The Stately Homes of Middle England
We explore five of the countries finest heritage sites located in the glorious countryside of the Midlands.
Doddington Hall - Lincolnshire
A great Elizabethan jewel, Doddington Hall in Lincolnshire stand proudly surrounded by delightful symmetrical gardens and lush parkland. The house has never been sold in its nearly 600 year history, being passed down through multiple families to the current occupants, the Birch family. Doddington’s interiors, art collection and wonderful gardens are enough of a reason to visit, but the hall also has an award winning farm shop and dining options, not to mention a wine shop, country clothing store and much more.
Burghley House - Lincolnshire
Perhaps the finest Elizabethan house in the world, Burghley House, once home to Lord Burghley - Elizabeth II’s chief minister, is an architectural feast for the eyes. With dazzling interiors from across the centuries, a Capability Brown deer Park and manicured gardens, Burghley is one of the finest examples of the English country house. Visitors to Burghley can also expect a wide variety of shopping & dining options, events throughout the year, including the annual horse trials, opera in the gardens, classic car rallies and their renowned battle proms.
Belvoir Castle - Leicestershire
Sitting proudly above it’s Capability Brown parkland stands Belvoir Castle, home to gorgeous regency interiors, and Italianate gardens, as well as a vast array of events, from the castle being dressed for Christmas, and charity boxing matches, their is plenty to do at Belvoir. Any visit should also take in Belvoir’s unique retail experience: The Engine Yard, home to local artisans, and fine dining facilities. Read our ultimate guide to Belvoir Castle here.
Chatsworth - Derbyshire
The legendary Chatsworth House in Derbyshire, known as the ‘Palace of the Peaks’ has occupied a position as one of Britain’s greatest heritage sites & tourist destinations for decades. Home to an incredible collection of art, stunning vistas & gardens and gold leaf windows, with that iconic facade that has graced our screens in many great period dramas, Chatsworth holds an unrivalled position as a one of the UK’s greatest treasures. A visit to Chatsworth must take in its breath taking interiors, a visit to its famous farm shop set up by Debo Duchess of Devonshire and enjoy one of their many fascinating events including exhibitions, farm visits and light shows, not to mention their legendary Christmas.
Rockingham Castle - Rutland
Rockingham Castle is a fascinating architectural specimen, formerly a motte & Bailey castle, the structure now resembles a grand medieval home with multiple additions & upgrades made throughout its nearly 1000 year history. The castles gardens sit beneath the original motte and are laid out in the traditional medieval & Tudor style, transporting you back in time to the castle’s heyday. There is also plenty to entertain you away from the breath taking castle & gardens, including numerous events throughout the year from jousting & music concerts to theatre productions and food festivals.
Warwick Castle - Warwickshire
Sitting proudly on the banks of the River Avon sits the legendary battlements of Warwicks castle, once home to the powerful Earls of Warwick and ‘Warwick the King Maker’ who’s descedants have been at the centre of British life for centuries. Visit their home and discover tales of torture in its dungeons, explore its ornate state apartments and pleasing gardens, walk its battlements and watch a real trebuchet fired beneath the castle. For any medieval enthusiast, Warwick Castle is a must visit.