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Mapperton House and Gardens

Experience a world of luxury and heritage as you explore Mapperton House and Gardens. Walk in the shoes of the Earl of Sandwich and take your family on a trip through time as you explore the well-preserved country estate.


Visiting Mapperton House

Mapperton House

Dorset is full of stunning places to see, but no visit would be complete without seeing one of the brightest jewels in its crown – Mapperton House and Gardens. Mentioned in the Domesday book as “Malperetone”, the place of the maples, the estate has a long and twisted history.

Mapperton House is a timeless place, set in the beautiful Dorset countryside, surrounded by pastureland, hills and valleys. The age and history of Mapperton House and Gardens and unspoilt surrounding land are tangible and enticing.

Described by Country Life Magazine as “The Nation’s Finest Manor House”, the golden Hamstone house sits dreaming of its past through the changing seasons of the year, the glorious gardens reflecting those changes in the valley below.

Address: Mapperton Estate, Mapperton, Beaminster, Dorset, DT8 3NR
Contact: 01308 862645, office@mapperton.com


Guided Tours

Mapperton House is accessible to view by guided tour between July and October. It is a unique way of seeing the still used manor house. Throughout the tour, you are asked not to touch anything, and large rucksacks are not permitted.

On your guided tour of Mapperton House, you can expect two themes. The first is the history of the house and the second is the history of the Earls of Sandwich, interwoven with historical events and people through the ages. There are many stories to be told – but those are best left until you visit.

Talking with other volunteer guides, they share a love of history and heritage. They aim to preserve and maintain Mapperton House for future generations to enjoy.

So many wonderful old houses have been destroyed or broken up into private apartments over the past century, making it even more important to preserve those historic houses that remain. Mapperton House and Gardens are privately owned, but allow guests to help preserve this piece of living history for perhaps another 500 years or more. It gives visitors a chance to enjoy this wonderful gem of England’s heritage.

Why not find out more about Dorset’s famous film and literature locations?


Visiting Mapperton Gardens

Mapperton Gardens

Alongside the impressive manor house is a beautifully maintained romantic garden. Mapperton Garden is registered Grade II* and is one of the most well-kept gardens in the country.

Built in the 17th century, the garden is on four levels. A series of gardens flow together through the valley in one cohesive whole, varying from the Italianate Fountain Court to the elegant topiary gardens. Along the way, you will see rectangular ponds, herb gardens, secret gardens and an impressive 17th-century summer house.

With plants that suit every season, you are treated to a real work of art in the Mapperton Gardens.


Wheelchair Accessible Gardens

Mapperton Gardens are accessible with wheelchairs. Around fifty per cent of the gardens are wheelchair accessible, and there is a recommended route to ensure that wheelchair users get to experience most of the gardens.

Carers can get into Mapperton House and Gardens for free with a valid blue/orange or similar badge. Guide dogs are also welcome throughout all areas of Mapperton House and Gardens.

Whilst the ground floor of Mapperton House is accessible by wheelchair, it is recommended to call before your visit to get more information about wheelchair access.

The Coach House Café is accessible for all and has wheelchair-friendly toilets.


The Coach House Café

Cafe at Mapperton

During your visit to Mapperton House and Gardens, The Coach House Café is ideal for a bite to eat with your friends and family. Whether you are looking for a hot drink, a delicious sandwich or just a break with your friends, The Coach House Café is perfect for all visitors.

The café is located near some of Mapperton’s favourite residents. Outside in the picnic area, you can enjoy a bite to eat with a giant tortoise, chickens, doves and ducks.

If you like afternoon tea, why not stay in one of these Dorchester cottages and explore the cafes the city has to offer.


Shopping at Mapperton House and Gardens

Each year at Mapperton House and Gardens, the team put on a pop-up shop for the visitors. The shop offers several hand-selected items that best showcase the local area.

You can choose unique gifts, cards, preserves at the Mapperton House and Garden pop-up shop. It is the perfect place to find a gift for your friend’s special occasion.


Whether you are travelling with family, friends or children, Mapperton House and Gardens offer insight into the luxurious lives of the Earl and Countess of Sandwich. Take the stress out of your visit with a stop in a unique Beaminster cottage.


Image Credits – Michael Garlick – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Chris Gunns – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Michael Garlick – (CC BY-SA 2.0)