Corsham Court sits in the heart of the town and the glorious parkland that surrounds the Court is perfect for a spring stroll, an autumn amble or a frosty winter walk.

 

Home to the Methuen Family for over two hundred years, Corsham Court is based on an Elizabethan house dating from 1582. It was bought in the mid-18th century to display Sir Paul Methuen’s celebrated collection of 16th and 17th century Old Master paintings. The intricate plasterwork in the 72ft long Picture Gallery, designed by Capability Brown, is mirrored in the pattern of the carpet. This room, along with the other State Rooms, still retain their original damask wall hangings as well as furniture designed by Chippendale.

 

At the height of his career, Capability Brown was commissioned to work on Corsham Court in 1760, and he extensively re-modelled the house and grounds. He created both a ha-ha and a “Great Walk”, (a one-mile-long path) with trees planted along its length including Cedars and an Oriental Plane. Other features included the construction of a Gothic bath house, which, though well-hidden, can still be found in the grounds, and an orangery in the gardens (long since demolished).

 

There is plenty to see at Corsham Court. The large lawns fan out in front of you with fine specimens of ornamental trees surrounding the Elizabethan mansion. There is a beautiful lily pond with Indian bean trees and a young arboretum topped off with a breathtaking collection of magnolias to complete this idyllic setting. Surrounding the Court are the stunning gardens and parkland, also designed by Capability Brown, and a 13-acre lake. Much of the neighbouring parkland is open for dog walkers all year round.