Bowood has revealed its summer events programme designed to encourage guests to get closer to nature, discover the estate’s history, and experience world-class culture in the heart of Wiltshire.
The schedule offers a vibrant mix of outdoor adventure, family craft activities, and theatrical experiences.
Lord Kerry, 11th generation custodian of the Bowood Estate, said: “In the 50th year of the House and Gardens being open to the public, it’s important to us that we continue to enable our guests to connect with the beauty of the natural world, be fascinated by the history that can be discovered, and to make new memories in this special place.
“My focus is to ensure that every guest has an excellent visit to Bowood, and that the experience we offer is educational, enjoyable, and entertaining.”
The renowned international photography exhibition, Earth Photo, will be presented within Bowood’s Arboretum as part of its 2025 tour from Wednesday 23 July to Monday 1 September. The photos exhibited showcase stories from across the globe, from the melting sea ice of Greenland to the vanishing oases of Morocco and complement Bowood’s mission to educate its guests on the pressing issues of climate change and celebrate human resilience.
The exhibition, created by the Royal Geographical Society and Forestry England, aims to inspire conversation about the world through visual storytelling. Entry to the exhibition is included with general admission.
Bowood has partnered with Wiltshire Wildlife Trust to run a range of nature-themed activities including bug hunts, bark rubbing, scavenger trails, and butterfly counting supporting the national Big Butterfly Count. The partnership has been established to teach children about biodiversity, pollinators, and the importance of conservation. Activities run from Saturday 2 to Sunday 10 August 2025 and are included with a day ticket.
Outdoor adventure company, Mud & Guts, returns to Bowood this summer to reconnect children with the joy of being outside. The experience immerses guests aged six to 10 in the natural world through a range of bushcraft and survival skills, including den building, fire lighting, rope swinging, and action-packed outdoor games. Sessions run every Thursday from 31 July through to 28 August 2025 and cost £21.50 per child, no day ticket required.
The Great Big Tree Climbing Company is at Bowood this summer to give guests the chance to experience nature like never before. Children aged six and over and adventurous adults can scale the heights of selected ancient and veteran trees under expert supervision. Tree climbing is available on Tuesday 29 and Wednesday 30 July as well as on Friday 29 and Saturday 30 August 2025. Tickets are £30, no day ticket required.
Bowood encourages families to enjoy daily arts and crafts sessions in the charming setting of The Bothy, available daily from 12pm to 4pm from July 26 to August 31. Sessions are included with a standard day ticket.
Bowood celebrates the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth with a magical open-air adaptation of her famous novel, Emma, by on Saturday 2 August 2025. This is my Theatre bring her classic tale of romance to life amongst the historic Georgian grounds. The Duke's Theatre Company later brings a bold, innovative, and contemporary production of Shakespeare’s Macbeth to Bowood on Friday 15 August 2025. Tickets start from £15 per person and must be booked in advance.
A Caribbean-inspired BBQ feast is served on the Shelburne Restaurant terrace on Thursday 10 July 2025. Indulge in flavourful dishes fresh off the grill, sip on a complimentary glass of rum punch, and soak in the relaxed summer atmosphere with upbeat music while admiring the stunning backdrop of Bowood’s parklands. Tickets are £20 per person.
Try Bowood’s own Honey & Rose Infused Gin, created to celebrate 50 years since the House & Gardens first opened to the public, with Hawkridge Distillers on Sunday 6 July 2025. The interactive Gin Lovers Afternoon Tea Delight event includes a live demonstration on how botanicals influence flavour, aroma, and character, three expertly led gin tastings, and a beautifully crafted afternoon tea with a gin-inspired twist. Tickets are £44 per person and must be booked in advance. Guests must be 18 or over to attend.
The Bowood Hotel hosts quintessentially British Jazz Afternoon Teas on Sunday 22 June and Sunday 3 August 2025. Vintage jazz singer Kitty Mazinksy accompanies the afternoon, while guests indulge in delicate finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones and pastries. Tickets are £42 per person and booking is essential.
Find out more about Bowood's Great Summer Adventure here: https://bowood.org/great-summer-adventure/
Discover Bowood’s full events programme: bowood.org/whats-on
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