Dunham Massey

Dunham Massey is one of the National Trust’s most visited properties, bringing in over half a million people in 2023. We reckon at least 80% of them were Mancunians escaping the city for their nearest bucolic country park.

It’s about 20 minutes drive from the southern suburbs, making it an easy day-out if you’ve got a car. (It’s hard though not impossible to get there on pubic transport – check their website for details.)

Once there, most opt to wander through the parkland and gardens which are beautiful whatever the season. In the park, herds of deer roam between ancient oak trees. Highlights of the gardens include the glades of snowdrops in January and the scented archways of the rose garden in high summer.

The Christmas light trail is always very popular and for good reason – it’s an atmospheric, magical seasonal treat. Book early for this one.

With all this natural beauty around you, you’d be forgiven for overlooking the treasures found inside the house but it’s well worth exploring. Head in here to learn the history of Dunham Massey and to explore its artworks, curiosities, and rare pieces of furniture.

The visitor facilities had a major upgrade in 2013 to cope with the amount of people coming to the park. The cafe, restaurant and ice cream parlour still get busy at peak times, as do the paths and avenues on bright, sunny days. Go midweek for a quieter experience