7 Stunning National Trust and Stately Homes to Visit in the Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon & Warwick
Staying at Mount Pleasant Barns puts you right in the heart of some of the most beautiful countryside in Warwickshire and the Cotswolds, surrounded by history, art, and grand English architecture. Whether you’re drawn to elegant gardens, sweeping parklands, or centuries-old country estates, this corner of England is filled with places that tell the stories of those who once called them home.
Here’s our guide to some of the most spectacular National Trust properties and stately homes — all just a short drive from Mount Pleasant Barns.
Blenheim Palace, Woodstock
Distance: Around 45 minutes
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No visit to the Cotswolds is complete without experiencing the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Britain’s most iconic stately homes. Built in the early 18th century and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, Blenheim is an architectural masterpiece surrounded by over 2,000 acres of parkland designed by Capability Brown.
Inside, explore the magnificent State Rooms, adorned with fine tapestries, portraits, and ornate ceilings. Outside, stroll through formal gardens, tranquil lakes, and winding woodland trails that showcase the best of the English landscape.
Throughout the year, Blenheim hosts a range of events — from Christmas light trails and garden shows to open-air concerts and food festivals — making it a year-round attraction for visitors of all ages.
Tip: Allow a full day to explore Blenheim Palace and its grounds — and don’t miss the tearoom for a quintessentially British afternoon tea with a view.
Kiftsgate Court Gardens, near Chipping Campden
Distance: Around 20 minutes
Family-owned and lovingly maintained for three generations, Kiftsgate Court Gardens is a hidden gem that rivals any in the country. Famous for its dramatic hillside views and the legendary Kiftsgate rose, it’s a garden of colour, scent, and romance.
Stroll through terraces overflowing with blooms, enjoy tea on the lawn, and soak in the timeless elegance that defines this part of the Cotswolds.
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Hidcote Manor Garden (National Trust), near Chipping Campden
Distance: Around 20 minutes from Mount Pleasant Barns
One of the Cotswolds’ most famous gardens, Hidcote Manor Garden is a masterpiece of design and tranquillity. Its series of “garden rooms” are filled with vibrant borders, rare plants, and charming pathways.
Wander through herbaceous borders, discover secret courtyards, and enjoy breathtaking views across the rolling Cotswold hills.
Tip: Combine your visit with nearby Kiftsgate Court Gardens, just across the lane, for a perfect day out among some of England’s finest gardens.
Upton House and Gardens (National Trust), near Edgehill
Distance: Around 15 minutes from Mount Pleasant Barns
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This elegant 1930s country house was transformed by art collector Lord Bearsted into a treasure trove of paintings, tapestries, and fine furniture. Upton House offers a glimpse into the glamour of the interwar years, with a world-class art collection featuring works by Canaletto, El Greco, and Bosch.
Outside, the terraced gardens spill down towards a serene mirror pool — a photographer’s dream.
Don’t miss: The house’s “Made to Measure Home” exhibition, exploring life above and below stairs in the 1930s.
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Compton Verney Art Gallery & Park
Distance: Around 10 minutes from Mount Pleasant Barns
For art and architecture lovers, Compton Verney is a must. This stunning Georgian mansion has been reimagined as a leading art gallery, housing six permanent collections and major seasonal exhibitions — from British portraits to contemporary installations.
Surrounded by 120 acres of landscaped parkland designed by Capability Brown, it’s perfect for combining culture with countryside.
Tip: Enjoy lunch or coffee in the award-winning café overlooking the lake.
Charlecote Park (National Trust), near Stratford-upon-Avon
Distance: Around 10 minutes from Mount Pleasant Barns
Set on the banks of the River Avon, Charlecote Park is a magnificent Tudor estate that feels frozen in time. Wander through beautifully preserved rooms, explore the walled gardens, and spot the roaming fallow deer that have grazed here for centuries.
This red-brick Elizabethan mansion was once visited by Queen Elizabeth I — and is said to be where a young William Shakespeare was caught poaching!
Perfect for: A day of scenic walks, riverside picnics, and a touch of Shakespearean history near Stratford-upon-Avon.
Coughton Court (National Trust), near Alcester
Distance: Around 25 minutes from Mount Pleasant Barns
Home to the Throckmorton family for over 600 years, Coughton Court is steeped in history and intrigue — most famously linked to the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. Inside, explore portraits, relics, and fascinating Catholic history, while outside, the gardens are a true delight with tranquil pools and colourful herbaceous borders.
The courtyard café and shop make this a relaxing spot for a leisurely afternoon.
Plan Your Stay at Mount Pleasant Barns
With so many incredible National Trust properties, stately homes, and gardens close by, Mount Pleasant Barns is the perfect base for your Warwickshire and Cotswolds adventure.
Whether you’re exploring the history of Charlecote Park, admiring the artistry at Compton Verney, or wandering through the floral paradise of Hidcote, each day brings something new to discover.
After a day of exploring, return to your luxurious barn accommodation, relax in the peaceful countryside surroundings, and toast to another unforgettable day in the heart of England. Book here!