These are only some of the wonderful country
houses you can visit in England. I'll be adding more as
time and my three-fingered typing style permits. You can take it as
a given that most Country Houses, (sometimes called historic houses or, more often, stately homes),
have extensive collections of art, furniture, and paintings. Those
that are exceptional or have works of particular interest have been
noted. Many country houses are members of heritage organisations such as the National Trust or the Historic Houses Association, and a membership in either organisation usually allows free entry - a considerable savings if you plan on visiting multiple houses.
North Americans please take note : Many of these houses are
only open afternoons. Why? Often because they are still family homes,
or, as a means to preserve the sensitive contents from too much traffic
and exposure to light. If a favorite house of yours has been omitted,
it was probably because it had restricted opening hours; I
have selected those houses which are open more frequently, to minimize
the possibility that you will be disappointed. For optimal peace of
mind, please visit the official website, phone or check with a local tourist information centre.
Featured Historic House
Chavenage House Tetbury, Gloucestershire, England A sprawling Elizabethan country house of grey Cotswold stone. See the chamber where Oliver Cromwell slept when he visited here with General Ireton in 1648. The interior rooms feature historic tapestries, Cromwellian relics, and fine period furnishings. ... more
Hudsons
Historic Houses and Gardens - HUDSONS is the definitive
annual guide to heritage property in Britain. As the British
Tourist Authority called Hudson's the "bible" of the
stately house visitor to Britain. The website provides a gateway
to these properties and also indicates which are available not
just for visiting but also for special events, weddings,and
accommodation. It incorporates all categories of ownership be
it National Trust, private or public.
Free entry to National Trust properties throughout England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, plus discounted admission to National Trust for Scotand properties
