should I spend?

3-4 hours: 90 minutes in the house, 90 minutes in the grounds, plus tearoom stop.

What days are closed?

Closed Monday and Tuesday year-round (except Bank Holidays), and 24-26 December.

Do I need to book?

No booking needed midweek. Weekends in July and August, timed slots can be reserved free via the National Trust website.

Nearest station from Reading?

Pangbourne, 4 minutes by train from Reading, then a 10-minute taxi (~$12). Or drive directly in 20 minutes via the A329.

Where to stay

Hotels near Basildon Park

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