Project

Improving paths at Dunham Massey

View of Dunham Massey House — We’re improving the paths in front of the Dunham Massey house. | © National Trust Images/ Annapurna Mellor

We’re improving the paths in front of the Dunham Massey house. This work will support the long-term care of the house and improve accessibility. Here’s what you need to know on your next visit.

What are we doing?

We’re replacing the existing forecourt path drainage system and resurfacing the path with resin-bound material. The new surface will support the long-term care of the house and its collection, improve accessibility, reduce maintenance requirements and help preserve the character of the park and garden.

What does this mean for your visit?

From 13 July until September, the forecourt path area will be fenced off and alternative routes will be in place to provide access to the house and garden.

Please follow any temporary signage and directions from our team during your visit. These arrangements are in place to help you enjoy your visit, and we're grateful for your patience and cooperation while the improvements are carried out.

Accessibility during the project

Temporary access arrangements mean the route to the house, Stables Restaurant, Ice Cream Parlour and stables toilets will be via a cobbled surface, which is unsuitable for visitors using wheelchairs, mobility scooters or walking aids.

Visiting the gardens

The wheelchair-friendly shuttle buggy can take you across the cobbled area to access the house. If you need any assistance or would like support planning your route, please speak to a member of our team.

Accessing the Visitor Centre, Café and toilets

The accessible route to the Visitor Centre, Café and toilets will continue to be available.

Frequently asked questions

The forecourt path is a key feature of the historic landscape and is the primary route for visitors accessing the house and garden.

The current self-binding gravel poses challenges for the care and conservation of the house and its collection. The surface is in poor condition and there are issues with drainage as a result.

The dusty surface of the gravel path blows into the house, settling on floors and other surfaces, leading to micro-scratches which, over time, cause harm to the collection. The new surface will significantly reduce the ingress of dust and improve the long-term care of the Dunham Massey house and collection.
We know summer is one of our busiest times of year and we've carefully considered the timing of the project.

Once planning permission was approved, we wanted to start work as soon as possible so visitors can benefit from the improvements sooner.

The resin-bound surface must be laid in dry and warm conditions. Beginning the project in summer gives us the best opportunity to complete the work on schedule. Winter weather can affect ground conditions, increase the risk of delays and extend the length of the project.

By starting now, we can complete the work as efficiently as possible while continuing to keep Dunham Massey open.
Our full visitor offer will remain available throughout the project. You can still enjoy Summer of Play, including the Pokémon challenges, the North Park Play Hub and Picnic and Play in the Garden.

Access to the house and garden will remain open throughout the project, with clearly signed alternative routes in place. If you need any assistance or would like more information, please speak to a member of the team.