![Knole in Kent has been a show house since 1605 (Image: ©National Trust Images/James Dob)](/upload/news/2023/07/29/79966.jpg)
This is not just any olde day out. If you’re looking for an unforgettable time come rain or shine, try visiting one of the National Trust’s most unique houses. To take advantage of our fantastic offer of a free family day pass, check the offer here: Get a free National Trust pass worth £50 for your family day out this summer.
For a taste of grandeur, step into Knole inKent. Formerly an archbishop’s palace, Knole has been a show house since 1605, with dozens of rooms and courtyards to explore. Admire the Great Hall and grand staircase, or tour the attics and discover the history of the site. There’s also a 77-step climb to the top of Knole’s Gatehouse Tower, which should wear out the kids nicely! Pre-book admission to guarantee entry.
Snowshill Manor in Gloucestershire is home to an eclectic range of items. Charles Paget Wade’s treasure chest of delights contains a staggering 22,000 items, ranging from Samurai armour to rooms full of toys, so there will be something for everyone.
Finch Foundry in Devon is still going strong. England’s last working water-powered forge has a workshop with a range of tools as well as an enchanting thatched wooden summer house, built in the 19th century. There are also some gorgeous grounds to explore.
The former family home of wartime Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill, Chartwell in Kent is arranged and decorated as it was when his family lived there. Explore rooms filled with their possessions, plus grounds with lakes and a kitchen garden that Churchill helped create.
Castle Drogo in Devon was the last to be constructed in England. It was built between 1911 and 1930 and boasts dramatic views over the Teign Gorge. The castle, near Exeter, also has a fabulous estate to explore, with a 100- year-old garden and stunning river walks.
Home to the Marquesses of Londonderry for over 250 years, Mount Stewart in County Down was recently restored as part of a three-year, £8million project. The mansion is filled with historical relics, such as armour from the Peninsula War.
Art lovers will enjoy a trip to Petworth House in West Sussex. Inspired by the palaces of Europe, it was rebuilt in the 17th century with numerous grand state rooms. Treasures include the Molyneux Globe – the earliest English terrestrial globe in existence.
Follow in the footsteps of kings and queens at Polesden Lacey House in Surrey. The future King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother honeymooned at this magnificent country retreat and the romantic getaway is steeped in history.