Step inside the visitor centre and take a moment to relax and refresh yourself. Open daily throughout the summer 11am-4.30pm and at weekends during winter 11am-3.30pm. Entry is free of charge and is fully accessible. When you make a purchase, your proceeds support our charity to look after this special place.
Refreshments
Whether you’re in the mood for a winter-warming hot chocolate or a strong coffee, take a seat and enjoy a treat. You’ll find a selection of snacks, cakes and treats. For those hot days, quench your thirst on a cooled drink and enjoy the dilemma of choosing between the various ice cream flavours.
Our team are on hand to help you should you have any questions. We have a range of gluten/vegan options available. There’s also plenty of space to relax and we have additional picnic tables outdoors in our courtyard. Breastfeeding is welcome, if you need any help getting your refreshments to the table, we’d be more than happy to help, and we can provide extra water should you need it.
We love to see your four-legged friends and you’ll find a water bowl by the entry door to the visitor centre. Dogs on leads are welcome inside, but please note they cannot be taken into the museum or State Rooms.
Retail therapy
Looking for a unique memento or a thoughtful gift, we have just the thing. Many of our souvenirs are unique to Stowe House, so be sure to pick up one of our favourite magnets, mugs, or cuddly Leo the Lion as they’re not available from the National Trust gift shop.
Those who enjoy a good book to read you’ll find interesting details from the family history to restoration to the art displayed in the house by David Wynne. Of course, you’ll find a guidebook – no trip to a heritage place could be complete without one.
Second-hand books
We also have a varied selection of pre-loved books waiting to be enjoyed. From a children’s tale to share with the grandchildren or a book to take to a far-flung island for your holiday, your donations will help us with our latest restoration work. If you’re feeling spontaneous, play blind date with a book and choose at random.
Picnics
When the British summertime is at its best, you can’t beat a quintessential picnic. We have a large lawn to spread out on by the visitor centre courtyard for you to savour the moment in stunning surroundings. Pop in for a treat to top up your hamper. We kindly ask you to take any rubbish home with you so that the environment stays clean – you'll enjoy the serenade of happy bird calls as they flit through the hedges bordering the lawn.
Before you consider setting off for the rest of your visit, you’ll find toilet facilities including disabled and baby change in our visitor centre.