Yorkshire is such a wonderful place to explore, and these historic houses and gardens are some of the best attractions in the county! Here are 5 of the best stately homes you can visit in Yorkshire.
Yorkshire truly lives up to its nickname as God’s county with stunning landscapes like the Yorkshire Dales, bustling cities like Leeds, Hull, and York, and picturesque beach towns like Whitby and Scarborough. But your visit will only be complete with exploring the magnificent country houses and famous gardens of Yorkshire. To help you plan your trip, here’s a selection of stately houses in Yorkshire you can visit.
Allerton Castle
Raved about by photographers as the most beautiful place they photograph weddings, Allerton Castle is a magnificent example of Gothic revival architecture and an incredible venue for weddings and events. Initially built by the esteemed Lord Mowbray, Segrave and Stourton in the 1840s, this stately home is a true testament to the luxury and sophistication of the early modern aristocracy. It oozes timeless charm, and its dramatic setting has made it a popular choice for TV and film productions.
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You can visit the estate and enjoy a guided tour from Easter until the end of October; the guides are friendly and knowledgeable. It’s a lovely opportunity to explore its stunning grounds. There is plenty of parking onsite, toilets inside, and you can purchase coffee and snacks in the ballroom. Additionally, the estate is available to hire for private events and special occasions all year round. Whether planning a wedding, corporate retreat, or any other type of celebration, the estate provides a beautiful and unforgettable backdrop for your special day.
Brockfield Hall
This stunning property is just six miles from York, so a fantastic visit if you’re staying in the city. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the early 1800s. Designed by Peter Atkinson, a partner of John Carr of York, the entrance hall boasts a beautiful, cantilevered staircase that will take your breath away. Brockfield Hall has a rich history; built by Benjamin Agar in 1799. It was later purchased by Lord Martin Fitzalan Howard in 1951 and is now the family home of his grandson. The house is filled with interesting portraits and some of the finest English furniture you’ll ever see.
Art lovers will be pleased to know that Brockfield Hall is home to the most extensive collection of paintings by the Staithes Group, Yorkshire’s impressionist artists. If you’re planning a visit, mark your calendar for August, when Brockfield Hall is open to the public.
Kiplin Hall
This beautiful country home belonged to George Calvert, the founder of Maryland and 1st Lord Baltimore. Today, the award-winning Hall is presented as a Victorian residence, filled with prize possessions from its previous owners. Visitors love the various furniture collections, family portraits, and paintings by renowned artists such as Joachim Beuckelaer, Luca Carlevarijs, Angelica Kauffman, Lady Waterford, and G.F. Watts. You’ll also find an abundance of Arts and Crafts pieces.
One of the most interesting aspects of Kiplin Hall is its WW2 Kitchen and Bathroom, which remain intact from when the RAF took over the estate. The restoration of the gardens began in 2007 and has continued yearly, with new areas added each time.
When you’re ready for a break, head to the oak-panelled Tea Room, where you can sample delicious treats from the produce grown in their fabulous Walled Garden. There are also woodland and lakeside walks, parkland, a children’s play ship, a natural play area, garden games, and even a dipping pond.
Markenfield Hall
Situated in the Yorkshire countryside, Markenfield Hall is a medieval manor house and one of the few remaining moated houses preserved in their original form. Despite its bloody history, Markenfield Hall exudes a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere. Although it’s only open for short periods, there are opportunities to visit throughout the year, individually or as a group. The personal touch of the small staff ensures that you feel at home during your visit. You’ll even be served tea and cake following a tour.
While Markenfield Hall may not have all the modern amenities, it’s the perfect place to escape daily life. The limited mobile reception and lack of Wi-Fi mean you can relax and disconnect. You’ll feel as if you belong here, visiting the home of the Grantley family, whose generations have owned Markenfield for 500 years.
Castle Howard
Nestled within a sprawling 1000-acre parkland, Castle Howard boasts an impressive collection of historical artefacts carefully curated over generations by the Howard family. You’ll find serene lakes, elegant fountains, and beautiful temples scattered throughout the grounds.
The construction of Castle Howard began in 1699 under the guidance of Charles Howard, the 3rd Earl of Carlisle. Still, it was not completed until nearly a century later under the 4th Earl, Henry Howard. Despite changes to the original Baroque design, Castle Howard remains a stunning example of ornate extravagance, with cherubs, coronets, urns, and cyphers adorning every corner. The central dome is truly a sight to behold!
Throughout the year, Castle Howard offers a variety of special events for visitors to enjoy, including musical performances, behind-the-scenes tours, and engaging contemporary and historical exhibitions. With over 145 rooms to explore, including a striking chapel. And outside the house, you’ll discover an array of beautiful gardens, including a walled garden, a woodland garden, and a grand adventure playground. The mausoleum, which stands an impressive 90 feet tall and features 20 decorative pillars, serves as the final resting place for members of the Howard family and is a stunning sight, even from a distance.
Visiting the stately homes in Yorkshire is a must-do for anyone who wants to experience the grandeur of the past. Each house has its unique story to learn about, and the beauty of the architecture, gardens, and interiors is breathtaking. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for an enjoyable day out, these stately homes will impress. Let us know if you have visited our suggestions in the comments.
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