8 of the UK's most impressive stately homes
Fine art collections, magnificent architecture and fascinating histories – it’s no wonder Britain’s stately homes are such a draw for visitors from far and wide. We’re very lucky to have all of these beautiful buildings to discover right here at home.
The UK has a huge variety of stately homes with architectural styles ranging from Elizabethan to Victorian, Palladian and Georgian with the houses often set in spectacular manicured grounds.
There’s Chatsworth House, which has regularly been voted Britain's favourite stately home, Rodmarton Manor, a famous example of Arts and Crafts architecture, and Blickling Hall with its rich Jacobean history. And these are just a few of the hundreds of grand houses available to visit in the UK.
Here at Country Living we love the heritage, history and brilliant stories behind Britain's impressive stately homes. That's why we’ve compiled a list of some of our favourites for you to experience on a day out; or perhaps on a longer tour, where you can treat yourself to a spot of silver-spoon luxury?
From rose gardens and water features to Arts and Crafts furniture and historic libraries, these are Britain’s most outstanding stately homes to visit.
Scone Palace, Perthshire
Perched above the River Tay in Perthshire, Scone Palace's enviable location overlooks the routes northwards to the Highlands and eastwards through Strathmore to the coast.
The dramatic Grampian Mountains make a dramatic backdrop for this red sandstone palace, and across the river you can spot the city of Perth. Scone Palace was once the seat of Scottish parliaments and the crowning place of the Kings of Scots, including both Macbeth and Robert the Bruce.
A visit to Scone Palace wouldn’t be complete without a walk around the surrounding grounds including the stunning open gardens - they are as splendid as the Palace itself.
Country Living has a five-day tour which will take you through the Highlands' most impressive landscapes as you pay a visit to Scone Palace and several more of the country's grandest castles this September.
Hestercombe House, Somerset
Hestercombe House is a Grade II-listed building near Taunton in Somerset with a long and rich history and gardens that date back to medieval times. Originally built in the 16th century, Hestercombe was used as the headquarters of the British 8th Corps during World War II and you can still see the remains of barracks blocks in the grounds.
In the historic stables and cart house building you’ll find Hestercombe’s restaurant The Stables, where you can tuck into seasonally changing dishes which focus on sustainable, local produce.
There’s also a contemporary art gallery if you feel like a touch of modernity with your history.
A visit to Hestercombe is one of the highlights of a five-day Somerset trip with Country Living. Not only will you enjoy a visit to the historic house and a guided tour of the gardens, you’ll also dine in the restaurant with a delicious three-course dinner.
Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh
Set against the dramatic backdrop of Arthur’s Seat, at the end of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, this stately home is the Queen’s official Scottish residence. During summer, the Palace of Holyroodhouse's bird-filled gardens are a riot of colour – no wonder the Queen hosts her annual Garden Party here.
Inside, you’ll find royal treasures and thrones, Mary Queen of Scots’ elaborate private chambers, portraits of real and legendary kings of Scotland in the Great Gallery, French and Flemish tapestries in the State Apartments, and the shining silver banqueting service in the Royal Dining Room.
Osborne House, Isle of Wight
Osborne House was Queen Victoria’s favourite palace – a grand holiday home she’d visit with Prince Albert, that boasts the most impressive formal gardens on the Isle of Wight. "It is impossible to imagine a prettier spot," Victoria said of the house, and we’re sure you’ll agree with her as you wander through the beautifully decorated state rooms in this palatial house.
You can visit Victoria and Albert’s bathing beach and admire their children’s cottage, before stepping inside to explore the sumptuous ground floor state rooms, with their ornate architecture, furnishings and fine art collection.
On Country Living's tour of the Isle of Wight’s best gardens, you can explore the grounds of Osborne House with Christine Walkden and the stately home's head gardener, as well as enjoy lunch in the Terrace Restaurant and a tour of the house.
Sandringham Estate, Norfolk
The much-loved family retreat of Her Majesty the Queen, Sandringham House is bordered by around 60 acres of formal gardens, home to rare and unusual trees, tranquil lakes and unique water gardens. Inside are fabulous collections of family portraits by leading painters.
Sit back and admire the Estate over a cup of tea and fresh Norfolk produce in the Sandringham Cafe, or for those feeling more energetic, there are plenty of opportunities to discover local wildlife on the nature trails.
On a Country Living tour of Norfolk, you can enjoy a rare opportunity to tour Sandringham Estate with former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond, who'll share her stories about the family and the history of this magnificent country manor while you wander through its halls.
Rodmarton Manor, Gloucestershire
Rodmarton Manor is a joy to explore, with plenty of spots to sit and admire the view from the gardens. As well as delicate roses flowering throughout the summer, there is some amusing topiary to keep an eye out for.
What’s more, this Cotswolds manor reflects the area’s Arts and Crafts Movement history. Rodmarton Manor’s builder Ernest Barnsley was a keen follower of this artistic trend, which emphasised the importance of making things by hand, and you can admire high-quality antique furniture inside the charming house.
PLACES TO STAY IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE
Chatsworth House, Derbyshire
One of Derbyshire’s finest properties, Chatsworth House is full of history, holding Mary Queen of Scots as a prisoner on various occasions at the request of Queen Elizabeth I. There are over 25 rooms to explore on your visit, including the Painted Hall, State Rooms and Sculpture Gallery.
You can go on a guided tour of the masterpieces in the company of Flog It!’s Paul Martin, who films at Chatsworth regularly and knows its history inside out. Paul says: “Join me as we discover the treasures of Chatsworth House. Then off to an antiques market to go bargain hunting… and put that newfound knowledge to the test!"
Deene Park, Northamptonshire
Deene Park is a historical house that’s been occupied by the Brudenell family since 1514. The family developed Deene Park from a medieval manor house into the Tudor and Georgian mansion you’ll see today, and it very much remains a family home.
On a tour of the house you’ll be able to visit several different rooms - each with its own style and history - including a tapestry room, drawing room, bow room and dining room.
On Country Living’s trip to the Midlands, you’ll dine in the elegant dining room at Deene Park in the company of current owners of the house, Mr and Mrs Brudenell. You’ll also have a private guided tour, a talk from historian Dr. Lucy Worsley and a Q&A.
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