Genealogy Forum UK

Thought it might be an idea to have a thread to add all those
Stately Homes that we feel are worthy of a visit.

For a good idea of what life was like below stairs in a large house:

Erdigg, Wrexham.
They have a large collection of portraits (both photographic and painted), and audio recordings about life in service.
That apart the house and grounds are great, and in my opinion it's one of the best National Trust properties.

It's only the gardens, but well worth a visit.

Bodnant Gardens, Aberconwy (I think, up the river Conwy from the town of Conwy, North Wales). It's on the side of a hill, and even when packed it seems tranquil. They also have a nursery to buy plants from.

been to chatsworth and longlet both worth a visit

Attingham Park, near Shrewsbury is lovely. Theres a wonderful collection of silver, and lovely walks in the park.

The Shuttleworth Collection, Aircraft Museum, Old Warden Aerodrome, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire
http://www.aviationmuseum.eu/World/Euro ... ection.htm

Also the Swiss Garden, Biggleswade
http://www.britainsfinest.co.uk/gardens ... 001070SWIA

Our local one is Stourhead, fabulous gardens, lot's of other walks and good local hostelries, we've not done the house as it's not particularly wheelchair friendly.
Also there's Longleat, lots to do but I'm somewhat ambivalent about the Marquis' attitude to employment, tenants, neighbours etc. so won't go there.

In fact this part of the world is overrun with amazing things to see, from pre-history through to the modern day, Stonehenge, Iron Age Forts, Bath, Salisbury, Montacute etc. etc.

I find that Hardwick Hall has great Elizabethan charms - something quite special and unique. It's in Derbyshire. The embroideries are amazing!

If you are interested in William Morris, then Wightwick Manor near Wolverhampton is interesting.

If you are up in Tyneside well worth a trip to Seaton Delaval Hall - National Trust. declared interest I am a guide there. Fascinating place with a mix of all sorts and especially the Gay Delavals....

http://www.guardian.co.uk/artanddesign/interactive/2011/nov/06/360-degree-image-seaton-delaval-hall