Country houses
Osborne House, Isle of Wight: What to see and do
Feel a sense of regal history in the sumptuous rooms and stunning parkland of Osborne House, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s much-loved summer retreat
Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Northumberland: What to see and do
A grand day out: Explore the medieval splendour of Belsay Castle, admire the Greek Revival architecture of Belsay Hall, and stroll through the enchanting gardens
Cragside walk, Northumberland
Towering trees thick with colour, lakes and brooks criss-crossed by bridges, and a fantastical country mansion – enter the watery world of Cragside, an enchanting estate dreamt up by an ambitious inventor.
Walk: Balmoral, Aberdeenshire
Walk the woodland trails and loch-side paths of Scotland’s splendid Balmoral Estate, cherished by the royal family and hikers alike
Walk: Sandringham, Norfolk
This beloved private home of Her Majesty the Queen is the perfect blend of woods and parkland for a country walk
Day out: Shibden Hall, West Yorkshire
Inspired by a true story, Gentleman Jack tells a tale of hidden love in a 600-year-old medieval house on the outskirts of Halifax
Best country houses to visit in the UK this Christmas
From majestic castles to grand country houses, here is a selection of the best country houses to visit in the UK this Christmas.
Day out: Margam Country Park, Neath Port Talbot, Wales
Rich in fascinating history, Margam Country Park offers a complete day out with wild walks, ruins, playgrounds and activities for all
Day out: Rode Hall and Gardens, Cheshire
Wander through an enchanting bluebell woodland in the grounds of an old Georgian Hall
Day out: Pollok House, Glasgow
Mince pies, fairytales, pantomime performances and a fantastical grandfather clock add a touch of magic to this magnificent stately home
Walk: Dinefwr Park and Newton House, Carmarthenshire
Discover festive Welsh traditions, a turreted country house and frost-sparkling parkland on the western fringes of the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons)
Walk: Haddon Hall, Derbyshire
Roaring fires, glimmering lights and verdant garlands transform the austere atmosphere of this ancient manor house and its stern fortifications into a place of warmth and cheerful celebration
Downton Abbey style retreats to stay in the British countryside
One of Britain’s favourite period dramas, Downton Abbey, hit the big screens this month. Here is your chance to live like a lady or lord of the manor with our selection of the best country houses for a weekend break or autumn holiday across the UK.
British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens: why is he famous and where can you see his work?
One of Britain’s greatest architects, Edwin Lutyens changed the face of English country houses and gardens. In our expert guide we celebrate his life and work, including the best sites to visit to see his homes and gardens.
Tudor mega-mansions: the 10 best to visit
Historian Dr Suzannah Lipscomb names the most jaw-dropping ‘prodigy houses’ to be found in the British countryside.
Guide to the best country houses in the Cotswolds
Built from honey-coloured stone amid tranquil green valleys, the historic houses of these pretty rolling hills make enchanting places to visit. Our expert guide on the best country houses to visit in the Cotwolds and history of the area
