Throughout the UK there are a number of heritage buildings and stately homes standing proudly. The UK is renowned for its grand properties, and they are perfect to explore during a day out. Originally built to house the royal and aristocratic families of the country, during the 20th century many families were not able to maintain their homes, so many were given to organisations such as the National Trust and English Heritage for their maintenance and upkeep to be ongoing. These imposing buildings have now become open to the public, allowing entry to their formal rooms, impressive landscapes and grand architectural designs. If you’re looking to tour the great stately homes and heritage buildings of the UK, We Buy Any House has compiled the UK’s most marvellous manor houses to visit.
#1- Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire:
Blenheim Palace, which is located in Oxfordshire, was originally home to the 1st Duke of Malborough, a gentleman named John Churchill. Denoting themes and architecture inspired by the English Baroque era, the Palace was originally a present given to John Churchill by Queen Anne, after it was designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor and Sir John Vanbrugh- two established designers who added various elements of luxury to the Palace, including a garden that spans over 2,000 acres and a saloon.
#2- Chatsworth House, Peak District:
Existing since the 11th century, Chatsworth House is infamous for imprisoning one of the most famous British Royals- Mary Queen of Scots. The Royal, who was imprisoned here for several years has paved the way for the house to be enriched with history. Based near the Peak District, the house is known for its cultivating gardens, that are blended with stunning water features.
#3- Alnwick Castle, Northumberland:
Once used as a set in the global phenomenon Harry Potter films, Alnwick Castle is often affectionately known as the “Windsor of the North”. The castle has been home to many famous individuals, most notably the Percy family. The castle is now known for its ties to the writings of J.K Rowling, as the castle puts on many Potter-related events which attract a huge amount of visitors annually.
#4- Luton Hoo, Bedfordshire:
Once existing as a Tudor mansion, this neoclassical estate had an array of titled owners before it was converted into a hotel in recent years. Hidden within the 1065 acres of land, there is spa, Italianete gardens, a golf course and a fishing lake.
#5- Highclere Castle, West Berkshire:
Another location in the UK which has infamous ties to TV and film culture is Highclere Castle- located in West Berkshire. Redesigned by the iconic Sir Charles Barry, who was responsible for the rebuilding of the Palace of Westminster, the home was refurbished for the Earl of Carnarvon. The castle is now used as a setting in film and TV, most notably the British drama Downton Abbey.
#6- Hardwick Hall, Derbyshire:
The stunning hall, which was home to infamous royal Queen Elizabeth I, has become a remarkable location throughout UK stately homes. The hall features a plethora of glass windows, and no expenses were spared in terms of glass- leading to the rhyme “Hardwick Hall, more glass than wall”.
#7- Wentworth Woodhouse, South Yorkshire:
Home to Thomas Wenworth, who was the administrator of Charles I, Wentworth Woodhouse is known for its magnificent size, as its double the length of Buckingham Palace. Built in the 18th century, the house is known for its rich history and gruesome tale.
#8- Newstead Abbey, Nottinghamshire:
Home to former romantic poet Lord Byron, who was known to be ‘mad, bad, and dangerous to know, the Abbey is home to the tomb of Boatswain- Lord Byron’s beloved dog. As the estate is open to the public, you can visit the various gardens and rooms inside the abbey and gain an insight into the life of poet Lord Byron.