Acton Court
"One of the best preserved mid-sixteenth century houses in the country" according to English Heritage
Latteridge Road, Iron Acton, Bristol, South Gloucestershire, BS37 9TL
Facilities
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Accessible loos
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Accessible parking
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Cafe / restaurant
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Free parking
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Pet friendly
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Picnic area
- Partial access for wheelchair users
- Accessible toilets
- Guide dogs welcome
- Accessible parking
Acton Court is one of the most important Tudor buildings in the UK.
In 1535 the owner, Nicholas Poyntz built a magnificent new East Wing on to the existing moated manor house in honour of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn’s summer progress around the West Country.
The new wing was a splendid testament to Nicholas Poyntz’s loyalty to his King. He went to immense trouble and expense, decorating the state apartments lavishly and fashionably. He was well rewarded as it is thought he was knighted during the royal visit.
Today, the East Wing, which was built in just nine months, comprises most of what remains at Acton Court. It offers a rare example of 16th-century royal state apartments and some decorations which are the finest of their kind in England. Also surviving and hidden in the masonry until it was discovered during conservation work, is the King’s ‘en suite’ garde-robe.
Important information: opening info is generated by artificial intelligence; check specific attraction details before travelling.
The indicator above will show ‘open’ when the public have any kind of access to any part of this property. That could be the park, a shop, or a special event, and may not reflect regular admission times to the main attraction. Always consult the website of the house or garden you intend to visit before travelling to check that the attraction you are interested in is open.
Opening Times and Visitor Information for Acton Court
Acton Court, a beautifully conserved Tudor house built for the pleasure of Henry VIII, will be open to the public from Wednesday, 27 May 2026 to Sunday, 28 June 2026. During this period, visitors can enjoy self-guided audio tours, events, and workshops.
Opening Days and Hours
- Open: Wednesday to Sunday
- Closed: Monday and Tuesday
Full details of the events and workshops will be posted in the spring of 2026. Visitors are encouraged to follow Acton Court on social media or sign up for the mailing list for updates.
Available Tours
- Self-Guided Audio Tours: Learn the history of Acton Court at your own pace with audio guides. A selection of tours is available, including a theatrical tour and specialist tours.
- A Walk Around the Outside of Acton Court: This tour, led by Angela Nutbrown, covers the standing building, grounds, and garden.
- A Visit to the King’s Rooms: Guided by Rodger Fowler, this tour explores the three rooms built for Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn in 1535, as well as some downstairs rooms.
- Theatrical Tour: Lady Joan Poyntz, as portrayed by Brenda Page, shares memories of her family and the Tudor monarchs.
Additional Information
- Admission includes access to the grounds, the Royal Apartments, the ground floor, and any activities taking place on the day.
- Group bookings are available upon inquiry.
- Amenities include free parking, partial access for disabled visitors, and light refreshments such as tea, coffee, soft drinks, ice cream, and a selection of cakes and pastries (including gluten-free options).
- Members of the Historic Houses Association are welcome and can book visits during the public opening period.
For more information, visitors can contact Acton Court directly or refer to the official announcements in spring 2026.
Adult: £12 plus Eventbrite booking fee.
Children under 11 by arrangement, email [email protected].
Historic Houses members visit the house and grounds for free, and can enquire about booking a visit using the link below.
We welcome visits from primary and seconday schools.
Visits will be arranged with the school based on individual requirements.
- Partial access for wheelchair users
- Accessible toilets
- Guide dogs welcome
- Accessible parking
Getting here
Latteridge Road, Iron Acton, Bristol, South Gloucestershire, BS37 9TL
Between Latteridge and Iron Acton on the B4059.
Not accessible by public transport
Train Stations: Yate: 2.4 miles by road.
Bristol Parkway: 5.3 miles by road.
Bristol Temple Meads: 10.4 miles by road.
Did you know, pieces of Acton Court can be found elsewhere. During archaeological excavations the earliest known sundial in England made by Nicholas Kratzer was discovered in a thorn bush within the grounds. It is now on display at Bristol City Museum.
Visit houses nearby
Hamswell House
Hamswell, Bath, South Gloucestershire, BA1 9DG
Owlpen Manor
Uley, near Dursley, Gloucestershire, GL11 5BZ
Rugbourne Farm
High Littleton, Bristol, Somerset, BS39 6JS
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