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The estate contains the remains of Roman villas, and was recorded in the Domesday Book as ‘Madmintune’ – a name that hints at its deep historical roots.

In the 17th century, the Somerset family made Badminton their principal seat after Raglan Castle was damaged during the English Civil War. Henry Somerset, later created the 1st Duke of Beaufort for his loyalty to the crown, rebuilt and expanded Badminton House in the 1660s. His wife, Mary Somerset, 1st Duchess of Beaufort (1630–1715), was a pioneering botanist who enriched the gardens with rare plants from around the world. Her florilegium of over 170 botanical paintings remains at Badminton, while her herbarium, later gifted to Sir Hans Sloane, is now part of the Natural History Museum, preserving her lasting contribution to horticulture.

The modern sport of badminton takes its name from Badminton House. Evolving from centuries-old versions of battledore and shuttlecock, it was played indoors from around 1863. A string was stretched across the North Hall, and the shuttle was hit back and forth - a soft shuttlecock was used to prevent precious paintings being damaged. Over time, rules became formalised, eventually evolving into the modern game. The North Hall still reflects the dimensions of an early court, a playful reminder of the estate’s role in the sport’s beginnings.

°Õ³ó±ð , first held in 1949 by the 10th Duke of Beaufort, are now one of the world’s premier equestrian events, drawing global attention to the estate each spring. 

Over the centuries, Charles II, William of Orange, and Queen Mary (grandmother of Queen Elizabeth II) have stayed at Badminton House. The late Queen Elizabeth II was a regular visitor to the Badminton Horse Trials.

Set in the glorious Gloucestershire countryside, Badminton House has become a popular , providing a stunning backdrop for major productions such as Bridgerton, The Gentlemen, Pearl Harbor and The Remains of the Day, as well as featuring in fashion shoots, and also the horror sci-fi movie 28 Days Later.

The gardens at Badminton House were designed in the 1980s by renowned landscape artists Russell Page and François Goffinet, blending formal structure with lush, informal planting. 

Today, the Duchess of Beaufort is hands-on in the gardens, working closely with the estate’s team to preserve and evolve the landscape, blending tradition with a personal touch.

An elegant Orangery overlooks a ‘swimming pond’ with a central fountain – an idyllic spot that blends horticulture with heritage.

The East Front of Badminton House boasts two conservatories showcasing the climbing geranium ‘Millfield Gem’, a standout cultivar known for its bold blooms and vigorous growth. Inside the estate’s greenhouse, you’ll find a vibrant display of pelargoniums, carefully propagated to maintain their vivid colours and unique varieties.