Still the ancestral residence of the duke of Bedford, Woburn Abbey houses countless Grand Tour treasures and old master paintings, including 20 stunning Canalettos that practically wallpaper the crimson dining salon, and excellent works by Gainsborough and Reynolds. The Palladian mansion contains a number of etchings by Queen Victoria, who left them behind after she stayed here. Outside, nine species of deer roam the grounds that include an antiques center and small restaurant. The adjacent, Woburn Safari Park is a popular drive-through wildlife experience, home to big game from around the world. Jeep tours, walks with elephants, and other special packages are available. There are plenty of play areas, a boating lake with swan boats, and walkabouts with small animals such as wallabies.
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