We are national trust members and decided to visit whilst we were in area. The grounds are extensive and stunning. As you follow the paths round the lake you come across all different temples and buildings, all beautiful and all different. Stowe is used for filming period pieces and you can see why. Stowe house is absolutely beautiful but we didn't go in the house as there is an additional cost of £7.50 each, a shame as would have liked to, but the additional charge put us off. We spent a good couple of hours seeing everything around the grounds, thats how big it is, very beautiful and well looked after.

We visited the parklands National Trust and Stowe House which is not National Trust and has an extra charge. We parked at the National Trust car park and enjoyed a coffee and scone at the café. Lovely outside patios and good sized inside eating on a wet day. We then walked through the parklands to Stowe House. This took 25 minutes brisk walking. The house was open for free flow or guided tours of either 20 minutes or 40 minutes. We would certainly recommend the 40 minute tour during which you get to learn about the families who lived in the house, the architecture and artifacts. Our guide David was very knowledgeable and entertaining. The time flew past. There is also an outstanding museum for adults and children alike. The talking portraits are amazing and answer your questions about the house and its residents. You can also get drinks and snacks at a small cafe. Following our visit to the house and you need to check website for opening times we walked slowly back through the parklands past beautiful lakes. Would really recommend a visit here.