Discover the Fascinating Stories behind National Trust Homes with a Rich History

The National Trust is a treasure trove of historical homes that provide an intriguing glimpse into the past. From grand mansions to charming cottages, each property has a unique story to tell. In this article, we will delve into the world of National Trust homes and explore their rich history, architectural significance, and the captivating tales hidden within their walls.

1. Chartwell House – Sir Winston Churchill's Former Residence

Chartwell House, located in Kent, England, once served as the beloved family home of Sir Winston Churchill—the renowned British statesman and Prime Minister. This imposing country mansion offers visitors a rare insight into Churchill's private life, showcasing his personal belongings, political mementos, and the picturesque gardens that were so dear to him.

Houses of the National Trust: Homes with History

by Lydia Greeves (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	158496 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	956 pages

FREE

2. Waddesdon Manor – An Exquisite French Renaissance-style Château

Waddesdon Manor, nestled in the heart of Buckinghamshire, England, is a breathtaking mansion that merges French Renaissance and English Gothic architectural styles. Constructed in the late 19th century for the Rothschild family, this opulent château boasts a fabulous collection of art, stunning gardens, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

3. Castle Ward – A Northern Irish Gem with a Unique Split Personality

Castle Ward, situated in County Down, Northern Ireland, is a National Trust property that stands out for its distinctive architectural duality. One side of the house showcases a classical Palladian style while the other exhibits a more Gothic approach. This striking contrast has earned Castle Ward a spot in popular television series, including the iconic Game of Thrones.

4. Dyrham Park – A Magnificent Baroque Mansion amidst Rolling Countryside

Dyrham Park, located near Bath, England, is an awe-inspiring Baroque mansion surrounded by serene parkland. This grand house features magnificent interiors adorned with intricate woodcarvings, luxurious furnishings, and a stunning collection of Dutch paintings. The vast deer park surrounding the mansion adds to the property's allure, creating a tranquil and picturesque setting.

5. Cragside – A Technological Marvel and Victorian Masterpiece

Cragside, nestled in Northumberland, England, is a Victorian mansion that boasts a remarkable distinction—it was the first house in the world to be fully powered by hydroelectricity. Built for Sir William Armstrong, this architectural masterpiece showcases a blend of Tudor, Baroque, and Neo-Gothic styles. Its extensive gardens feature stunning rock formations, beautiful woodland, and a vast collection of plants from around the world.

6. Baddesley Clinton – A Medieval Moated Manor with Hidden Priest Holes

Baddesley Clinton, situated in Warwickshire, England, is a medieval moated manor steeped in history and mystery. This stunning house offers a glimpse into the life of its former residents and their secrets. From hidden priest holes to tales of religious persecution, Baddesley Clinton stands as a testament to the resilience of those who sought refuge during turbulent times.

7. Mount Stewart – An Elegant Irish Stately Home with Spectacular Gardens

Mount Stewart, located in County Down, Northern Ireland, is a magnificent stately home filled with opulent interiors and surrounded by colorful gardens. The house reflects the refined tastes of its former owners, the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family. The gardens at Mount Stewart are a work of art themselves, featuring various themed areas, rare plants, and stunning vistas of the nearby Strangford Lough.

8. Knole – A Vast and Enigmatic Elizabethan Mansion

Knole, situated in Kent, England, is an awe-inspiring mansion that dates back to the 15th century. This extraordinary house boasts an impressive 52 rooms, including a magnificent Marble Hall, and has been home to many influential figures throughout history. Its sprawling parkland is an integral part of the property and houses a wild deer herd, adding a touch of magic to the overall experience.

9. Calke Abbey – A Decaying Beauty Frozen in Time

Calke Abbey, located in Derbyshire, England, is a unique National Trust property that has been preserved in a state of beautiful decay. This 18th-century country house offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore its vast rooms filled with crumbling grandeur. Calke Abbey's faded opulence and well-preserved unseen quarters provide a hauntingly fascinating experience for history enthusiasts.

10. Bateman's – Rudyard Kipling's Idyllic Retreat

Bateman's, nestled in East Sussex, England, was once the beloved countryside retreat of the world-renowned author, Rudyard Kipling. This charming Jacobean house offers visitors an intimate glimpse into Kipling's life and writing inspirations. Surrounded by picturesque gardens and rolling hills, Bateman's presents a serene escape, echoing the tranquility that influenced Kipling's literary works.

Uncover the Intrigue of National Trust Homes

The National Trust houses mentioned above represent just a fraction of the extraordinary properties maintained by this esteemed organization. Each house has a captivating history and unique architectural features that draw visitors to explore their remarkable grounds and immerse themselves in the past.

Whether you're intrigued by the life of famous personalities, fascinated by the evolution of architectural styles, or simply enjoy strolling through picturesque gardens, the National Trust homes offer an abundance of enriching experiences for everyone.

So, why not plan a visit to one of these incredible homes and discover the stories that shaped our culture?

Houses of the National Trust: Homes with History

by Lydia Greeves (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	158496 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	956 pages

FREE

This captivating book, fully revised and updated and featuring more NT houses than ever before, is a guide to some of the greatest architectural treasures of Britain, encompassing both interior and exterior design.

This new edition is fully revised and updated and includes entries for new properties including: Acorn Bank, Claife Viewing Station, Cushendun, Cwmdu, Fen Cottage, The Firs (birthplace of Edward Elgar), Hawker's Hut, Lizard Wireless Station, Totternhoe Knolls and Trelissick.

The houses covered include spectacular mansions such as Petworth House and Waddesdon Manor, and more lowly dwellings such as the Birmingham Back to Backs and estate villages like Blaise Hamlet, near Bristol. In addition to houses, the book also covers fascinating buildings as diverse as churches, windmills, dovecotes, castles, follies, barns and even pubs.

The book also acts as an overview of the country's architectural history, with every period covered, from the medieval stronghold of Bodiam Castle to the clean-lined Modernism of The Homewood.

Teeming with stories of the people who lived and worked in these buildings: wealthy collectors (Charles Wade at Snowshill), captains of industry (William Armstrong at Cragside), prime ministers (Winston Churchill at Chartwell) and pop stars (John Lennon at Mendips).

Written in evocative, imaginative prose and illustrated with glorious images from the National Trust's photographic library, this book is an essential guide to the built heritage of England, Wales and Northern Ireland.