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In 1964, Henry Thynne, the 6th Marquess of Bath, launched the Lions of Longleat drive-through attraction with the aid of circus owner Jimmy Chipperfield. This initiative marked a bold step, as he had previously pioneered the first public access to an English stately home. The new venture was pivotal in securing the estate’s financial stability, transforming it into a thriving national attraction.

60 Years of Evolution

As Longleat celebrates its 60th anniversary, the 8th Marquess, Ceawlin Thynn, reflects on his grandfather’s pioneering vision. “My grandfather would be proud that this has become a national institution,” he remarked. The park has since expanded, now housing over 120 species, many of which are endangered.

“His vision was a gamble, but it was more than that—it was crossing a Rubicon that had never been crossed before. It was debated in the Houses of Parliament,” Lord Bath explained. “It was a huge mountain to climb, a massive effort, and he managed to push it over the line. He truly created an industry that didn’t exist before.”

Lord Bath, who manages the estate with his wife Emma and their two young sons, highlighted the balance between preserving heritage and meeting visitor needs. “There’s a symbiotic relationship between the Elizabethan house and the wider grounds,” he added, acknowledging the challenges of maintaining this equilibrium.

Personal Memories and Legacy

Lord Bath grew up at Longleat, attending local school and returning daily on the school bus. He recalled how children would mimic the estate’s history, playing ghostly games during tours—a tradition he cherished from his own childhood. “We had a brown bear in what was Pets Corner,” he said. “I’d visit it every day after school. That’s a standout moment.”

Regarding the legacy that will eventually pass to his children, Lord Bath emphasized the importance of gradual transition. “Right now, it’s just about letting them get comfortable without pressure, enjoy simple joys like riding bikes and splashing in puddles,” he said. “They’re still young, so the ‘one day’ talk is yet to come.”

He admitted that passing the estate to his children would ultimately be “a wonderful thing.” “It’s a privilege, even if it’s a cliché,” he concluded, underscoring the emotional and historical weight of the responsibility.

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