7 historic houses to visit during Easter

If you’re looking for a fun way to spend time with your loved ones over Easter, why not explore one of Britain’s many impressive country houses? Discover the beautiful landscapes and incredible stories while enjoying brilliant Easter activities at these seven historical homes.

1. Dunham Massey, Cheshire

Step into the 17th century in this gorgeous Georgian home and investigate their extensive collection of fascinating antiques, which reveal the history of the house. Then, explore the stunning gardens, 400-year-old mill, and ancient parklands populated with adorable fallow deer.

Dunham Massey is also hosting an Easter trail throughout March and April. Pick up your Easter Adventure pack from the welcome desk to enjoy 10 activity stations dotted throughout the 300 acre grounds to learn about the history of the house and celebrate the start of spring.

2. Longleat House, Wiltshire

If you’re interested in breathtaking Elizabethan architecture or experiencing one of the most significant private antique collections in Britain, Longleat House is the destination for you. Learn more about the history through one of their intimate guided tours or relax in their 900 acres of stunning landscaped grounds.

They also run brilliant activities all year round for your children and grandchildren to enjoy. Walk, drive, or sail through their famous safari to meet animals ranging from tiny meerkats to gigantic Asian elephants. Or if you’d prefer to avoid the mischievous monkeys, you can lose yourself in one of the world’s biggest hedge mazes or take a trip on their quaint railway.

3. Audley End House and Gardens, Essex

Turn back the clock to the Victorian era at one of England’s grandest mansions. Whether you want to experience the servant’s wing and kitchen garden or the state rooms and beautiful grounds, you can discover what life was like for both the rich and poor at this amazing country house.

This Easter, English Heritage is teaming up with Lego to transform Audley End’s historic stables into brick art. Help them bring history to life through your Lego creations, which will be transformed into mini versions by their master builders and displayed for all visitors to see.

4. Moseley Old Hall, Wolverhampton

Discover the secrets of the Elizabethan farmhouse whose priest hole and chapel attic tell the story of King Charles II’s escape. Stroll through a 17th century-style knot garden and heritage orchard while your children and grandchildren climb their three-storey tree house, and then peruse their lovely second-hand bookshop.

Moseley Old Hall is peppering their grounds with Easter-themed activities this year. Follow their trail from 22 March to 7 April for only £3, which includes bunny ears and a chocolate egg to get you in the Easter spirit.

5. Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire

Blenheim Palace is the only non-royal, non-episcopal house in the country to hold the title of “palace”. As one of England’s largest country houses, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 and remains one of the most stunning buildings and gardens in Britain.

This bank holiday weekend, visit for their Easter Eggstravaganza. With exciting activities such as circus skills, balloon modelling, and a travelling vintage variety show, there’s plenty of fun for the whole family. You can keep your children and grandchildren busy with their egg hunt around the huge grounds while you refuel on delicious homemade food at their Walled Garden Pizzeria.

6. The Children’s Country House, Sudbury

Sitting proudly in their marvellous gardens, the incredible Sudbury Hall was the historic country home of the Vernon family. Explore their childhood museum, where you can take part in interactive activities, meet a Dalek, and be transported back in time in a Victorian classroom.

Once you’ve finished exploring the amazing building, you can enjoy a cup of tea in the Fairy Tale Forest Café and browse the Jungle Bookshop. Or if you’re looking for an adventure to keep your children and grandchildren entertained, why not book the second world war-themed Mystery Rooms Experience or get stuck into seasonal crafts at the Activity Hub?

7. Carisbrooke Castle, Isle of Wight

Nestled at the heart of the Isle of Wight, Carisbrooke Castle has been many things: an artillery fortress, a king’s prison, and a royal summer residence. Today, you can experience the spectacular panoramic views from the high castle walls, relax in the tranquil Princess Beatrice Garden, and meet the delightful Carisbrooke donkeys.

From 23 March to 14 April, you can join their Easter Adventure Quest for just £2. Hunt for clues in the castle grounds to track down the Easter eggs for a tasty chocolate treat, learning about the history of the island at the same time.