Dunham Massey

Kristy Stott, Theatre Editor
Dunham Massey
National Trust

Whatever the weather, Dunham Massey in Altrincham takes our number one spot for a fun outdoorsy day out.

With plenty of space to explore and run free, accessible paths, beautiful gardens and a herd of fallow deer who happily gambol around, Dunham is a beautiful area of parkland close to Altrincham town centre. Perfect for family walks – while there is not a typical playground with swings and slides – there are plenty of natural play areas and log piles for imaginative play and outdoor family frolics.

Part of the Dunham Massey Estate, the park is home to a magnificent collection of ancient trees and stunning formal gardens. A site of national importance, many of the towering oak trees date as far back as the 17th century. And whatever time of year you choose to visit, there is always beautiful planting to admire – from delicate rose gardens and summer blooms to blankets of snowdrops in the winter months.

With a rich and glorious history – as compelling as the landscape it occupies – Dunham Massey Hall offered itself up as the Stamford Military Hospital during the First World War. Covering a whopping 192.7 acres, Dunham Massey was given to the National Trust in 1976 by Roger Grey, the 10th Earl of Stamford. The site went on to gain status as a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1978. The trees and woodland detritus are a happy home for some of Britain’s rarest fungi and bugs.

Make the most of your visit by checking out The Stables Restaurant and Stamford Café – both have reopened with indoor and outdoor seating. And, of course, a day at Dunham would not be complete without a trip to the ice-cream parlour.

Come rain or shine, there aren’t many places we’d rather be, than Dunham Massey.

AltrinchamWA14 4SJ View map
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Accessibility

Unfortunately access to the house is limited. Please call 0161 941 1025 for more information if you have queries about visiting the house. Shuttle transfer available from March to October Drop-off point available PMVs available on free hire, booking required Adapted toilets near visitor reception Designated mobility parking in main car park, approx 200 yards from visitor facilities Accessible grounds, flat paths with firm surfaces. Cobbled area which can be avoided, map available

Children and Families

Baby-changing facilities Children's quiz/trail Front-carrying baby slings and hip-carrying infant seats for loan Pushchairs admitted Family activities in school holidays

Services and Facilities

Britain's largest and best winter garden awaits you Truly now a garden for all seasons Enjoy a game of croquet on a summer's afternoon Park and garden tours available at no extra charge Access to the house is limited, and not all of our collections are on show. Please visit the NT collections website www.nationaltrustcollections.org.uk for further information. If you have a more specific query or would like to request to see something that isn’t on display please contact our House & Collections team on dunhammassey@nationaltrust.org.uk for more information or to make an appointment

Opening Hours

  • Monday10:00am - 4:00pm
  • Tuesday10:00am - 4:00pm
  • Wednesday10:00am - 4:00pm
  • Thursday10:00am - 4:00pm
  • Friday10:00am - 4:00pm
  • Saturday10:00am - 4:00pm
  • Sunday10:00am - 4:00pm

Always double check opening hours with the venue before making a special visit.

What's on near Dunham Massey

Performer in Wheelchair lit from behind. Lived Fiction at The Lowry
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Lived Fiction at The Lowry

Acclaimed and inclusive dance company Stopgap present an evening of stunning movement, breathtaking projection art and evocative audio description.

from £14.50
Indestructible at The Lowry
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Indestructible at The Lowry

Offering an unflinching exploration of gender and power in contemporary arts, this brave and witty performance asks the audience: why is it still so difficult for female artists to succeed?

from £12.00

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