Exploring the estate at Dunsland

Recently planted trees in a field at Dunsland — Recently planted at Dunsland | © National Trust Images/Mel Peters

This tranquil, ancient parkland once befitted the grand house that stood in its midst. The park is home to a variety of trees, resident wildlife and is the perfect spot for a walk or a picnic.

Things to see and do on the estate at Dunsland

Take a walk

For those planning a walk at Dunsland, from the car park visitors can follow the old carriageway up to the site of the old house.

You're free to wander the parkland in front of the 'house' and then follow the track by the Old Coach House to the orchard.

Discover the site of the house

Dunsland House, Tudor in origin, stood on this site for hundreds of years. It passed through seven families, before it was bought by the National Trust in 1954.

Thirteen years later, in 1967, it was destroyed by fire, just before it was due to open to the public. All that remains is the old stable and coach house.

Spot the resident wildlife

The park is home to a variety of trees, including 700-year-old sweet chestnuts and old fruit trees, such as Landkey Yellow, Listener, Johnny Voun and Devon Quarrendon. The trees support many rare lichens and provide a rich habitat for wildlife.

Colourful bluebells and primroses can be seen in spring and you may hear the rustle of dormice and roe deer. Look out for dippers and sparrow hawks too.

Large, twisted sweet chestnut tree on a sunny day at Dunsland — Ancient sweet chestnut tree | © National Trust Images/Mel Peters

Enjoy a picnic

Where the house once stood is a great place for a picnic with views out towards the parkland. It’s a great place to sit and relax with the sounds of birds and insects all around you.

Children of all ages will love to explore the remains of Dunsland - each time you visit you will see something new.