Nestling within magnificent 'Capability' Brown landscaped grounds in the heart of Wiltshire, Longleat House is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful stately homes open to the public. Built by Sir John Thynne and completed in 1580, it has remained the home of the same family ever since. Many treasures are contained within the house: paintings by Tintoretto and Wootton, exquisite Flemish tapestries, fine French furniture and elaborate ceilings by John Dibblee Crace. The murals in the family apartments in the West Wing were painted by Alexander Thynne, the present Marquess, and are fascinating and remarkable additions to the collection. Apart from the ancestral home, Longleat is also renowned for its safari park, which was the first of its kind in the UK. Here, visitors have the rare opportunity to see hundreds of animals in natural woodland and parkland settings. Among the most magnificent sights are the famous pride of lions, wolves, tigers and zebra. Other attractions which ensure a fun family day out include the Longleat Hedge Maze, the Adventure Castle, Jungle Kingdom and the Jungle Cruise, There is also a gorilla colony and giraffe feeding at the African Village.