In a significant change announced in June, the Throckmorton family will take back the management of Coughton Court in Warwickshire from the National Trust starting February 2026. This news initially sparked disappointment among National Trust members, who stood to lose their free entry to the property.
However, a silver lining has emerged: Coughton Court will join the Historic Houses membership scheme. This means that paying the £68 annual fee for Historic Houses membership grants free access not only to this Tudor country house but also its esteemed gardens, valuable collections, and scenic country walks.
Currently closed for the winter, Coughton Court is set to reopen under the family’s stewardship in March 2026. Residents Magnus and Imogen Birch Throckmorton, along with their children, will oversee day-to-day operations, continuing the family’s long-standing connection with the estate.
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While there will still be an entry fee to explore the main house, the family has committed to keeping The Stableyard open and free for the local community. Visitors can enjoy a revitalized café, an estate shop featuring local products and gifts, a charity bookshop, and a children’s play area—all designed to welcome and engage everyone.
Historic Houses members also enjoy access to other notable regional sites, including Charterhouse in Coventry, Hartlebury Castle in Worcestershire, and Harvington Hall near Kidderminster. Each visit supports the upkeep and preservation of these historic places, including Coughton Court.
Magnus Birch Throckmorton expressed enthusiasm about the transition: “We are excited to welcome visitors back to Coughton Court in 2026 and proud to join the Historic Houses scheme. It’s an honor to continue our family’s stewardship and share this remarkable estate’s rich history and beauty with all ages.”
James Probert, Historic Houses’ Director of Marketing and Development, echoed this sentiment: “Welcoming Coughton Court to our membership scheme is fantastic news. Our members now gain free entry to this and many other independent heritage sites across the Midlands and beyond, while helping to preserve these extraordinary properties.”
A historic landmark since it was built in 1409 by Sir Robert Throckmorton, Coughton Court has a deep family legacy, with the Throckmortons having managed the estate for over 300 years, including under a lease since it was gifted to the National Trust in 1946.
Located in Alcester, Warwickshire (B49 5JA), Coughton Court offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience centuries of history, architecture, and natural beauty under the renewed care of the Throckmorton family.