FROM its grand state rooms to the flurry of activities and festivals held on the estate each year, Lydiard Park boasts a packed tours and events calendar.

Located on the western edge of Swindon, with the Palladian House, Church and Walled Garden are set in 260 acres of parkland.

There is a wealth of history waiting to be discovered as you tour round the state rooms of Lydiard House, celebrated for its ornate plasterwork, original furnishings and family portraits dating back to Elizabethan times.

Dogs are allowed in the grounds and the park is a lovely destination for a walk, run or bike ride. There are BBQs available to hire in the summer and lots of picnic spots.

Lydiard Park runs events all year round, including Open Air Theatre, Birds of Prey and a Food and Drink Festival. And this spring will be no exception.

Need to know

On Saturday, March 28, amateur astronomers will descend on the estate for a stargazing evening. Guests will have the chance to observe our solar system through telescopes, make their own red light and learn from experts from 6.30pm.

  • Admission is £12 for adults and £10 for children. Family passes for two adults and two children are £40 adults, £12 children, £10 family £40 (2 adults & 2 children) l On Sunday, April 5 from 10am to 4pm, little ones are invited to search for clues around the park and unearth a chocolaty surprise at the Great Lydiard Park Easter Egg trail. Admission is £4 per child.
  • This will be followed on Wednesday, April 8 by Once Upon A Time, a series of interactive story telling workshops at 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm and 2pm. This month’s story is The Tiny Seed, a tale ideal for under-sevens. Tickets are £2 and available from the Coach House Activity Centre from 9.30am on the day.
  • For more details or to book visit www.lydiardpark.org.uk or call 01793 466664.