National Trust days out make great experiences for all the family. We’ve covered a selection of National Trust sites to explore in the Lake District. Now we look south of our Lancashire caravan park for the best stately homes and carefully manicured gardens in the area. So if you’re enjoying some well-earned time away in your holiday home at Hawthorns Park you might like to consider National Trust days out in Lancashire. We’ve highlighted some of our favourites in this guide.
Gawthorpe Hall
Gawthorpe Hall is an Elizabethan gem and is one of the great National Trust days out in Lancashire. The impressive building was redesigned in the 1850’s by Sir Charles Barry, who also designed none other than the House of Parliament and Highclere Castle.
The walls inside Gawthorpe Hall are adorned by portraits of society figures from the 17th century. One of the main themes within the rooms is textiles, with an extraordinary showcase of needlework, lace and costume-related items. These were all part of a collection put together by Rachel Kay Shuttleworth.
The whole family can enjoy causal stroll around the grounds, exploring the nearby woodlands followed by delicious refreshments in the tea room.
Booking is not required to visit the garden and grounds at Gawthorpe Hall. However, pre-booking is a requirement when visiting the house, and is open Wednesday-Sunday. Book your visit to the house.
Photo credit: Matthew Hartley on Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Formby
It’s not just historical buildings and homes that have National Trust ownership. The glorious Lancashire beaches at Formby are complimented by sand dunes and pine trees. If you like the idea of a coastal family walk there are several options on offer at Formby.
- Formby Red Squirrel Walk – keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife
- Asparagus Walk – Wander through the crop fields.
- Undiscovered Formby Walk – Hidden secrets, past and present await
- Formby Woodland Walk – an easier walk, perfect for a picnic!
Find out more about this dramatic landscape and plan your visit on the National Trust website.
Photo credit: SPDP on Flickr (CC BY 2.0)
Rufford Old Hall
Rufford Old Hall, near Ormskirk is a fine example of a Tudor building roughly an hour’s drive from Hawthorns Park. This ancient building was owned by Sir Robert Hesketh and dates back to the 1500’s. The rooms are brimming with historical artefacts including the Philip Ashcroft Collection which pay tribute to the industries of Lancashire. Look out for beautiful tapestries that have been well-preserved and depict the nearby landscapes. Step outside to take a stroll around the stunning gardens which surround the building.
Guided tours and talks take place inside the Great Hall are a great way to uncover the rich history of the venue. Book now and find out the very latest information to make this part of your National Trust days out in Lancashire here.
Photo credit: Gerald Murphy on Flickr (CC BY-ND 2.0)
Heysham Coast
The village of Heysham, near Morecambe Bay, is just over 10 miles away from Hawthorns. You’ll find woodland, sandy beaches and rock pools as well as outstanding sea views from the remains of St Patricks Chapel. a piece of architecture which dates to the Stone Age!
Not far from St Patrick’s Chapel are eight grave-shaped cuts into the rock. These are thought to have been first introduced in the eleventh century and were reserved for the burial of highly regarded people.
There’s so much to explore along the Lancashire coast at Heysham. Read stories of local people and what it was like growing up in this online leaflet and pay a visit to the Heysham Heritage Centre, which has undergone a refurbishment.
Photo credit: Joe Hayhurst on Flickr (CC BY 2.0)
Arnside and Silverdale
Get away from it all and experience vast areas of coastal countryside in Arnside and Silverdale. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is made up of a combination of coastal stretches, clifftops, woodland and colourful meadows. Whether it’s walks with the dog, taking in the views of Morecambe Bay’s beaches or stargazing – Arnside and Silverdale has much to offer. From Nature Reserves, a miniature railway to the mystical Beetham Fairy Steps – see our guide to things to do in Arnside and Silverdale.
Photo credit: Ian Livesey on Flickr (Public Domain)
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