Castles and historic properties

Peacocks strut across manicured lawns, children shriek with delight as they try to find their way out of fiendishly difficult mazes, and well-kept gardens dazzle year-round at England’s many historic houses and well-preserved castles. Once inside, enthusiastic curators bring history to life with their expert knowledge and often funny insights into the lives, loves, and artefacts of generations of inhabitants. Castle breaks give you more chances of bumping into the present owners of an English castle, many of whom still live in wings of the properties. Just don’t forget to retrieve your children from that maze before you head home.

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Visit Derby's three National Trust treasures

Derby has a trio of National Trust treasures all within a 10 mile radius, so use the city as your base to explore Calke, Sudbury and Kedleston.

Location: Derby, Derbyshire

 

Walk in Roman footsteps at Arbeia Roman Fort

Britain’s biggest and best reconstruction of a Roman fort is the perfect place to immerse yourself in an ancient way of life.

Location: South Shields, South Tyneside

 

Take a tour round Stokesay Court

Stokesay Court was the setting for the mansions scenes in the film version of Ian McEwan's best selling novel, “Atonement”.

Location: Craven Arms, Shropshire

 

Explore the beautiful and curious Rushton Triangular Lodge

This place is proof that in England you'll find architectural treasures in the most unlikely places.

Location: Kettering, Northamptonshire

 

Discover the real Downton Abbey

Re-enact your favourite scenes from the much-loved period drama at Highclere Castle before retiring to London Lodge, a Georgian Grade II-listed gatehouse on-site.

Location: Highclere, Hampshire

 

Barnard Castle in the Durham Dales

A walking architectural history lesson.

Location: Barnard Castle, Durham Dales

 

Explore the home of William Wilberforce

Nestled in Hull’s Historic High Street is the family home of William Wilberforce waiting to be explored.

Location: Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire

 

Take a tour of the Devonshire Collection at Chatsworth

Admire historical artworks in a grand setting at Chatsworth.

Location: Chesterfield, Derbyshire

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