Overview

Nestled along the border between Greater Manchester and Cheshire, Dunham Massey is a captivating historical estate consisting drawing thousands of visitors every day.

There are plenty of things to see and do whilst you're here, enough to fill at least half a day's worth of exploring. Look for the deer and other wildlife in the park, take a stroll around the beautifully kept garden, and step into the centuries-old mansion.

Top Tips

A single entry to the property can be quite pricey, especially if going as a whole family. Consider purchasing a National Trust membership, which gives you unlimited access to all of their managed properties for a whole year!

Website

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/cheshire-greater-manchester/dunham-massey

The Parkland

The park is one of the main attractions to the estate, as it is home to dozens of deer.

There is a deer sanctuary within the park itself where visitors cannot step in, but the deer do frequently roam around the rest of the park, so you can see them at a close distance.

However, if you're visiting with children or dogs, please prevent them going too close to the deer, even though they may see friendly. Afterall, they are wild animals! This is particularly true during their mating season.

The park offers peaceful trails where you can take a relaxing stroll. A full loop around the park takes just under at an average pace.

Throughout the walk, you will be able to see historic structures, ancient trees and other wildlife.

There are also a couple of ponds, with benches nearby, where you can sit down and enjoy the view of the beautiful park.

The House

The centrepiece of Dunham Massey is the opulent mansion. As a 17th Century house, it is home to a considerable amount of artwork that spans throughout its history.

The house is normally open to visitors between March and October, so check the website in advance of your visit.

The house if filled with period furniture and fascinating artifacts. Each room tells a different story, from the grand dining hall to the cozy servant's quarters.

The Garden

Located adjacent to the House, the Gardens is very well kept and is worth having a quick look around.

During the winter season, the Garden is transformed into a magical Christmas walk, filled with lights and decorations, so it's worth a visit during the dark evenings (special admission tickets apply).

The Mill

Often overlooked, the mill is the oldest building within the estate. Tours are conducted between March and November, where the guide will walk you through the mill and talk you through the wealth of varied history behind it.

If you're in the area, why not consider visiting Lyme Park as well? It is also a National Trust property, so you'll be making a bang for a buck with a National Trust annual pass!

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