BOWOOD'S MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The spa is open seven days a week, 7am - 9pm.

Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your treatment so there is ample time to check in and relax.

Please inform us of any health conditions, allergies, or injuries when booking a treatment so that we can advise and accommodate your needs safely.

The age limit for spa treatments is 16.

Our pool is 15 metres long and 6 metres wide.

The pool's temperature is kept at 30 degrees — the perfect temperature for a relaxing dip or swim.

Our jacuzzi is kept at a lovely 38 degrees.

Hotel guests are welcome to arrive in the robe from their room. Please wear underwear or dry swimwear during your treatment.

Yes, we accept groups of up to eight people. But please note, we can't accept hen parties or baby shower groups — we want to ensure a relaxing experience for all of our spa guests.

Children are welcome to use our pool between 8am - 9am and 4pm - 5pm daily.

Exclusively for our members, our fitness classes include flexibility classes, boot camps, running club, virtual classes, yoga and more. Get in touch and enquire about our memberships to find out more.

Yes, our spa members will receive a large towel and hand towel each to use on the day.

Unfortunately not. However, all our spa day packages include access to the spa, a treatment and food.

Yes, after 12 weeks of pregnancy, we can tailor certain treatments, and we also offer treatments designed specifically for mothers-to-be. Unfortunately, we do not offer any beauty treatments for mothers-to-be under 12 weeks of pregnancy. Please get in touch if you have any questions.

Absolutely. We can provide club hire for all golfers, but this does exclude playing accessories including tees, balls, gloves, etc.

Members, guests and visitors can pre-book their tee times online. For more information or help, please get in touch with the Pro Shop directly on 01249 823 881, or email proshop@bowood.org.

(A deposit will be required on booking. All visitors (or the entire four-ball) must register with the Pro Shop before playing).

Our opening times are:

PGA golf course and academy course: Open daily from 7am
Driving range: Open daily from 7am – 9pm
Clubhouse Bar: Open daily from 8am
Halfway house: Open daily from 9.30am – mid-afternoon
Pro Shop: Open daily from 7am – 5pm

The academy course and driving range are free to use when you book a stay at Bowood (tokens purchased separately).

A round of golf on the 18-hole PGA Championship course is available to purchase and book separately.

Yes, we can accommodate special dietary requirements, provided these are arranged in advance. We always strive to ensure all guests are well catered for.

Yes, we have a list of trusted local suppliers who we can recommend. These suppliers have worked with us previously and are familiar with Bowood. Get in touch for more information on suppliers by messaging us, here.

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own cake. Please note that we cannot provide storage or assist with the set-up of your cake.

Your event coordinator will be happy to discuss specific timings, which will be detailed in your proposal and confirmation.

This can be arranged with your event coordinator, who will guide you through the process.

We provide a clothed cake table, 3ft in diameter, for display. We also offer a square or silver cake stand (dimensions to be confirmed), or you are welcome to bring your own.

We can provide a 15ft x 15ft wooden dance floor. If you would prefer a different style, such as a sparkly floor from your DJ, that is fine, though please ensure adequate time is allocated for set-up and dismantling.

Yes, you will have a dedicated banqueting team to oversee your event on the day.

Final numbers and specific requirements should be provided at least seven working days before your event.

This will depend on the day of the week, but celebrations can typically continue until 12.30am. Your coordinator can confirm this at the time of booking.

We offer a variety of fantastic catering options at Bowood, so unfortunately we do not allow external catering or dry hire.

Yes, complimentary parking is available onsite for your event, including access to electric charging points and disabled parking spaces.

Our cancellation policy is outlined in our terms and conditions.

Bowood is licensed by Wiltshire Council’s Registration Services, with several rooms, including The Kerry Suite and outdoor Pavilion, approved for micro-weddings. We recommend booking your registrar before confirming your date with us. For details, availability, and fees, Wiltshire Registration can be contacted at 0300 003 4571 (Monday – Friday, 8.30am – 4pm).

The Kerry Suite can accommodate 180 daytime guests and up to 220 total guests for evening celebrations. Detailed floorplans are available on request.

Yes, Bowood hosts one wedding per day — which is how we like it. Depending on the weather, all event spaces can be used to create your perfect day.

Yes, full venue hire is available. This includes more flexibility with the grounds and rooms, a consultation with our Executive Head Chef for bespoke menus, and accommodation for up to 43 guests. The spa and golf club, however, are not included as they remain accessible to members.

A non-refundable deposit of £1000 confirms your reservation. After this:
- 12 months before: 25% of contracted costs
- 6 months before: 25% of contracted costs
- 3 months before: balance due
Any additional charges must be settled no later than three days before the event.

Payments can be made via BACS or by Credit/Debit Card. Contact our Events Team on 01249 822228 for phone payments.

For smaller gatherings, The Kerry Suite can be partitioned. The Wedding Pavilion is available for outdoor ceremonies (weather permitting). We also offer 'The Parlour' for intimate ceremonies of up to 8 people.

Yes, feel free to invite guests to your show round. Menu tastings are complimentary for the couple, with additional guests at a supplementary cost.

Yes, apart from the ceremony, timings are entirely customisable. We aim for a relaxed, personalised experience.

We welcome children and offer reduced prices for those under 12. Children with larger appetites can upgrade to adult portions at a supplement.

Yes, all areas of The Kerry Suite are on one level, and we provide wheelchair access to the Pavilion. An accessible toilet is available, and golf buggies can assist with transportation for guests with mobility issues.

No, our packages are comprehensive, covering staff, standard items (chairs, tables, linens, etc.), and room cleaning, except in cases requiring excessive cleaning.

Dogs are not allowed at the resort, though they are welcome on public footpaths for photos.

Yes, complimentary parking is available for all guests, including electric charging points and disabled spaces.

We’ll have an initial planning meeting 6-7 months before the wedding and check in about 4 weeks prior. We also offer a phone call a week before the event to finalise details. However, you’re welcome to contact us anytime.

A drop-off meeting is arranged in the week before the wedding. Our operations team will set up chairs, tables, and tableware. We can also assist with positioning favours, name cards, and signs. For larger setups, we recommend hiring a venue decorator.

We offer mirrored plates for centrepieces and candelabras for hire at £25 each.

Suppliers have access from 7am on the day. We cannot store cakes, so we recommend delivery later in the day.

If available, you can access the venue the night before. Otherwise, setup can begin on the morning of the wedding. We recommend enlisting family and friends to assist.

We ask that nothing is stapled, nailed, or glued to the walls. Any suspended décor must be installed by a professional with public liability insurance.

Yes, you can bring your own suppliers, though we recommend reputable companies. We also have a list of trusted suppliers, here.

We offer a clothed cake table and a selection of cake stands. You’re welcome to bring your own if preferred.

An Operations Manager will oversee the day, acting as your toastmaster. Your coordinator will ensure the setup of the ceremony and wedding breakfast runs smoothly.

We offer easels for welcome signs, order of the day, and table plans. Staff will happily assist guests with directions.

Popular spots include the Golden Gates, tree-lined driveway, and private terrace. Engagement photoshoots can be arranged on-site before the wedding.

We recommend staying the night before in the honeymoon suite. Guests arriving early can use the golf and spa changing rooms.

We will do our best to accommodate early check-in, but this cannot be guaranteed. Standard check-in is 3pm, and checkout is 11am.

Yes, we allow biodegradable petals outside and silk petals inside. Confetti cannons are not permitted.

A drinks reception follows the ceremony, allowing time for photos while The Kerry Suite is reset for the wedding breakfast.

There are many ways to honour loved ones, such as a remembrance poem, toasts, or a memory table with photos and candles. Speak with your registrar for ceremony options.

Yes, we provide a wireless microphone and a Bluetooth PA system for your playlist. For outdoor ceremonies, we can set up a speaker.

You can customise The Kerry Suite to your preference. Popular setups include long top tables, U-shapes, or sweetheart tables for two.

After your meal and speeches, resident guests can check in at the hotel. The Kerry Bar will remain open while we reset the room for the evening reception.

You are free to hire any DJ, disco, or live band. We ask that they provide proper documentation. The bar closes at 12.30am, and music ends at 1am, but residents may continue at The Shelburne Bar.

Taxis from local towns can be arranged, and we recommend guests pre-book.

Yes, provided by a licensed company, with a cut-off time of 10pm. Sparklers are also welcome.

We provide a 15ft by 15ft wooden dance floor, but you can hire a different one if you prefer.

The cake is usually cut at the start of the evening reception. There is no additional charge.

Please email us at houseandgardens@bowood.org with your name, the date you visited, and a brief description of the item. We will check our lost property items to see if this has been handed in and come back to you.

Amateur photography and filming is allowed within the grounds of Bowood and in the house, just no flash photography within the House. No commercial photography or filming is allowed within the House & Gardens without our consent. If you have a photography or filming request, please contact Sarah Forwood on s.forwood@bowood.org. For filming, please see our information, here. Drones are not allowed on the estate.

Please note that smoking or vaping is not allowed on site.

Unfortunately all bicycles including children’s bikes, scooters, skateboards and rollerskates are not allowed within the grounds of Bowood or our Woodland Garden. Parking is available opposite the admissions point and bicycles can be left in our car park area but entirely at the owner’s risk. If you choose to cycle to us, please be aware that the roadways are very narrow.

Wheelchairs are available at the House & Gardens on a first-come, first-served basis.

We offer discounted day tickets for visitors with disabilities and their registered carers, at 50% off standard ticket prices for the House & Gardens and woodland gardens. Please present one of the following documents, dated within the last 12 months, along with your ticket confirmation at admissions:
1. Disability Living Allowance or Attendance Allowance letter
2. Personal Independence Payment letter
3. A letter from a GP or consultant confirming the need for a full-time carer (diagnosis not required)
We also offer a Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) hour. On the first Saturday of each month, the Adventure Playground, The Den, and Treehouse Café will open at 9.30am exclusively for visitors with additional needs or hidden disabilities, and their immediate family or carers. For any questions, please email houseandgardens@bowood.org.

There are no overnight parking or camping facilities on the estate. However, our hotel is just a short walk away. View our rooms and suites, here.

Complimentary car parking is available next to admissions. For the safety of your pets, please do not leave them in parked cars. While we strive to provide a secure environment, Bowood cannot assume responsibility for any damage, accidents, or losses that may occur while using our car park.

Unfortunately, we no longer offer complimentary access for Historic Houses members. You can book your day tickets, here.

No longer offer for 2024

RHS members receive complimentary entry to the woodland gardens only. Please ensure you show your RHS membership card on arrival to gain access. Our woodland gardens are open during the flowering season, mid April – early June, and tickets can be purchased online or on the day.

Season ticket holders can access Bowood’s seasonal trails on a complimentary basis. Any events operated via a third party and held in the Bowood grounds incur a separate entry fee.

Yes, you can visit the woodland gardens during the opening season as much as you want. You do not need to book tickets, just show your 2025 ticket holder card on arrival. Please note, our woodland gardens are currently closed and will re-open for the 2025 season mid-April to early June. Dates and prices coming soon.

Yes, we do. Find out more about group tours and visits, here.

Our House & Gardens are currently closed and will re open on 1st April - 2nd November 2025. The woodland gardens are a separate attraction, open during the flowering season mid April to early June.

Our daily opening times are as follows:

• The Gardens: 10.30am (last entry at 4.30pm) - 5.30pm
• Treehouse Café: 10am - 5.30pm
• Adventure Playground: 10.30 - 5.15pm (equipment locked from 5pm)
• The Den: 10.30am - 5.15pm
• The House: 10.30am - 5pm (last entry at 4.30pm)
• The Stables: 10.30am - 5pm, (lunch: 12pm - 2pm, Cream tea: 2.30pm - 5pm)

The woodland gardens are currently closed and will re-open in 2025 for the flowering season from mid-April to early June. Dates and prices coming soon.

We do offer discounted group rates to groups of 15 or more. This needs to be booked in advance. Please contact Lisa Kent by emailing l.kent@bowood.org for prices and to book.

Please create an account online before purchasing your tickets. This will enable you to log into your account to change your date of visit online up to 24 hours before your arrival (only available on day tickets to the House & Gardens).

Only working assistance dogs are permitted at the House & Gardens. When possible, please ensure your dog is wearing their recognisable harness or jacket.

We ask all our visitors to pre-book day tickets online in advance, which allows faster entry into the grounds on the day. Tickets for our tours available on selective dates throughout the season, must be purchased in advance online. All workshops and events must be booked online in advance, and for third-party events, please purchase tickets directly from direct websites.

Workshops and events are subject to separate terms and conditions. Groups of 15 or more receive a discount and must be booked before arrival. If you have any questions, please contact Lisa Kent at l.kent@bowood.org.

early-bird season tickets for 2025 will go on sale online from Sunday 1st December 2024.

No, Bowood's House & Gardens will remain a cash-free site.

The Adventure playground is for children aged 12 and under, with older children only allowed if supervising a younger child. The Space Dive, featuring a 19-foot vertical drop, is also limited to children 12 and under. The Flying Fox has a height restriction of 130cm, and The Den and Activity Barn are suitable for children aged seven and under.

Parents and guardians are responsible for supervising their children in all areas, including the playground and The Den. While staff are available during school holidays and weekends, supervision remains the parents' responsibility.

The Flying Fox and large slides are closed during heavy rain for safety, but the house, grounds, and The Den remain open.

Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult in the grounds at all times.

We offer half-price admission for visitors with disabilities and their carers. Assistance dogs are welcome, ideally with a recognisable harness. Gravel paths may make wheelchair and pushchair access challenging, but designated parking and wheelchairs are available (subject to availability). A drop-off point near the house can be arranged upon request, with car keys held for security reasons.

Accessible toilets are in the Treehouse Café, and baby changing facilities are also available. Please note, garden tours and certain areas, such as the upper floors and parts of the gardens, may be difficult to access due to stairs and uneven terrain. You can read our Accessibility Policy, here. If you have any questions, please contact our team, here.

Season tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Entry to Bowood is granted only to the named holder of the ticket, and you must bring your confirmation email and relevant paperwork for your first visit, including disability documentation if applicable. Aged 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

A season ticket offers a wealth of benefits, including unlimited access to the House & Gardens throughout the open season, along with access to the woodland gardens from 12th April to 2nd June. You will also enjoy a 10% discount on guest day tickets, allowing up to five guests per visit when accompanied by the season ticket holder.

Complimentary entry to seasonal trails is included, as well as a 10% discount at the Treehouse Café, Stables Café, ice cream kiosk, and terrace shop. Season ticket holders also receive discounts on guided tours and exclusive discounts on selected workshops and events throughout the season.

Find out more about the benefits of being a season ticket holder, here.

Please be aware that in the event of inclement weather, the Flying Fox (zip wire), Jumping Pillows, and large outdoor slides may be closed for safety reasons. All other attractions will remain open as usual. We are unable to offer reductions or discounts due to weather conditions. Bowood management reserves the right to close the House & Gardens in exceptional circumstances.

The Treehouse Café is located next to admissions and The Stables Café is located within the Bowood house. You are welcome to bring picnic food to eat in the grounds (except the terraces by the house) and picnic benches are provided. Unfortunately, barbeques are not permitted anywhere within the grounds including the car park.

Yes, if you are staying at our hotel during our House & Gardens' open seasons, you receive complimentary access to the house, gardens and woodland gardens. Please speak to our team for more details, either by phoning us on 01249 822 228 or emailing hotereception@bowood.org.

Swimming or paddling in the lake, cascade, or fountains is strictly forbidden. Fishing on the lake is by annual permit only — day tickets are not available. Please call 01249 812102 for more information.