Houses & buildings

With more than 300 historic buildings in our care, from the grand and imposing to the small and quirky, you're spoilt for choice when planning a visit

The Orangery illuminated for Christmas at Powis Castle and garden, Wales.

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Victorian Christmas tree trimming at Speke Hall

Experience a historic Christmas 

Experience the traditions of times past this Christmas. There's lots to discover, from Tudor feasts and Victorian Christmas trees to the hustle and bustle of a 1930s kitchen on Christmas Eve.

Step back in time
Father Christmas and a young child

Visit Father Christmas 

Father Christmas will be setting up his grotto at places we look after this festive season. Come along to meet Santa and his elves in their grotto and share your Christmas wishes.

Dunham Winter Lights 1

Christmas lights and winter illuminations 

See our houses and gardens illuminated with twinkling lights for the festive season. Wrap up warm and take a seasonal stroll through the magical winter light displays.

Christmas kitchen decorations at Wightwick Manor

Eight Christmas traditions from history 

Did you know that the way we decorate, eat and enjoy ourselves over the festive period has direct links with our ancestors? Discover eight Christmas traditions from history.

Read the list
Visitors in the entrance hall at Attingham Park

Our greatest houses 

One size doesn't fit all when it comes to the houses we look after. From the biggest to the smallest, the most innovative to the most scandalous, discover the amazing variety of houses in our care.

Step inside
Two girls dressing up in period costume at Tredegar House

Rainy day fun 

How do you keep the kids entertained on a rainy day? Head to one of the special places we look after for some great activities that won't be ruined by a downpour. They can run around in an indoor adventure play area, play dress up or take part in a house trail and search for clues.

Ideas for rainy days
Portrait of Bess of Hardwick

Women and Power: Exploring women’s history at our places 

Explore the lives of those who fought for and against women's suffrage as we mark 100 years since some women were granted the right to vote. Uncover the previously untold stories of the women who helped shape our places with exhibitions, art installations, podcasts and more.

Exhibition highlights

A painting of waves crashing on rocks by artist Bron Stubbington

Special exhibitions 

Here's our guide to current and future exhibitions at our places. Take your pick from exhibitions on Chippendale, Jacobean portraits, Dutch masters, women’s suffrage and fashion.

Neon light installation - The Argory

Contemporary art exhibitions 

Explore the ideas and themes that shaped the places we care for through contemporary art exhibitions and events, all in partnership with the Arts Council. Unearth filmscapes, installations, new perceptions of women and more.

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Find a place to visit and begin planning your day out

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