The Badminton Estate, located in Gloucestershire, England, is one of the largest private estates in the country. The estate covers an area of over 11,000 acres and is home to one of the most famous country houses in Britain. With its long and interesting history, the estate has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
History of the Badminton Estate
The earliest records of the estate date back to the 12th century when it was owned by the de Badminton family. The estate passed through the hands of many different families over the centuries, including the Dukes of Beaufort, who purchased the estate in 1682. The current house was built by Henry Somerset, the 3rd Duke of Beaufort, in the 1730s. The estate is still owned by the same family today, although much of the estate is now leased out to tenants.
The Size of the Badminton Estate
The Badminton Estate covers an area of over 11,000 acres. This includes the house and gardens, parkland and woodlands, farmland and agricultural land, and a number of other buildings. The estate is divided into several different areas, including the Badminton Park, the Badminton Forest, the Badminton Estate Farms, and the Badminton Estate Village.
The House and Gardens
The Badminton House is the centerpiece of the estate and is one of the most impressive country houses in the country. The house was built in the Palladian style and has been the home of the Somerset family for over 300 years. The house is open to the public and visitors can explore the various rooms, including the library and drawing room, which are filled with art and antiques. The gardens surrounding the house are also open to the public, and visitors can explore the ornamental gardens, woodland trails, and the lake.
The Parkland and Woodlands
The Badminton Estate is home to over 5,000 acres of parkland and woodlands. The parkland includes a variety of habitats, including grassland, heathland, wetlands, and woodlands. The woodlands are home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, badgers, foxes, and birds. There are also a number of walking and cycling trails, which are open to the public.
The Farms
The Badminton Estate is home to over 2,000 acres of farms and agricultural land. The farms are used to produce a variety of crops and livestock, including cereals, potatoes, and sheep. The estate also has a number of orchards and vineyards, which produce apples, pears, and grapes.
The Badminton Estate Village
The Badminton Estate Village is the largest settlement on the estate and is home to over 700 people. The village is made up of a number of small communities, including Badminton, Wick, and Colerne. The village has a variety of shops, pubs, and other amenities, as well as a number of historic buildings.
Conclusion
The Badminton Estate is one of the largest and most impressive private estates in the country. With its long and interesting history, the estate is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The estate covers an area of over 11,000 acres and includes the house and gardens, parkland and woodlands, farms and agricultural land, and the Badminton Estate Village. The estate is home to a variety of wildlife and visitors can explore the various habitats, trails, and historic buildings.