The UK has a huge variety of stunning historic houses, castles and gardens which make the perfect destination for a day trip while on holiday. Here are a few of our favourites, whether you’re enjoying a break in England, Scotland, or Wales.
Holker Hall & Gardens
This stately Lakeland home is set in the Cumbrian countryside not far from lovely Morecambe Bay, the coastal town of Grange-over-Sands, and the historic village of Cartmel. Situated within 200 acres of gorgeous gardens and wild woodlands, the family home of Holker Hall has been passed down from generation to generation.
A visit here is a perfect opportunity to explore this gorgeous 16th-century house, which has been worked on over the centuries by many noted architects. Experience the elegant interiors, which are replete with antique furniture and art, without ropes and barriers in the way.
The grounds of the hall are also spectacular, covering around 23 acres of both formal gardens and beautiful woodlands. Standout features include the Great Lime, a vast lime tree which is one of the largest in the country, and the Holker Labyrinth.
If you’d like to pay a visit to Holker Hall and Gardens, Lake District Holiday Park is a great place to stay just a 15-minute drive away. This fantastic Lake District holiday destination is situated a couple of miles from the southern tip of Windermere, England’s largest lake, and is ideal for exploring all the attractions of this amazing national park.
Dunrobin Castle
Dunrobin Castle is the northernmost of Scotland’s stately homes, situated on the coast of the Moray Firth in the Sutherland region of the Highlands. This incredible building is likely not what you’d expect from a Scottish castle, with elegant conical spires giving it the appearance of something out of a fairytale. With 189 rooms, the castle has been home to the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland all the way back to the 13th century, with the history evident as you explore.
The beautiful, varied formal gardens are truly spectacular, and are only made more beautiful by the backdrop of the Moray Firth and the distant Cairngorms. Admission prices also get you access to daily falconry demonstrations including golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and other amazing birds of prey.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in the unspoilt Sutherland area of Scotland, we offer a range of superb accommodation in and around the historic seaside town of Dornoch. Enjoy a stay in a cosy cottage, contemporary apartment, or other superb holiday home, whatever suits your needs.
Plas yn Rhiw
More modest than the other entries on this list but no less charming, this Tudor/Georgian-styled 17th-century manor house is located on the Llŷn Peninsula in Wales and enjoys striking sea views out across Porth Neigwl and the waters of Cardigan Bay.
Take a wander around this fascinating house, which is now owned by the National Trust and staffed by knowledgeable volunteers, and learn all about its fascinating history. The sheltered formal gardens are almost an acre in size, with 150 acres of surrounding woodland that you’re also free to explore.
Holiday accommodation in the UK
These stunning historic houses, castles, and gardens are just a small selection of the amazing heritage locations available to visit all across the UK. Wherever you’re planning to escape to, you’re sure to find that we have some superb UK holiday accommodation on offer.
