Throckmorton family to manage Coughton Court from 2026

Coughton Court is the home of the Throckmorton family who have lived at Coughton since 1409. John de Throckmorton, Under Treasurer of England to Henry VI, acquired Coughton in the early 15th Century through his marriage to Eleanor de Spiney.

Their descendants have held it for 600 years and members of the family still reside here. The present resident, Mr Magnus Birch-Throckmorton, and his family live in the house and manage the stunning gardens which they have created.

In 1946, the Throckmorton family transferred ownership of the property to the National Trust and a 300-year hereditary lease was put in place which grants the family the right to live at Coughton Court and to manage the property as a visitor attraction for the duration of the agreement.

The National Trust has managed visitor operations at Coughton Court under a short-term arrangement with the family since 2005. The Throckmorton family have now let us know that they would like to resume managing the property, in line with the hereditary lease, which they will do from February 2026.

This means that from early next year, the Throckmorton family will be responsible for the day-to-day management of Coughton Court, including opening times and admission charges as the property will no longer be part of the National Trust member offer.

While there will be a change to the day-to-day management of Coughton Court in 2026, the National Trust will remain in ownership of the property and will continue support its care and maintenance.   

During this year, there will be no immediate changes for visitors. We will be re-opening Coughton for the 2025 season on 15 March and look forward to welcoming visitors to enjoy our programme of events and activities throughout year.

If you have any questions regarding the change in management at Coughton, please email us at: mee.customerenquiries@nationaltrust.org.uk