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Stately home filming locations in Britain

They’re the breathtaking backdrops to your favourite period dramas and historical fantasies: now come and experience Britain’s star stately homes for yourself.
Press Escape while tabbing through the list to skip to the next section

Photo by: VisitBritain/Anastasia Ustenikova

Location: Highclere, England

A food truck, parasols and direction signs in the ground of a castle
Highclere Castle

One of Britain’s grandest stately homes, the beautiful Chatsworth House sits in a 400-hectare (1,000-acre) park in the Peak District.

Visit Chatsworth House

Photo by: VisitBritain

Location: Bakewell, England

Group of people walking down stairs under a painted ceiling
Chatsworth House

Explore this Tudor treasure, as seen in the 2024 series The Gentlemen, with its spellbinding house, gardens and park, from March to September.

Be charmed by Knebworth House

Photo by: Visit Hertfordshire/ Rebecca Douglas

Location: Knebworth, England

Two young men walk in the grounds of a heritage house
Knebworth House

An Elizabethan Grade I pile on the edge of the Peak District surrounded by 1,400 acres of land, gardens and deer park.

Learn more about Lyme

Photo by: katabaticmalamutes

Location: Disley, England

A lady and dog sitting on a bench outside at Lyme Park, Cheshire
Lyme

Head into history at this northern castle for hidden treasures and regal life.

Discover regal life at Castle Howard

Photo by: Castle Howard

Location: Castle Howard, England

Historic mansion surrounded by trees and garden
Castle Howard

A quirky country pile on the site of a former 13th-century nunnery and the set for Pride and Prejudice and Harry Potter.

Learn more about Lacock Abbey

Photo by: ayshee5_

Location: Lacock, England

Lacock Abbey, Wiltshire
Lacock Abbey, Wiltshire

Britain’s greatest palace is in the Cotswolds – the magnificent Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Winston Churchill.

Explore Blenheim Palace

Photo by: VisitBritain/Marina Comes

Location: Blenheim, England

Woman walking through the formal gardens in front of a palace
Blenheim Palace

Whatever the season, there’s always something to see at Burghley, from its splendid State Rooms to its two gardens.

Discover the treasures of Burghley House and Gardens

Photo by: Destination Lincolnshire/ Tony Pleavin

Location: Stamford, England

A man and a woman with a tour guide in an ornate room with paintings
Burghley House and Gardens

This spectacular home starred as Princess Mary’s residence in the Downton Abbey film – and now hosts private tours and festivals.

Plan your trip to Harewood House

Photo by: VisitBritain/Thomas Heaton

Location: Harewood, England

A formal garden with statues and low hedges in front of a stately house
Harewood House

This magnificent medieval and Tudor residence hosts live music, seasonal festivals, craft markets and more.

Get to know Haddon Hall

Photo by: Haddon Hall

Location: Bakewell, England

Haddon Hall
Haddon Hall

Whatever the season, Arley Hall has plenty of charm, from winter light trails to outdoor theatre.

Discover Arley Hall & Gardens

Photo by: takemyheart.somewhere

Location: Northwich, England

Arley Hall, Cheshire
Arley Hall & Gardens

A period drama lover's paradise, Wilton House has set the scene for Bridgerton, The Crown and Emma.

Explore the state rooms at Wilton House

Photo by: kgbrott

Location: Salisbury, England

View of Wilton House and garden
Wilton House

You might recognise this Tudor house: it has appeared in Bridgerton, Midsomer Murders and more.

What’s on at Dorney Court

Photo by: Dorney Court

Location: Windsor, England

Tall plants in the gardens of Dorney Court, Windsor
Dorney Court

Immortalised in films such as Batman Begins and Paddington 2, Hatfield House is a sparkling example of Jacobean architecture.

Step into history at Hatfield House

Photo by: VisitBritain/Bugo Echem

Location: Hatfield, England

Man, woman and child playing in formal garden of large country house
Hatfield House, Park and Gardens

Outlander star Linlithgow Palace offers a fascinating window into Scottish royal life.

Head to Linlithgow Palace

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Linlithgow, Scotland

Exterior of a church and partly ruined castle near a town overlooking a lake with swans in winter.
Linlithgow Palace

Join a guided tour of this Palladian property and discover its TV links.

Go behind the scenes at Newhailes House

Photo by: VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Location: Musselburgh, Scotland

Exterior of a light-brick stately home with staircase entrance, framed by foliage.
Newhailes House

At the heart of a 6,500-acre estate, peppered with wild deer, is the 17th-century Hopetoun House.

Explore Hopetoun House

Photo by: VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Location: Queensferry, Scotland

An ornate drawing room in a stately home with yellow walls, a red rug and other luxurious fittings.
Hopetoun House

Free to visit, Callendar House is a treat to explore both inside and out.

Visit Callendar House

Photo by: Visit Falkirk

Location: Falkirk, Scotland

Exterior of a French-style grey mansion with turrets, with daffodils in the foreground.
Callendar House

An action-packed day out with bike hire, boat rides, treetop rope courses, walled gardens and a vineyard – all before you even get inside the 18th-century house.

Take a guided tour of Holkham Hall

Photo by: Visit East of England

Location: Holkham, England

The outdoor water fountain at Holkham Hall
Holkham Hall

Wander around the magnificent Petworth House, with its art treasures and 700-acre deer park in the South Downs.

Potter around Petworth House

Photo by: National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Location: Petworth, England

Petworth House and Park
Petworth House

This Elizabethan manor house has starred in Wolf Hall and inspired Wallace & Gromit’s The Curse of the Were-Rabbit.

Visit Montacute House

Photo by: National Trust Images/Steve Sayers

Location: Montacute, England

Large historic mansion with many windows, manicured shrubs, stone wall and green lawn, framed by tree branches.
Montacute House

Star of 2026’s Madfabulous, Plas Newydd is one of the jewels in Anglesey’s crown.

Visit Plas Newydd

Photo by: National Trust Images/Paul Harris

Location: Llanddaniel Fab, Wales

A group sits on a bench overlooking a historic stone building, lake, green lawn, trees, and distant hills under a blue sky with clouds.
Plas Newydd

Step into a time capsule with a tour of this well-preserved English stately home and ground.

Visit Boughton House

Photo by: Boughton House

Location: Kettering, England

Large historic building with many windows, manicured lawn, and colorful flower garden under a blue sky.
Boughton House

Photo by: VisitBritain/Anastasia Ustenikova

Location: Highclere, England

A food truck, parasols and direction signs in the ground of a castle
Highclere Castle

One of Britain’s grandest stately homes, the beautiful Chatsworth House sits in a 400-hectare (1,000-acre) park in the Peak District.

Visit Chatsworth House

Photo by: VisitBritain

Location: Bakewell, England

Group of people walking down stairs under a painted ceiling
Chatsworth House

Explore this Tudor treasure, as seen in the 2024 series The Gentlemen, with its spellbinding house, gardens and park, from March to September.

Be charmed by Knebworth House

Photo by: Visit Hertfordshire/ Rebecca Douglas

Location: Knebworth, England

Two young men walk in the grounds of a heritage house
Knebworth House

An Elizabethan Grade I pile on the edge of the Peak District surrounded by 1,400 acres of land, gardens and deer park.

Learn more about Lyme

Photo by: katabaticmalamutes

Location: Disley, England

A lady and dog sitting on a bench outside at Lyme Park, Cheshire
Lyme

Head into history at this northern castle for hidden treasures and regal life.

Discover regal life at Castle Howard

Photo by: Castle Howard

Location: Castle Howard, England

Historic mansion surrounded by trees and garden
Castle Howard

A quirky country pile on the site of a former 13th-century nunnery and the set for Pride and Prejudice and Harry Potter.

Learn more about Lacock Abbey

Photo by: ayshee5_

Location: Lacock, England

Lacock Abbey, Wiltshire
Lacock Abbey, Wiltshire

Britain’s greatest palace is in the Cotswolds – the magnificent Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Winston Churchill.

Explore Blenheim Palace

Photo by: VisitBritain/Marina Comes

Location: Blenheim, England

Woman walking through the formal gardens in front of a palace
Blenheim Palace

Whatever the season, there’s always something to see at Burghley, from its splendid State Rooms to its two gardens.

Discover the treasures of Burghley House and Gardens

Photo by: Destination Lincolnshire/ Tony Pleavin

Location: Stamford, England

A man and a woman with a tour guide in an ornate room with paintings
Burghley House and Gardens

This spectacular home starred as Princess Mary’s residence in the Downton Abbey film – and now hosts private tours and festivals.

Plan your trip to Harewood House

Photo by: VisitBritain/Thomas Heaton

Location: Harewood, England

A formal garden with statues and low hedges in front of a stately house
Harewood House

This magnificent medieval and Tudor residence hosts live music, seasonal festivals, craft markets and more.

Get to know Haddon Hall

Photo by: Haddon Hall

Location: Bakewell, England

Haddon Hall
Haddon Hall

Whatever the season, Arley Hall has plenty of charm, from winter light trails to outdoor theatre.

Discover Arley Hall & Gardens

Photo by: takemyheart.somewhere

Location: Northwich, England

Arley Hall, Cheshire
Arley Hall & Gardens

A period drama lover's paradise, Wilton House has set the scene for Bridgerton, The Crown and Emma.

Explore the state rooms at Wilton House

Photo by: kgbrott

Location: Salisbury, England

View of Wilton House and garden
Wilton House

You might recognise this Tudor house: it has appeared in Bridgerton, Midsomer Murders and more.

What’s on at Dorney Court

Photo by: Dorney Court

Location: Windsor, England

Tall plants in the gardens of Dorney Court, Windsor
Dorney Court

Immortalised in films such as Batman Begins and Paddington 2, Hatfield House is a sparkling example of Jacobean architecture.

Step into history at Hatfield House

Photo by: VisitBritain/Bugo Echem

Location: Hatfield, England

Man, woman and child playing in formal garden of large country house
Hatfield House, Park and Gardens

Outlander star Linlithgow Palace offers a fascinating window into Scottish royal life.

Head to Linlithgow Palace

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Linlithgow, Scotland

Exterior of a church and partly ruined castle near a town overlooking a lake with swans in winter.
Linlithgow Palace

Join a guided tour of this Palladian property and discover its TV links.

Go behind the scenes at Newhailes House

Photo by: VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Location: Musselburgh, Scotland

Exterior of a light-brick stately home with staircase entrance, framed by foliage.
Newhailes House

At the heart of a 6,500-acre estate, peppered with wild deer, is the 17th-century Hopetoun House.

Explore Hopetoun House

Photo by: VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Location: Queensferry, Scotland

An ornate drawing room in a stately home with yellow walls, a red rug and other luxurious fittings.
Hopetoun House

Free to visit, Callendar House is a treat to explore both inside and out.

Visit Callendar House

Photo by: Visit Falkirk

Location: Falkirk, Scotland

Exterior of a French-style grey mansion with turrets, with daffodils in the foreground.
Callendar House

An action-packed day out with bike hire, boat rides, treetop rope courses, walled gardens and a vineyard – all before you even get inside the 18th-century house.

Take a guided tour of Holkham Hall

Photo by: Visit East of England

Location: Holkham, England

The outdoor water fountain at Holkham Hall
Holkham Hall

Wander around the magnificent Petworth House, with its art treasures and 700-acre deer park in the South Downs.

Potter around Petworth House

Photo by: National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Location: Petworth, England

Petworth House and Park
Petworth House

This Elizabethan manor house has starred in Wolf Hall and inspired Wallace & Gromit’s The Curse of the Were-Rabbit.

Visit Montacute House

Photo by: National Trust Images/Steve Sayers

Location: Montacute, England

Large historic mansion with many windows, manicured shrubs, stone wall and green lawn, framed by tree branches.
Montacute House

Star of 2026’s Madfabulous, Plas Newydd is one of the jewels in Anglesey’s crown.

Visit Plas Newydd

Photo by: National Trust Images/Paul Harris

Location: Llanddaniel Fab, Wales

A group sits on a bench overlooking a historic stone building, lake, green lawn, trees, and distant hills under a blue sky with clouds.
Plas Newydd

Step into a time capsule with a tour of this well-preserved English stately home and ground.

Visit Boughton House

Photo by: Boughton House

Location: Kettering, England

Large historic building with many windows, manicured lawn, and colorful flower garden under a blue sky.
Boughton House

Filming tours and experiences at Britain’s stately homes

Upstairs, downstairs, behind the scenes: lift the curtain on our starry stately homes with these guided tours immersing you in a real-life film set.

Downton Abbey fans – this one’s for you. Highclere Castle in Hampshire is the real-life star of the show, as you’ll discover on a Real Lives & Film Sets Castle Guided Tour. Your expert guide will share stories from filming and you’ll see where key scenes from the series came to life.  

Cult BBC sitcom Ghosts found its brilliant backdrop at West Horsley Place in Surrey, which doubles as the show’s Button House. The property’s popular Filming tours are your backstage pass – and the best bit is, you’re encouraged to visit dressed as your favourite character. 

A longstanding star of Outlander, Hopetoun House near South Queensferry is well worth making the pilgrimage to from Edinburgh. Every Friday, you can join a dedicated Outlander Guided Tour to get up-close to Hopetoun’s Outlander filming locations, brought to life by your guide.  

Photo by: Highclere Castle LLP

Location: Highclere, England

Large historic castle with ornate towers situated on a vast green lawn, surrounded by trees under a blue sky.

Britain’s better-known stately homes

  • Castle Howard, England

    A remarkable pile that’s been in the Howard family for more than 300 years.

    Photo by: Castle Howard/Nick Howard

    Location: Castle Howard, England

    Large country house surrounded by trees with stream in the foreground
  • Longleat, England

    Impressive Elizabethan mansion with landscaped gardens in the grounds of the famous Longleat Safari Park.

    Photo by: liammundayphotography

    Location: Longleat, England

    Longleat House, Wiltshire
  • Rothesay, Scotland

    Victorian innovation strikes through this house, from the world’s first heated pool to the first passenger lift.

    Photo by: Mount Stuart Trust

    Location: Mount Stuart, Scotland

    Inside a large marble hall and stained glass windows of a stately mansion.
  • Lacock, England

    A quirky country pile on the site of a former 13th-century nunnery and the set for Pride and Prejudice and Harry Potter.

    Photo by: ayshee5_

    Location: Lacock, England

    Lacock Abbey, Wiltshire
  • Disley, England

    An Elizabethan Grade I pile on the edge of the Peak District surrounded by 1,400 acres of land, gardens and deer park.

    Photo by: katabaticmalamutes

    Location: Disley, England

    A lady and dog sitting on a bench outside at Lyme Park, Cheshire
  • Rotherham, England

    Part baroque, part Georgian, this South Yorkshire gem has the longest facade of any stately home in Britain.

    Photo by: wentworth_woodhouse

    Location: Wentworth, England

    Wentworth Woodhouse, South Yorkshire
  • Sandringham, England

    This royal residence is open to visitors, with tours offering afternoon tea, Land Rover safaris and more.

    Photo by: @nuriatravels

    Location: Sandringham, England

    Sandringham Estate
  • Woodstock, England

    Britain’s greatest palace is in the Cotswolds – the magnificent Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Winston Churchill.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Marina Comes

    Location: Blenheim, England

    Woman walking through the formal gardens in front of a palace
  • Bakewell, England

    One of Britain’s grandest stately homes, the beautiful Chatsworth House sits in a 400-hectare (1,000-acre) park in the Peak District.

    Photo by: VisitBritain

    Location: Bakewell, England

    Group of people walking down stairs under a painted ceiling
  • Stamford, England

    Whatever the season, there’s always something to see at Burghley, from its splendid State Rooms to its two gardens.

    Photo by: Destination Lincolnshire/ Tony Pleavin

    Location: Stamford, England

    A man and a woman with a tour guide in an ornate room with paintings

Britain’s lesser-known stately homes

Press Escape while tabbing through the list to skip to the next section

The gothic-style stately home of Scottish author Sir Walter Scott.

Learn more about Abbotsford

Photo by: The Abbotsford Trust

Location: Abbotsford, Scotland

Abbotsford exterior with flower gardens in foreground
Abbotsford, Borders

Set over hundreds of acres of north Wales countryside, with stunning gardens and a 3,000-year-old mummy.

Discover the home and gardens of Bodrhyddan Hall

Photo by: available_weddingvenue

Location: Rhyl, Wales

Aerial view of Bodrhyddan Hall and gardens, Denbighshire, Wales
Bodrhyddan Hall, north Wales

Explore the grand historic house, formal gardens and enchanting woodland playground of Stonor Park.

Find out more about Stonor Park

Photo by: Stonor Park

Location: Stonor, England

View of Stonor Park, Chiltern Hills
Stonor Park, Chiltern Hills

This stately home boasts Regency opulence and a serene alternative to the high-octane Goodwood race track nearby.

Explore Goodwood House and gardens

Photo by: richardpchapman

Location: Westhampnett, England

Outside view of Goodwood House, West Sussex, England
Goodwood House

Enjoy the grandeur of Buscot Park alongside the peaceful gardens and beautifully landscaped grounds.

Explore Buscot Park

Photo by: the_idge

Location: Faringdon, England

Tree-lined path in landscaped garden
Buscot Park

A hidden London gem, filled with landscaped gardens, beautiful interiors and world-class art.

Explore Kenwood House

Photo by: belinda29

Location: London, England

woman in headscarf sitting in front of Kenwood House
Kenwood House

Visit this Elizabethan mansion, home to a beautiful hall, blooming gardens, cycle routes, and a rewilding project. It has also starred on the small screen, too.

Explore Doddington Hall

Photo by: Destination Lincolnshire/ Tony Pleavin

Location: Doddington and Whisby, England

A man and a woman look toward an exhibit in a heritage property
Doddington Hall

Explore the vast estate by cycling or walking, with woodlands and grasslands allowing you to escape into nature.

Explore Blickling Estate

Photo by: National Trust Images/Rob Coleman

Location: Blickling, England

Children climbing on the big plane tree in the garden at Blickling Estate, Norfolk
Blickling Estate

This impressive stately home isn’t just full of history – it has mountain biking, orienteering and golf courses too.

What’s on at Ashton Court Estate

Photo by: Paul Box

Location: Bristol, England

A child riding a bike outside Ashton Court in Bristol
Ashton Court Estate

Discover priceless artworks, exquisite antiques and beautiful grounds at this impressive stately home in Selkirk.

Get to know Bowhill House

Photo by: Euan Myles/Bowhill House

Location: Selkirk, Scotland

Bowhill House, Selkirk, Selkirkshire, Scotland
Bowhill House

This 16th-century manor has starred in the hit TV series Rivals and Poldark.

What’s on at Chavenage House

Photo by: Robert Viglasky Photography/Chavenage House/Cotsowlds Tourism

Location: Tetbury, England

Filming of Poldark, Chavenage House, Tetbury, Gloucestershire
Chavenage House

This spectacular home starred as Princess Mary’s residence in the Downton Abbey film – and now hosts private tours and festivals.

Plan your trip to Harewood House

Photo by: VisitBritain/Thomas Heaton

Location: Harewood, England

A formal garden with statues and low hedges in front of a stately house
Harewood House

This 18th-century house is surrounded by magnificent gardens, wild woodlands and a deer-filled park.

Visit Dunham Massey Hall and Gardens

Photo by: National Trust/Nick Meers

Location: Manchester, England

The Orangery at Dunham Massey, viewed across the lawn from the East side of the hall
Dunham Massey Hall and Gardens

Calling all Batman fans: Welcome to ‘Wayne Manor’, where the Batman movie The Dark Knight Rises was filmed.

Explore Wollaton Hall

Photo by: tomoprice/wollatonhall

Location: Nottingham, England

View of the front of Wollaton Hall
Wollaton Hall

This magnificent medieval and Tudor residence hosts live music, seasonal festivals, craft markets and more.

Get to know Haddon Hall

Photo by: Haddon Hall

Location: Bakewell, England

Haddon Hall
Haddon Hall

Wander around the magnificent Petworth House, with its art treasures and 700-acre deer park in the South Downs.

Potter around Petworth House

Photo by: National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Location: Petworth, England

Petworth House and Park
Petworth House

Visit the last castle to be built in Britain, with the rugged Dartmoor tors that surround it.

Find out more about Castle Drogo

Photo by: National Trust Images/James Dob

Location: Drewsteignton, England

Exterior of Castle Drogo, looking up through the fir trees
Castle Drogo

A period drama lover's paradise, Wilton House has set the scene for Bridgerton, The Crown and Emma.

Explore the state rooms at Wilton House

Photo by: kgbrott

Location: Salisbury, England

View of Wilton House and garden
Wilton House

You might recognise this Tudor house: it has appeared in Bridgerton, Midsomer Murders and more.

What’s on at Dorney Court

Photo by: Dorney Court

Location: Windsor, England

Tall plants in the gardens of Dorney Court, Windsor
Dorney Court

Combining award-winning grounds by Capability Brown with one of the most impressive mansions from Jacobean England, history comes to life at Audley End.

Take a trip into history at Audley End

Photo by: Visit East of England

Location: Audley End, England

An exterior view of Audley End
Audley End

An action-packed day out with bike hire, boat rides, treetop rope courses, walled gardens and a vineyard – all before you even get inside the 18th-century house.

Take a guided tour of Holkham Hall

Photo by: Visit East of England

Location: Holkham, England

The outdoor water fountain at Holkham Hall
Holkham Hall

Whatever the season, Arley Hall has plenty of charm, from winter light trails to outdoor theatre.

Discover Arley Hall & Gardens

Photo by: takemyheart.somewhere

Location: Northwich, England

Arley Hall, Cheshire
Arley Hall & Gardens

Art lovers, the treasures at this French Renaissance-style manor house are not to be missed.

Explore the captivating Waddesdon Manor

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Location: Aylesbury, England

Couple walking outside a stately home
Waddesdon Manor

Explore this Tudor treasure, as seen in the 2024 series The Gentlemen, with its spellbinding house, gardens and park, from March to September.

Be charmed by Knebworth House

Photo by: Visit Hertfordshire/ Rebecca Douglas

Location: Knebworth, England

Two young men walk in the grounds of a heritage house
Knebworth House

Explore the local history collections of Cusworth Hall and don't miss the newly restored walled garden, a treat for all the senses.

Learn something new at Cusworth Hall

Photo by: Drew Carlin/Heritage Doncaster

Location: Doncaster, England

View of a large country house surrounded by trees
Cusworth Hall

Immortalised in films such as Batman Begins and Paddington 2, Hatfield House is a sparkling example of Jacobean architecture.

Step into history at Hatfield House

Photo by: VisitBritain/Bugo Echem

Location: Hatfield, England

Man, woman and child playing in formal garden of large country house
Hatfield House, Park and Gardens

The gothic-style stately home of Scottish author Sir Walter Scott.

Learn more about Abbotsford

Photo by: The Abbotsford Trust

Location: Abbotsford, Scotland

Abbotsford exterior with flower gardens in foreground
Abbotsford, Borders

Set over hundreds of acres of north Wales countryside, with stunning gardens and a 3,000-year-old mummy.

Discover the home and gardens of Bodrhyddan Hall

Photo by: available_weddingvenue

Location: Rhyl, Wales

Aerial view of Bodrhyddan Hall and gardens, Denbighshire, Wales
Bodrhyddan Hall, north Wales

Explore the grand historic house, formal gardens and enchanting woodland playground of Stonor Park.

Find out more about Stonor Park

Photo by: Stonor Park

Location: Stonor, England

View of Stonor Park, Chiltern Hills
Stonor Park, Chiltern Hills

This stately home boasts Regency opulence and a serene alternative to the high-octane Goodwood race track nearby.

Explore Goodwood House and gardens

Photo by: richardpchapman

Location: Westhampnett, England

Outside view of Goodwood House, West Sussex, England
Goodwood House

Enjoy the grandeur of Buscot Park alongside the peaceful gardens and beautifully landscaped grounds.

Explore Buscot Park

Photo by: the_idge

Location: Faringdon, England

Tree-lined path in landscaped garden
Buscot Park

A hidden London gem, filled with landscaped gardens, beautiful interiors and world-class art.

Explore Kenwood House

Photo by: belinda29

Location: London, England

woman in headscarf sitting in front of Kenwood House
Kenwood House

Visit this Elizabethan mansion, home to a beautiful hall, blooming gardens, cycle routes, and a rewilding project. It has also starred on the small screen, too.

Explore Doddington Hall

Photo by: Destination Lincolnshire/ Tony Pleavin

Location: Doddington and Whisby, England

A man and a woman look toward an exhibit in a heritage property
Doddington Hall

Explore the vast estate by cycling or walking, with woodlands and grasslands allowing you to escape into nature.

Explore Blickling Estate

Photo by: National Trust Images/Rob Coleman

Location: Blickling, England

Children climbing on the big plane tree in the garden at Blickling Estate, Norfolk
Blickling Estate

This impressive stately home isn’t just full of history – it has mountain biking, orienteering and golf courses too.

What’s on at Ashton Court Estate

Photo by: Paul Box

Location: Bristol, England

A child riding a bike outside Ashton Court in Bristol
Ashton Court Estate

Discover priceless artworks, exquisite antiques and beautiful grounds at this impressive stately home in Selkirk.

Get to know Bowhill House

Photo by: Euan Myles/Bowhill House

Location: Selkirk, Scotland

Bowhill House, Selkirk, Selkirkshire, Scotland
Bowhill House

This 16th-century manor has starred in the hit TV series Rivals and Poldark.

What’s on at Chavenage House

Photo by: Robert Viglasky Photography/Chavenage House/Cotsowlds Tourism

Location: Tetbury, England

Filming of Poldark, Chavenage House, Tetbury, Gloucestershire
Chavenage House

This spectacular home starred as Princess Mary’s residence in the Downton Abbey film – and now hosts private tours and festivals.

Plan your trip to Harewood House

Photo by: VisitBritain/Thomas Heaton

Location: Harewood, England

A formal garden with statues and low hedges in front of a stately house
Harewood House

This 18th-century house is surrounded by magnificent gardens, wild woodlands and a deer-filled park.

Visit Dunham Massey Hall and Gardens

Photo by: National Trust/Nick Meers

Location: Manchester, England

The Orangery at Dunham Massey, viewed across the lawn from the East side of the hall
Dunham Massey Hall and Gardens

Calling all Batman fans: Welcome to ‘Wayne Manor’, where the Batman movie The Dark Knight Rises was filmed.

Explore Wollaton Hall

Photo by: tomoprice/wollatonhall

Location: Nottingham, England

View of the front of Wollaton Hall
Wollaton Hall

This magnificent medieval and Tudor residence hosts live music, seasonal festivals, craft markets and more.

Get to know Haddon Hall

Photo by: Haddon Hall

Location: Bakewell, England

Haddon Hall
Haddon Hall

Wander around the magnificent Petworth House, with its art treasures and 700-acre deer park in the South Downs.

Potter around Petworth House

Photo by: National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Location: Petworth, England

Petworth House and Park
Petworth House

Visit the last castle to be built in Britain, with the rugged Dartmoor tors that surround it.

Find out more about Castle Drogo

Photo by: National Trust Images/James Dob

Location: Drewsteignton, England

Exterior of Castle Drogo, looking up through the fir trees
Castle Drogo

A period drama lover's paradise, Wilton House has set the scene for Bridgerton, The Crown and Emma.

Explore the state rooms at Wilton House

Photo by: kgbrott

Location: Salisbury, England

View of Wilton House and garden
Wilton House

You might recognise this Tudor house: it has appeared in Bridgerton, Midsomer Murders and more.

What’s on at Dorney Court

Photo by: Dorney Court

Location: Windsor, England

Tall plants in the gardens of Dorney Court, Windsor
Dorney Court

Combining award-winning grounds by Capability Brown with one of the most impressive mansions from Jacobean England, history comes to life at Audley End.

Take a trip into history at Audley End

Photo by: Visit East of England

Location: Audley End, England

An exterior view of Audley End
Audley End

An action-packed day out with bike hire, boat rides, treetop rope courses, walled gardens and a vineyard – all before you even get inside the 18th-century house.

Take a guided tour of Holkham Hall

Photo by: Visit East of England

Location: Holkham, England

The outdoor water fountain at Holkham Hall
Holkham Hall

Whatever the season, Arley Hall has plenty of charm, from winter light trails to outdoor theatre.

Discover Arley Hall & Gardens

Photo by: takemyheart.somewhere

Location: Northwich, England

Arley Hall, Cheshire
Arley Hall & Gardens

Art lovers, the treasures at this French Renaissance-style manor house are not to be missed.

Explore the captivating Waddesdon Manor

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Location: Aylesbury, England

Couple walking outside a stately home
Waddesdon Manor

Explore this Tudor treasure, as seen in the 2024 series The Gentlemen, with its spellbinding house, gardens and park, from March to September.

Be charmed by Knebworth House

Photo by: Visit Hertfordshire/ Rebecca Douglas

Location: Knebworth, England

Two young men walk in the grounds of a heritage house
Knebworth House

Explore the local history collections of Cusworth Hall and don't miss the newly restored walled garden, a treat for all the senses.

Learn something new at Cusworth Hall

Photo by: Drew Carlin/Heritage Doncaster

Location: Doncaster, England

View of a large country house surrounded by trees
Cusworth Hall

Immortalised in films such as Batman Begins and Paddington 2, Hatfield House is a sparkling example of Jacobean architecture.

Step into history at Hatfield House

Photo by: VisitBritain/Bugo Echem

Location: Hatfield, England

Man, woman and child playing in formal garden of large country house
Hatfield House, Park and Gardens

Regal sleeps: Where to stay like a lord or lady

Photo by: VisitBritain/Pete Seaward

Location: Blenheim, England

Woman sat under a tree sketching in the grounds of a large country estate

Noble neighbours

Britain’s stately homes sit in some special locations such as Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire’s glorious Woodstock, or Mount Stuart on Scotland’s peaceful Isle of Bute. When planning your visit, why not extend your stay at a nearby town or village, and bask in its beautiful surroundings.

Photo by: Culdees Estate

Location: Crieff, Scotland

Inside view of one of the rooms at Culdees Glamping, Scotland

Grand glamping

Want to live the highlife without breaking the bank? Many of Britain’s heritage homes have transformed their gardens into glamping and camping sites. Explore Culdees Castle Estate in Perthshire and Raynham Estate in Norfolk.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Tomo Brejc

Location: Bakewell, England

Couple walking on a stone bridge, a large country house in the backround

Posh property

From cute cottages to entire ‘wings’ of a stately home, some of Britain’s stately properties offer self-catering accommodation in their grounds. Check out Longleat House, Chatsworth House and Gloucestershire’s Horton Court – which you might recognise from Poldark and Wolf Hall.

Photo by: tr_howard/theladyracer/clivenhouse/proverbskin

Location: Cliveden, England

Young couple walking outside Cliveden House

Historic hotels

Britain’s country house hotels are as impressive as they are handsome. Stay in the likes of Cliveden, Bowood House, Luton Hoo and Goodwood – which not only boast incredible architecture and heritage, but also excellent top-notch menus and attentive service. A truly unforgettable way to immerse yourself in history.

Stately stays for a luxurious break

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Dine at the three-Michelin starred restaurant where the menu boasts the finest seasonal and local produce celebrating the bounty of Lancashire.

Get a taste for Moor Hall

Photo by: Mark Bristol

Location: Lancaster, England

A nighttime exterior shot of Moor Hall in Lancashire
Moor Hall

With its acclaimed restaurant and beautiful suites, this stately hotel celebrates the finer things in life.

Stay at the Kingsknowes Hotel

Photo by: Kingsnowes Hotel

Location: Galashiels, Scotland

Kingsknowes Hotel, Galashiels, Scotland
Kingsknowes Hotel

Fletcher’s Cottage, the spa at this luxury hotel, is a sanctuary of rest and relaxation.

Treat yourself at Archerfield House

Photo by: Archerfield House

Location: Dirleton, Scotland

The Relax Room, Fletcher’s Cottage, Archerfield House, Dirleton, East Lothian, Scotland
Archerfield House

Tuck into seasonal dishes and locally made wines, or sharpen your skills in the cookery school.

Get to know Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa

Photo by: Chewton Glen Hotel

Location: New Milton, England

Plate of food on a set table
Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa

If you love understated luxury, quirky design and excellent food, you’ll adore this historic manor house.

More about Burley Manor

Photo by: Burley Manor

Location: Ringwood, England

Swimming pool surrounded by a garden on a sunny day
Burley Manor

This four-star retreat features a spa, thermal suite, outdoor swimming pool and two excellent restaurants.

Relax at Balmer Lawn Hotel

Photo by: iloveouseburn

Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England

View through the trees of historic buildings, Newcastle's Ouseburn district
Balmer Lawn Hotel

Retreat to this fabulous spa hotel, set on 200 acres of wild Welsh estate and gardens.

Spend the night at Bodysgallen Hall

Photo by: National Trust Images/Chris Lac

Location: Llandudno, Wales

Bodysgallen Hall, Hotel, Restaurant and Spa, Conwy
Bodysgallen Hall

Explore a stately home that doubles as a luxury hotel.

Find out more about Cliveden

Photo by: VisitBritain/LifewithBugo

Location: Taplow, England

Woman laughing sitting on the grass in front of a stately home
Cliveden

World-class gastronomic flair and outstanding organic produce at this acclaimed restaurant and hotel (closed for refurbishment until 2027).

Uncover more about Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons

Photo by: @belmondlemanoir

Location: Great Milton, England

Cookery School at Les Manoir aux Quat'Saisons, A Belmond Hotel
Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Great Milton

Dine at the three-Michelin starred restaurant where the menu boasts the finest seasonal and local produce celebrating the bounty of Lancashire.

Get a taste for Moor Hall

Photo by: Mark Bristol

Location: Lancaster, England

A nighttime exterior shot of Moor Hall in Lancashire
Moor Hall

With its acclaimed restaurant and beautiful suites, this stately hotel celebrates the finer things in life.

Stay at the Kingsknowes Hotel

Photo by: Kingsnowes Hotel

Location: Galashiels, Scotland

Kingsknowes Hotel, Galashiels, Scotland
Kingsknowes Hotel

Fletcher’s Cottage, the spa at this luxury hotel, is a sanctuary of rest and relaxation.

Treat yourself at Archerfield House

Photo by: Archerfield House

Location: Dirleton, Scotland

The Relax Room, Fletcher’s Cottage, Archerfield House, Dirleton, East Lothian, Scotland
Archerfield House

Tuck into seasonal dishes and locally made wines, or sharpen your skills in the cookery school.

Get to know Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa

Photo by: Chewton Glen Hotel

Location: New Milton, England

Plate of food on a set table
Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa

If you love understated luxury, quirky design and excellent food, you’ll adore this historic manor house.

More about Burley Manor

Photo by: Burley Manor

Location: Ringwood, England

Swimming pool surrounded by a garden on a sunny day
Burley Manor

This four-star retreat features a spa, thermal suite, outdoor swimming pool and two excellent restaurants.

Relax at Balmer Lawn Hotel

Photo by: iloveouseburn

Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England

View through the trees of historic buildings, Newcastle's Ouseburn district
Balmer Lawn Hotel

Retreat to this fabulous spa hotel, set on 200 acres of wild Welsh estate and gardens.

Spend the night at Bodysgallen Hall

Photo by: National Trust Images/Chris Lac

Location: Llandudno, Wales

Bodysgallen Hall, Hotel, Restaurant and Spa, Conwy
Bodysgallen Hall

Explore a stately home that doubles as a luxury hotel.

Find out more about Cliveden

Photo by: VisitBritain/LifewithBugo

Location: Taplow, England

Woman laughing sitting on the grass in front of a stately home
Cliveden

World-class gastronomic flair and outstanding organic produce at this acclaimed restaurant and hotel (closed for refurbishment until 2027).

Uncover more about Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons

Photo by: @belmondlemanoir

Location: Great Milton, England

Cookery School at Les Manoir aux Quat'Saisons, A Belmond Hotel
Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Great Milton

Stately home FAQs

  • There isn’t a definitive number but there are approximately 3,000 stately homes in Britain across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. It’s believed that historically, this number was once closer to 5,000. Many homes are open to the public, managed and maintained by organisations such as the National Trust.  

  • Again, it isn’t possible to provide an exact figure for the number of stately homes in England. However, a good proportion of the estimated 3,000 are located in the country and you’ll find plenty of them to explore across its regions. There are higher concentrations in areas that once had a particular trade, such as the Cotswolds, where wool production funded many lavish buildings.  

  • A manor house refers to a residential property that was often historically owned by a wealthy landowner. They were largely built during the medieval and early modern periods of history. Most have gorgeous gardens, elegant architecture, and plenty of stories to tell those who choose to visit. 

  • Yes, there are absolutely houses like those in Downton Abbey that still exist in Great Britain today and are open to visitors. Longleat House in Wiltshire is one example and Wentworth Woodhouse in South Yorkshire is another. 

Discover Britain’s heritage highlights

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