St Giles House, Wimborne St Giles

St Giles House is a quadrangular country residence with Renaissance facades on its north and east sides, displaying classical proportions. The buildings sit within a landscape of parkland and gardens that extends across several hectares of Dorset countryside.

The house was built in 1651 and became the ancestral seat of the Ashley-Cooper family, with the first Earl of Shaftesbury gaining prominence during Oliver Cromwell's era. The family shaped the region's history for generations.

The house displays English country house architecture with symmetrical facades and classical elements that shape how it appears today. Visitors can explore the carefully designed rooms and understand how wealthy families lived during this period.

The estate functions as a private residence today but opens for events, weddings, and celebrations. Visitors should plan ahead since access is typically linked to special occasions.

A winding lake curves through the park and conceals an underground grotto from the 18th century decorated with flints, fossils, and minerals. This hidden feature creates water-like effects and was a favorite amusement for visitors of that era.

Location: East Dorset

Location: Wimborne St Giles

Architects: Inigo Jones

Website: http://shaftesburyestates.com

GPS coordinates: 50.90380,-1.95550

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:40