Greys Court

What to see at Greys Court

The history of Greys Court dates from 1086 but the main house was built in the 16th century. The interior of the mansion has clues illustrating how the decor has been updated over the years to account for the tastes of those who lived here.

The gardens of Greys Court mostly date from 1937 when the last family to live here moved in. Highlights include the kitchen garden that was developed during the Second World War as well as the rose garden and the wisteria walk, planted in the 1890s.

The grounds also feature the 14th-century Great Tower and a Tudor-era donkey wheel.

Visiting Greys Court

Greys Court is 4km (2½ miles) from the centre of Henley-on-Thames. It is possible to walk from the town centre in under an hour. Alternatively, Reading Buses route 145 runs from the centre of Henley-on-Thames and stops at St Nicholas Church in Rotherfield Greys, which is around a 20-minute walk from the house.

The mansion is open to the public between February and October but you can still visit the grounds outside these months. During the open season, tours of the house take place daily at 11am and noon. Tours last for 45 minutes. After 1pm the house is open to visitors to explore independently; however, during busy periods timed tickets may be issued.

The Cowshed is Greys Court’s on-site cafe, which serves tea, coffee and cakes as well as light lunches made with produce grown on the estate’s kitchen garden. Free Wi-Fi wireless internet is available at the cafe. There is also a gift shop on site.

You could spend a couple of hours here, particularly if you take a tour and also have lunch in the cafe. However, if you arrive after 1pm and walk around the house at your leisure you should be able to see the highlights in 30–45 minutes.