Arley Hall

A much-loved family home, Arley Hall and Gardens is one of the most attractive estates in the Cheshire region of northwest England. The mansion stands at the very heart of the Arley Estate overlooking the famous gardens and beautifully landscaped park with a nursery, chapel and forest. It is a great place to unwind.Arley Hall is an impressive example of a Victorian country house built in the Elizabethan style. Inside, admire the elaborate ceilings and oak paneling, grand staircases and fireplaces, and the stained glass. Get insight into life at the hall, which has been the home of just one family for over 550 years.Step outside and take in the scents and sights of the magnificent 250-year-old landscaped gardens, which are said to be among the finest in the country. One of the key features is the double herbaceous border of the gardens, believed to be the first of its kind in Britain. Don’t rush your visit, because a stroll through the 8 acres (3.2 hectares) of formal gardens can easily take several hours if you are interested in horticulture. You may meet the owners, Lord and Lady Ashbrook, who are usually happy to answer gardening-related questions from visitors.Stop for a drink or a homemade meal in the preserved 16th-century Tudor barn with a tranquil outdoor seating area. If you want to try traditional activities, pre-book to try your hand at archery or clay pigeon shooting. The estate is also often the setting of special events, including outdoor concerts and theater, garden festivals, a vintage car show and photography workshops. Situated some 20 miles (32 kilometers) southwest of Manchester, Arley Hall and Gardens in Northwich is best reached by car. The estate is not open to the public in winter and note that the hall is not always open when the gardens are open. The admission price is cheaper if you only visit the gardens. For details about opening hours, prices and upcoming events, check the estate’s website.