The home of two great families, the Booths and the Greys, the history of Dunham Massey is intimately tied to empire. A fortunate marriage to an East India trading heiress saved the property at the beginning of the 18th century.

Dunham Massey has a connection to Haile Selassie, Emperor of Ethiopia and staunch opponent of fascism. Roger, 10th Earl of Stamford and lifelong friend of the emperor from the time of his visit to Dunham Massey in 1938, flew the Lion of Judah flag from the roof of the house each year to mark Selassie’s birthday.

Dunham is also home to one of Britain’s finest winter gardens, with plenty of scent and colour to delight the senses throughout the year. Unwind on one of the accessible circular walks before warming up with a hearty homemade meal at the Stables Restaurant.

The culmination of a lifetime of dreams: salvaged objects and exotic pieces come together in a Jacobean meets Edwardian style. Beautiful, homely, warm and welcoming. We can't put it better than a visitor in the 1920s did: A house to dream of, a garden to dream in.

The house was originally built in the 16th century, yet its interiors were extensively restored between the First and Second World Wars by Graham Baron Ash to create a fascinating 20th-century evocation of domestic Tudor architecture.

Packwood House contains a fine collection of 16th-century textiles and furniture, and the gardens have renowned herbaceous borders and a famous collection of yews.

A country retreat in the heart of Worcestershire. The house and garden, originally a stage-set for summer parties, offer a glimpse into life at the turn of the 18th century. Don't miss the original wall-paintings by Sir James Thornhill. Full of drama and politics, they show the birth of Georgian society.

The original formal gardens, designed by George London, have been faithfully re-created and complement the relaxed later gardens, with orangery, orchards and walled garden. If you venture further afield, our walks leaflet will help you find George London’s visionary Semicircle in the parkland - the beginning of the landscape movement.

The scale and beauty of Stowe have attracted visitors for over 300 years. Picture-perfect views, winding paths, lakeside walks and temples create a timeless landscape, reflecting the changing seasons. Full of hidden meaning, the gardens were created as an earthly paradise and still cast their spell today.

The sheer size and space is perfect for those who love the outdoors and enjoy walking. A scenic walk from New Inn takes you into the gardens, where another world awaits. Stowe is great to explore all day long when you explore the far reaches of the garden and parkland to make the most of your day.

Explore this French Renaissance-style château built by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild in 1874 to entertain the fashionable world and to house his collection of fine art. We're continuing the tradition today of entertainment and hospitality with events celebrating food and wine, and opportunities for you to explore our history, collections and gardens through changing exhibitions and special interest days.

Step back in time in the Victorian style gardens, gaze at flamboyant colours on the parterre amid the ornate fountains and statuary. Hear the rare and exotic birds calling from the roccoco style Aviary found in the heart of the gardens. Alternatively spend a fun filled day with the family, and have an adventure in the woodland playground which winds through the trees, making use of the natural environment to create a magical area to play.

Recreating the glamour of motor racing as it used to be, the Motor Circuit comes alive for the Revival, both on and off the historic track. The only historic race meeting to be staged entirely in period dress, the Revival sees a return to the halcyon days of Goodwood as the spiritual home of British motor racing.

It’s a celebration of bygone days, vintage fashion and wheel-to-wheel racing around this classic circuit, which remains unchanged since its heyday.

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, although the National Trust has owned the house since 1946, the family still live here. The present resident, Mr Magnus Birch-Throckmorton, and his family enjoy occupancy of the house under a 300 year lease.

The origins of Coughton Court lie in pre-conquest times and there is evidence of a house on this site from the 14th Century. The present building was begun in the 15th Century and has since survived in a family who for much of that time were impoverished, persecuted or imprisoned for their adherence to the Catholic faith.

A vast medieval fortress that endured a famous siege and later became an Elizabethan palace, Kenilworth Castle is among Britain’s biggest historical sites.

Experience 900 years of history as you can marvel at the mighty medieval keep, climb the towers to admire the fantastic views, and imagine the majesty of the Great Hall.

Once boasting the finest architecture in Elizabethan England, you can also walk in the footsteps of Queen Elizabeth 1 as you explore Leicester’s Building which was created specifically for her visits, and discover the authentically recreated Elizabethan garden.

Chatsworth is home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, and has been passed down through 16 generations of the Cavendish family.

Chatsworth House is renowned for the quality of its art, landscape and hospitality, and it has evolved through the centuries to reflect the tastes, passions and interests of succeeding generations.

Today, Chatsworth contains works of art that span 4,000 years, from ancient Roman and Egyptian sculpture, and masterpieces by Rembrandt, Reynolds and Veronese, to work by outstanding modern artists, including Lucian Freud, Edmund de Waal and David Nash.

There are over 25 rooms to explore, from the magnificent Painted Hall, regal State Rooms, restored Sketch Galleries and beautiful Sculpture Gallery.

Seeing the tumbling architecture of Little Moreton Hall for the first time, engineers in 1990 could not believe their eyes either. This timber-framed building, curled around with a scenic moat, has defied logic for over 500 years. Step back in time inside this higgledy-piggledy house and discover what everyday Tudor life tells us about the way we live today.

In the Knot garden you’ll find herbs and vegetables that the Tudors would have used for their cooking and medicines surrounding the Elizabethan style knot garden. Take a stroll around the moat to spot creatures great and small who call Little Moreton Hall their home.

This amazing Victorian garden was created by James Bateman for his collection of plants from around the world. A visit takes you on a global journey from Italy to the pyramids of Egypt, a Victorian vision of China and a re-creation of a Himalayan glen.

The garden features collections of rhododendrons, summer bedding displays, a stunning Dahlia Walk and the oldest surviving golden larch in Britain, brought from China in the 1850s.

The Geological Gallery shows how Bateman's interests went beyond botany. Opened in 1862 the unique hallway is a Victorian attempt to reconcile geology and theology.

Overlooking the river Avon on the edge of Shakespeare’s Stratford, Charlecote Park has been part of this corner of rural Warwickshire for centuries. Still the Lucy family home after 900 years, you can explore the vision of the Victorian owners George Hammond Lucy and his wife, the formidable Mary Elizabeth, who extended their home and filled it with treasures from their European travels.

Linger in the rooms open to our visitors in the central portion of the house to discover more about the collection brought together by generations of the family whose tastes, lifestyle and varied fortunes are all reflected here

Today, the kitchen is brought to life in cooking and costume. Across the courtyard you can explore the laundry and brewhouse which once hummed with the activity of a busy working estate. Discover the stables which house the family’s carriage collection, each with its own story to tell.

Stroll through the gardens that Mary Elizabeth loved so dearly, from the formal parterre to the shady woodland garden with rare plants and borders full of colourful herbaceous planting.

Baddesley Clinton was the home of the Ferrers family for 500 years.

Much of the house you see today was built by Henry Ferrers, a lawyer, diarist and antiquarian, in the late 1500s.

The house was a sanctuary not only for the Ferrers family, but also for persecuted Catholics who were hidden from priest hunters in its secret hiding places during the 1590s.

Nestling on the edge of the Peak District, Lyme was once home to the Legh family and, in its heyday a great sporting estate.

The 1,400 acre estate with its medieval herd of red deer offers fantastic walks and stunning views.

For a tranquil walk explore the elegant Rose Garden, Ravine Garden or the luxurious herbaceous borders next to the reflecting lake where a certain Mr Darcy met Miss Bennet in the BBC production of 'Pride and Prejudice'.

Head in to the house to step back in time to the Regency era - a time which saw great rejuvenation for Lyme.

Set high above the Thames with far-reaching views, Cliveden’s impressive gardens and majestic woodlands capture the grandeur of a bygone age.

Follow in the footsteps of dukes, earls and royalty as you explore a series of gardens, each with their own special charm. From the formality of the Parterre with its vibrant floral displays to the quirky statuary and topiary in the Long Garden, the gardens will delight you in every season.

The formal gardens give way to secluded glades, tree-lined avenues and picturesque riverside with miles of woodland walks to discover.

Standing proud and strong, this fine Georgian mansion sits within 'Capability' Brown’s final garden and landscape. In the house, discover jewel-like interiors, designed by Henry Holland and home to the Harley, Rodney and Cawley families. Uncover the story of Ann Bangham, first lady of Berrington, and see her restored 18th century court mantua dress.

Created as the perfect house in the perfect setting, Berrington Hall has many secrets for visitors to uncover. In this, one of Henry Holland's first houses, you can also explore the family rooms and, on select days, see how the servants moved around the house unseen by the family and guests.

The interiors include Biaggio Rebecca ceilings, fine period furniture and there are some pieces on display from the Wade Collection. The house is surrounded by Capability Brown's final landscape. Though it has a slightly austere exterior, the house has delicate interiors and a homely, welcoming feel.

There’s more than meets the eye at Croome. Owned by the Coventry family since the 16th century, Croome has a fascinating history. The Coventrys used their wealth – from successes as statesmen and lawyers, and from colonial connections and advantageous marriages – to create this magnificent place.

At its heart lies Croome Court, the brainchild of the 6th Earl of Coventry, an 18th-century trend-setter who collaborated with the best new talent of the day – Robert Adam and Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown’ – to create a grand house, on the site of the family’s earlier home, and one of the most innovative designed landscapes in Britain.

Rescued from almost total loss, today the parkland with its serpentine river, commanding views over the Malverns and elegant garden buildings, is a perfect place for walks and adventures, with a surprise around every corner.

During the Second World War Croome was used as a secret wartime airbase. Learn more about this fascinating period, and the activities of the many people who worked here, in the RAF museum located at the visitor centre.

A stark symbol of power, the construction of Chirk Castle began around 1295 during the reign of the conquering Edward I in order to subdue the last princes of Wales. Built on an outcrop above the meeting point of the Rivers Dee and Ceiriog, the castle, with its imposing silhouette, was a brooding statement of English intent in these disputed lands.

Chirk Castle was purchased by grocer, sugar trader and privateer Sir Thomas Myddelton in 1595, and was inherited through the Myddelton family line. With over 700 years of history, and as the last castle from this period still lived in today, Chirk Castle has lavish interiors and a beautiful and eclectic collection. The interior includes a 17th-century Long Gallery, grand parade of three 18th-century State Rooms with rich furniture, paintings and tapestries, the unique servants' hall, and the Chapel Music room furnished to display Chirk Castle’s connections to high society in the 1920s and 1930s.

The award-winning gardens cover 5.5 acres of manicured lawns, clipped yews, herbaceous borders, beautiful rose, shrub and rock gardens, and the wooded pleasure ground – perfect for a stroll. Don't miss the terrace overlooking the 18th-century ha-ha at the bottom of the garden, with stunning views over the Cheshire and Salop plains.

Powis Castle, built around 1200 as a medieval fortress, sits high on a rock above its world-famous garden. Laid out under the influence of Italian and French styles, the garden is overhung with clipped yews and shelters rare and tender plants. It retains original lead statues and features an orangery on the terraces.

Remodelled and embellished over more than 400 years, Powis reflects the changing ambitions of the Herbert family, who occupied the Castle from the 1570s. Each generation enlisted artists to grow the family’s collection of paintings, sculpture, furniture and tapestries on view throughout the house.

One of the UK’s most significant collections of Indian objects is displayed in the Clive Museum at Powis Castle. As major figures in Britain’s colonial East India Company, Robert Clive and his son Edward (later 1st Earl of Powis) looted many of these objects during their seizure of power in India and Myanmar and violent subsequent rule in the 18th century. Clive wealth amassed through the East India Company remained at Powis, contributing to later modernisation of the Castle and Gardens that transformed Powis to how it exists today.

Hidcote is an Arts and Crafts garden in the north Cotswolds, a stone’s throw from Stratford-upon-Avon. Created by the talented American horticulturist, Major Lawrence Johnston its colourful and intricately designed outdoor ‘rooms’ are always full of surprises. It’s a must-see if you’re on holiday in the Cotswolds.

Explore the maze of narrow paved pathways and discover secret gardens, magnificent vistas and plants that burst with colour. Many of the plants found growing in the garden were collected from Johnston’s many plant hunting trips to far away places. It’s the perfect place if you’re in need of gardening inspiration.

Meander through the intricate gardens and into the Wilderness. This secluded stretch of tall trees is just right for a picnic. Take a glimpse beyond the boundary and see the garden blend effortlessly into the countryside beyond.

Tyntesfield was not intended to be an extravagant statement of wealth, power or politics. Its purpose was simple: to serve as a family home.

Originally a smaller Georgian house, Tyntesfield was transformed into a Gothic Revival masterpiece. Its bespoke architecture reflects the devout Anglo-Catholic beliefs of the Gibbs family. Here they invested their wealth derived from controlling the import of Peruvian ‘guano’ fertiliser.

The garden and estate balance faded beauty and function with an abundance of nature. Flower-filled terraces, an empty lake, extensive woodland, champion trees and a productive kitchen garden give many opportunities for exploration. And with each season you can experience a new side to Tyntesfield.

Dyrham Park was created in the 17th century by William Blathwayt. It is an early example of how a fortune made from empire was invested in a landed estate, transforming Dyrham into one of the most notable stately homes of its age.

The 270-acre (110 hectare) ancient steep and sloping parkland is full of magnificent trees and breathtaking views and space for young explorers to run free, be in nature and tick off challenges on their 50 things list.

Splendid borders, idyllic ponds and a wildflower orchard are all features of the stunning garden which is being sensitively developed as a 21st-century garden with echoes of the past.

Visitors can get a flavour of the life of William Blathwayt in the late 1600s by stepping into the impressive baroque mansion house with its collection of fine art and Dutch Delftware. His years as a diplomat in Europe, and his several colonial and administrative positions in government, helped to hone – and indulge – his increasingly refined taste.

Attingham inspires a sense of beauty, space and awe. The imposing entrance, glimpses of the vast mansion against silhouettes of cedars and expansive parkland, epitomise classical design and Italian influence. Its completeness of survival exemplifies the rise and decline, love and neglect of great country-house estates. Discovering the Berwicks' estate with acres of parkland, miles of walks, the huge organic walled garden, large playfield and welcoming mansion is a full day out.

There’s so much to see and do at Attingham -- whether you’re a family looking for activities, both inside and out, or simply in search of a traditional visit to a historic house and parkland. Full of life and locally loved, there’s something for everyone all year round.

Home to the Anson family since 1624, it was once described as ‘a perfect paradise’. Visit this important piece of Staffordshire's heritage for a full day of discoveries.

The stories of Shugborough are entangled with the exploits and interests of two brothers, Thomas and George Anson. Their fortunes and their social position shaped Shugborough; understanding the origins of their power helps us to interpret the ideas and materials which flooded into Britain throughout the 18th century, furnishing homes, forging fashions and changing culture.

You can explore sweeping parkland, ancient woodland and a landscape peppered with monuments. See seasonal blooms in the formal gardens, or produce in the walled garden. Head over to Park Farm to see Dorking chickens, and say hello to the animals, such as Longhorn cows and Southdown sheep that roam around in the fields.

In the Georgian mansion, unearth unusual treasures and experience life 'below stairs' in the servant's quarters, then enter a world of glamour and royalty in the apartments of Patrick Lichfield, 5th Earl and fashion photographer.

A spectacular Elizabethan house filled with rich furnishings and tapestries preserved by successive generations of the Devonshire family.

It was the formidable 'Bess of Hardwick' who first built the house and developed the surrounding estate in the late 1500s. Her descendants, the Dukes of Devonshire, treasured Hardwick, while lavishing much of their attention and money on nearby Chatsworth. Their success – intimately associated with empire over 400 years and across the globe – preserved Hardwick, and their interests elsewhere saved it from significant alteration.

In the 20th century, keenly aware of Hardwick’s great significance and unique appeal, the Devonshires ensured that this remarkable building was passed on to the nation with its Elizabethan splendour intact.

Blenheim Palace is a country house in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, England. It is the seat of the Dukes of Marlborough and the only non-royal, non-episcopal country house in England to hold the title of palace. The palace, one of England's largest houses, was built between 1705 and 1722, and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

The palace is named after the 1704 Battle of Blenheim, and thus ultimately after Blindheim (also known as Blenheim) in Bavaria. It was originally intended to be a reward to John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough for his military triumphs against the French and Bavarians in the War of the Spanish Succession, culminating in the Battle of Blenheim.

Following the palace's completion, it became the home of the Churchill (later Spencer-Churchill) family for the next 300 years, and various members of the family have wrought changes to the interiors, park and gardens. At the end of the 19th century, the palace was saved from ruin by funds gained from the 9th Duke of Marlborough's marriage to American railroad heiress Consuelo Vanderbilt.

Home to the Anson family since 1624, it was once described as ‘a perfect paradise’. Visit this important piece of Staffordshire's heritage for a full day of discoveries.

The stories of Shugborough are entangled with the exploits and interests of two brothers, Thomas and George Anson. Their fortunes and their social position shaped Shugborough; understanding the origins of their power helps us to interpret the ideas and materials which flooded into Britain throughout the 18th century, furnishing homes, forging fashions and changing culture.

You can explore sweeping parkland, ancient woodland and a landscape peppered with monuments. See seasonal blooms in the formal gardens, or produce in the walled garden. Head over to Park Farm to see Dorking chickens, and say hello to the animals, such as Longhorn cows and Southdown sheep that roam around in the fields.

In the Georgian mansion, unearth unusual treasures and experience life 'below stairs' in the servant's quarters, then enter a world of glamour and royalty in the apartments of Patrick Lichfield, 5th Earl and fashion photographer.

Built by the Bedingfeld family in 1482 as a statement of power and prestige, it remains their family home today. Now peaceful, Oxburgh and the family have endured turbulent times. Through religious persecution, Civil War devastation, near dereliction and threatened demolition, Oxburgh’s story is one of survival.

Step inside to discover the legacy of the 6th Baronet who created much of what you see today, from the Victorian Gothic interiors to the ornate architectural additions that reflect a romantic view of Oxburgh's medieval past. We are learning more about the wealth and labour that created and maintained this home over the last 500 years, including 19th-century links to slavery through the 6th Baronet’s brother.

Outside, the gardens are a mixture of formal and wilderness, with the walled garden and French parterre adding colour and seasonal interest. And for those wanting to explore further, you can follow one of the estate walks through woodland and along the River Gadder - keep your eyes peeled for otters.

Sandringham House is a country house in the parish of Sandringham, Norfolk. It is one of the royal residences of Elizabeth II, whose father, George VI, and grandfather, George V, both died there. The house stands in a 20,000-acre (8,100 ha) estate in the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The house is listed as Grade II and the landscaped gardens, park and woodlands are on the National Register of Historic Parks and Gardens.

The Queen spends about two months each winter on the Sandringham Estate, including the anniversary of her father's death and of her own accession in early February. In 1957, she broadcast her first televised Christmas message from Sandringham. In the 1960s, plans were drawn up to demolish the house and replace it with a modern building, but these were not carried out. In 1977, for her Silver Jubilee, the Queen opened the house and grounds to the public for the first time. Unlike the royal palaces owned by the Crown, such as Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, Sandringham is owned personally by the Queen.

Created by Welsh architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, Portmeirion Village was designed to show how a naturally beautiful site could be developed without spoiling it. Williams-Ellis acquired the site in 1925 and worked to complete his grand vision over the next 50 years, completing the Village as we know it today in 1976.

Clough hoped that his creation would inspire others.

Portmeirion Village provided the backdrop for the 1960's cult classic series, The Prisoner, starring Patrick McGoohan.

Patrick McGoohan not only starred as Number Six, the leading role in The Prisoner, he was also the creator and driving force behind the 17 episode series.

It was probably one of the most influential pieces of television of the 1960's not only in the UK and USA, but also in France, Australia, and many other countries. Even The Beatles were fans!

With intimate corners, sweeping lawns, grand terraces and verdant woodland, there are many gardens in one at Bodnant.

Created over 150 years, with plants collected and brought to Britain from far afield, and the incredible vision of generations of the McLaren family and Puddle head gardeners, this haven of rarity and beauty with a stunning backdrop of the Carneddau mountains of Snowdonia is a delight for the senses.

With year-round colour, the garden can be whatever you want it to be, whether that's a hive of activity or a haven of tranquility and relaxation, this is truly a special place for all ages.

The home of two great families, the Booths and the Greys, the history of Dunham Massey is intimately tied to empire. A fortunate marriage to an East India trading heiress saved the property at the beginning of the 18th century.

Dunham Massey has a connection to Haile Selassie, Emperor of Ethiopia and staunch opponent of fascism. Roger, 10th Earl of Stamford and lifelong friend of the emperor from the time of his visit to Dunham Massey in 1938, flew the Lion of Judah flag from the roof of the house each year to mark Selassie’s birthday.

Dunham is also home to one of Britain’s finest winter gardens, with plenty of scent and colour to delight the senses throughout the year. Unwind on one of the accessible circular walks before warming up with a hearty homemade meal at the Stables Restaurant.

Royal diplomat Thomas Wentworth was outraged when a cousin inherited his family home, Wentworth Woodhouse, in 1695. Known for his ferocious ambition, Wentworth was determined to outdo his rival, creating this spectacular place once known as ‘the finest garden in England’.

Wentworth’s wealth was deeply entwined with empire and the slave trade. He was one of the principal negotiators of the Treaty of Utrecht, which secured Britain as supplier of enslaved Africans to Spanish colonies in the New World.

Despite its turbulent past, this breath-taking landscape now provides space for relaxation, reflection and opportunities for people to enjoy nature and beauty. Today it is South Yorkshire’s only Grade I registered landscape. There are surprises along every avenue, including a castle that is not what it seems.

Generations of the Brownlow family made their mark on Belton, commissioning the finest designers and craftsmen of their age to shape the estate we see today. The house and gardens showcase cutting edge design and innovation, from 17th century sash windows to a cast iron-framed orangery in the Italian Garden, made possible thanks to the Industrial Revolution. The interiors are equally impressive, with a dazzling collection of silver, porcelain, and a world-renowned library.

Today, Belton welcomes new generations to explore the ancient deer park, picnic in the pleasure grounds, or burn off energy in the National Trust's largest outdoor adventure playground.

Home to the Anson family since 1624, it was once described as ‘a perfect paradise’. Visit this important piece of Staffordshire's heritage for a full day of discoveries.

The stories of Shugborough are entangled with the exploits and interests of two brothers, Thomas and George Anson. Their fortunes and their social position shaped Shugborough; understanding the origins of their power helps us to interpret the ideas and materials which flooded into Britain throughout the 18th century, furnishing homes, forging fashions and changing culture.

You can explore sweeping parkland, ancient woodland and a landscape peppered with monuments. See seasonal blooms in the formal gardens, or produce in the walled garden. Head over to Park Farm to see Dorking chickens, and say hello to the animals, such as Longhorn cows and Southdown sheep that roam around in the fields.

In the Georgian mansion, unearth unusual treasures and experience life 'below stairs' in the servant's quarters, then enter a world of glamour and royalty in the apartments of Patrick Lichfield, 5th Earl and fashion photographer.