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
-
Accessible loos
-
Accessible parking
-
Bike storage facilities
-
Free parking
- 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.
Please note: The information on the Historic Houses website is advisory, but please always check the website of the house or garden you intend to visit before travelling.
Acton Court is now closed to the public. Details of 2025 open days will be published in the Spring.
Adult: £12 plus Eventbrite booking fee.
Children under 11 by arrangement, email info@actoncourt.com.
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
By Bus: From Bristol Bus and Coach Station. Bus X46 towards Yate. Get off at The White Hart, Iron Acton. Cross lights B4058/ 4059 junction and short walk down Latteridge Road to Acton Court. Be careful as it’s a busy road, the pavement is very narrow and disappears altogether just before you reach Acton Court.
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
Become a Historic Houses member
Explore the nation’s heritage from just £68 per year.
Hundreds of the most beautiful historic houses, castles, and gardens across Britain offer our members free entry.
Also: receive a quarterly magazine, enjoy monthly online lectures, get exclusive invitations to buy tickets for behind-the-scenes tours, and take up a range of special offers on holidays, books, and other products you might like.
