View of the front of the castle with two Christmas trees at Sizergh Castle, Cumbria — Christmas time at Sizergh Castle, Cumbria | © National Trust Images/Steven Barber

Houses and buildings

From grand houses and palaces to cotton mills and urban homes, the historic houses and buildings in our care are full of fascinating stories and objects.

Winter house closures

Some of the historic houses in our care close over the winter months so we can carry out vital conservation work. Please check the web page for the place you'd like to visit for up-to-date information on opening times.

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Historic houses decked out for Christmas

Step back in time when you visit a historic house decorated for the festive season. From medieval tradition to modern sparkle, crafting to carol singing, there's plenty to see and join in with too.

An elevated view of the decorative exterior of the house at Cragside, Northumberland

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Unique houses

Learn about some of the most unusual houses we look after and find out what makes them so special, from a tiny woodland cottage to a romantic country retreat.

Black and white Tudor hall with autumn tree to the right

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Places with Tudor connections

Discover the places we look after that have links to the Tudor period, from Henry VII through to Elizabeth I. These historic houses have received royal visitors, hidden Catholic priests and witnessed important events.

The Great Hall at Knole in Kent looking towards the ornately carved wooden screen across one wall and geometrically patterned white plaster ceiling of squares and octagons

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Places with a royal story to tell

Bring history to life and learn about some of the best royal connections to the places we look after, from a warrior king and ghost queen to traitors of the crown.