Sitting beautifully in the Dorset countryside, you’ll find the opulent Kingston Lacy. A beautiful Venetian-inspired house complete with an abundance of art, Egyptian artefacts and lavish furniture.
Wander the magnificent rooms and marvel at the elegant surroundings.
As part of the National Trust and as well as the stunning house, you can explore the 8,500 acres of the estate, stunning landscapes, heathland, and gardens, including the ancient Iron Age hill fort Badbury Rings, perfect for a family day out.
Here is a brief history of Kingston Lacy and what to expect during your visit.
Kingston Lacy has been home to the Bankes family for centuries, but its most influential owner was William John Bankes.
He inherited Kingston Lacy in 1834.
He was a traveller who had a keen eye for interiors, luxurious art, marble and furniture. He even had an Egyptian obelisk brought back to the UK, and it now sits proudly within the grounds.
Along with architect Sir Charles Barry, they created the house that stands there today.
Bankes travels inspired a lot of the interior including the extensive collection of artwork that is showcased all around the house.
The intricately painted ceilings and rooms make the house feel like a work of art in itself; walking around, you’ll be amazed at the level of detail and care that has been taken to preserve the work that Bankes had put into the property.
In 1841, Bankes was voluntarily exiled to Venice on account of a second charge of engaging in same-sex relations; during that time, the death penalty was the consequence of being homosexual.
Bankes didn’t get to live in Kingston Lacy again from that time, however, he did send artwork and furnishings back to Dorset and left specific instructions on where it should go in the house until he died in 1855.
Guided tours are available for walking around the house, or you can go at your own pace. Little snippets of information are displayed in the rooms, allowing you to learn about the history as you go.
There are also National Trust volunteers and staff members who are extremely friendly and love to share stories and the history of the building as you explore the rooms.
The gardens, heathland and parkland are available to explore, its a great setting for a picnic or an adventure with little ones.
You may be lucky enough to see the world’s oldest pedigree herd of Red Ruby Devon cattle or the rare breed Portland sheep.
The Japanese garden is a beautiful spot to admire the many different colours, plants and wildlife that are abundant in the area.
The tranquil surroundings and quietness will leave you feeling relaxed and boost your mood instantly.
The Kitchen garden is a pretty area to wander with daffodils filling you with joy during the spring time to pumpkins in the autumn months.
Here, you’ll find a brilliant natural playground (one of two) for children to have fun.
A takeaway kiosk is also located here, perfect for you to enjoy a hot drink and a snack whilst the children have fun in the park.
Activities for children during the school holidays are also available, such as activity packs and scavenger hunts.
There is also a larger cafe available serving a selection of drinks, light bites and sweet treats to enjoy during your visit.
A National Trust gift and second-hand book shop gives you the opportunity to pick up a treat for you or a loved one, grab some local Dorset produce or an interesting book.
Kingston Lacy is a spectacular place to visit, and if you’re a National Trust member, then parking and entry are free, making it a fun-filled day out that won’t break the bank.
There are lots of places for a picnic and plenty to explore. Have fun!
To find out more about Kingston Lacy, visit the National Trust website here.
📍 Kingston Lacy, Wimborne BH21 4EA
