Most people, when visiting Avebury, just go to see the prehistoric standing stones and then leave…read more This is a pity, as there is a lot more of this tiny village than the (admittedly UNESCO world heritage) standing stones.
Just outside the stones, behind the church, is Avebury Manor. This comprises the Manor house itself, the surrounding gardens, a Dovecote, the Alexander Keiller museum (separate charge) and a 17th century barn and a former farmyard block. The manor house was built in the early 16th century, with later additions. Like the stone circle, these are all in the care of the National Trust.
The rooms in the manor house were restored a decade or so ago, as part of a television series produced by the BBC, called "The Manor Reborn". Each of the rooms is decorated and furnished with restored or re-created furniture, to reflect a different period in the life of the house. There is a Tudor dining room and bedroom; the Queen Anne bedroom (she reputedly stayed here); a Georgian styled dining room; the early 20th century billiard room, library and kitchen; and the 1930s lounge. The lounge reflects the period when it was home to the wealthy archaeologist Alexander Keiller, who was responsible for the excavation and restoration of the stones in the 1930s.
Unlike many properties run by the National Trust, Avebury Manor encourages a hands-on experience - you can sit on and touch the furniture, play billions on the billiard table, and generally enjoy being in the house. We found this a very refreshing change, enhance by the really lovely volunteer staff on hand. We could not have been made more welcome. Afterwards, do not miss the gardens, the formal garden, kitchen garden and topiary garden are all charming and afford some lovely photographic opportunities.
Our only disappointment was the museum (we are members, so did not have to pay, but it is charged separately from the house). We found this a bit disappointing, although it does include the story of the restoration of the stones and there are some archaeological finds exhibited. Afterwards, don't miss going in the barn, which houses a veteran touring car.
We visited the café (in the farmyard buildings) afterwards, and had a very nice orange and poppyseed cake and chocolate brownie with tea. I personally find that that National Trust cafés can be a little bit hit and miss, but this one was a hit largely because of the very charming staff.
There is parking for those with disabled badges in the village, about a five minute walk from Avebury Manor itself. For everyone else, the main car park is situated about half a mile away, on the A4361 road between Beckhampton and Avebury.
