Ian Jones

Famous collection of Gillow furniture and objets d’art, plus gardens and woodland walks. Educational ‘bee corner’, ‘woodland hotel’ and ‘caterpillar maze’ for children.

One of Cumbria’s finest historical sites, Holker Hall and Garden offers a gloriously asymmetrical pile of rambling galleries and green spaces.

Tells the 700-year-long story of a single family (and, as a result, English architecture and interiors). Very impressive Great Hall, gallery, chapel, a “Chinese room”, “Number 10” bedroom and tea rooms open to visitors after a tour.

Historic house, art gallery and museum. Museum houses a variety of displays, encompassing natural history, Egyptology, local history, textiles, decorative art and regional furniture. Art gallery is focused on Victorian and Pre-Raphaelite art, “with some earlier paintings as well”.

“A Palladium gem on the banks of the River Tyne.” 45-minute guided tours available, which showcase the family’s collection of Old Master paintings, silver, ceramics, rare furniture and antiquities.

Previously controlled by the National Trust, now back under the management of the Wright family. Old farm buildings adjacent to the Hall are home to artisanal shops and cafes.

Norton Conyers is said to be Charlotte Bronte’s inspiration for Thornfield Hall in ‘Jane Eyre’ (including the “mad” Mrs Rochester). Famous gardens, plus a small sales area specialising in “unusual hardy plants” to take home.

Freshly cooked Japanese dishes to eat in or take away at this popular eat in or takeaway joint in the Manchester Arndale.