From the ruins of country estates to manor houses that are still lived in today, the UK is full of incredible historic houses with fascinating stories to tell. There are thousands of historically important houses across Britain, each offering something different.
Many of the UK’s heritage houses are managed by a charity or organisation that arranges the tours and looks after the upkeep of these impressive dwellings. The National Trust in England looks after over 300 historic buildings, while their sister organisation in Scotland is one of the largest heritage organisations in the country.
Another 400 historic monuments and buildings are under the care of English Heritage, while Historic Houses works with heritage attractions and homes to make them accessible to the public and further build the world’s interest in Britain’s heritage.
Houses in all shapes and sizes
When it comes to heritage properties, there isn’t a one size fits all. From the National Trust property Ala Ronde in Devon, the county’s only 16 sided house, to some of the most magnificent manors and historical homes, there are plenty of stories to be told. There is everything from Royal romances to political scandals, incredible art collections and some fascinating architecture.
Famous residence
From lords and ladies to princes, politicians, authors and film stars, some of the most well-known names have lived in Britain’s heritage homes. Agatha Christie’s holiday home in the English Riviera is open to visitors, as are Sylvia Plath and Ted Hugh’s former Devon home and T E Lawrence and Thomas Hardy’s residents in Dorset.
If you visit Shakespeare’s county, you can stop by his childhood home and there are even a number of surviving Tudor homes in Pembroke, some of which are the oldest houses left standing in the UK, all available for you to tour.
A spooktastic time
In the UK, we love a good ghost story and if you are spiritually inclined, you’ll want to visit some of the region’s heritage homes. Some of them have some very spooky stories, particularly of former residents who have never quite moved on.
Find a whole host of heritage houses across the UK here.
to add an item to your Itinerary basket.
