Located in the South Warwickshire countryside, Compton Verney is a great place to revel in nature, broaden your cultural horizons, unleash your creativity, or simply treat yourself to a relaxing day out.
Although only a stone’s throw from Warwick and Stratford-upon-Avon, and an easy drive from Birmingham and Coventry, the venue feels a world away from hoards of tourists and the bustle of city life.

The art and exhibitions on show are among the best in the country, and there’s also plenty to keep the kids entertained for hours on end.

Outdoors: With autumn upon us, the landscape at Compton Verney is transforming before our very eyes. With a range of walks available, from short strolls on paved pathways to longer jaunts through meadows, the huge site boasts some incredible views (thanks to original landscape designer Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown).

Walking through the grounds feels like taking a trip around the world, with Redwood Sequoias as big as you’d find in California and Cedars of Lebanon dating back to the 18th century.

Compton's park is a perfect space to connect with nature, whether it's stretching your legs with a stroll around the ground's numerous trails, enjoying the peace and quiet of the venue's Ice House Coppice or exploring Morag Myrescough's art installation in the Old Town Meadow. 

Education and fun combine for younger visitors to the park. A specially built hide-out is the perfect place to spot birds on the lake, while a pond dipping platform is sure to provide lots of interest. The Woodland Playground guarantees endless fun and is a great way for kids to burn off excess energy.

Those wanting to combine the great outdoors with a wellness activity should do well to check out the regular Tai Chi sessions in the park. Available for people of varying abilities and levels, the sessions take place Tuesdays, Thursdays and every third Saturday.

Dogs are welcome to attend with their humans but there is a dog walkers' code of conduct, to which visitors mut (get it!) adhere, to ensure everyone's visit is equally pleasurable 

Image credit: Happy Hounds Coventry

Indoors: Among Compton Verney’s many attractions are Chinese bronzes that are thousands of years old, the largest collection of British folk art in the UK, portraits of Tudor royals, and masterpieces by Canaletto and other artists from the ‘golden age’ of Neapolitan art. The venue also hosts a programme of temporary exhibitions throughout the year.  

Shopping: On the lookout for a gift with a difference? Then look no further than Compton's shop. From quirky gifts and beautiful cards to coffee-table books and unique homewares and handbags, there's sure to be something that takes your fancy. And you can shop with a clear conscience too, knowing that all the money you spend goes straight back to charity to support emerging artists, the site’s restoration and arts education for local children.

Refuel: Whether it's breakfast, lunch or a cuppa, cake and natter with your friends that you're after, Fosters Events - the team behind Compton's catering - have it covered. Small plates, mains, sides and a children's menu are all available, while those wanting to grab something alfresco can check out the Pod in the Park offering a range of hot and cold takeaway food and drink.

Membership: As a member, you can enjoy free entry to special exhibitions, art collections and the park, safe in the knowledge that you're helping to preserve the venue's history, art and landscape for future generations to enjoy.

Compton Verney hosts a variety of events and workshops throughout the year. Here are a few coming up during autumn and the early winter period.

The Print Fair, Sat 23 & Sun 24 September. A chance to meet the finest print makers from across the region and celebrate the best of print design, illustration and paper-based crafts. Pre-booking required.

After Hours, Fri 3 November. Special event exploring stories of materials and how we use them to develop ritual, connecting to each other and remembering our loved ones. Expect an array of live music, activities, talks, demonstrations and a silent disco.  

The Textile Fair, Fri 10 - Sun 12 November. Featuring artworks, accessories, wearables, home décor and much more, the fair is an exciting and abundant source of objects and ideas.

Wreath Making, Sat 2 December. Create a unique wreath, using foliage gathered from Compton Verney’s grounds as well as other sustainably sourced materials, and enjoy professional instruction from the talented florists Jo and Heather from Catkins & Clematis.

Tatty Devine Jewellery Workshop, Sat 9 December. Learn how to make iconic Tatty Devine jewellery in this beginner’s necklace-making workshop. You’ll be able to turn your hand to making a ‘five-flag bunting’ necklace with the wonderful Tatty Devine, and even meet lead designer Sophie.  

Christmas concert with Roderick Williams, Thurs 21 December. A one-off performance by the talented opera singer and accompanist, who will perform Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Song of Travel in full.

Spot Santa, Fri 22 - Sun 24 December. See if you can spot Santa hiding in the grounds or galleries. When you do, take a selfie and collect a badge to take home.