National Trust Sites Near Liverpool

Just north of the city lies a golden stretch of coast and rolling dunes belted by a thick pine forest. Formby is one of the most significant biological reserves in the north of England. Visitors can expect walks along the beach or through the nearby asparagus fields; or head on a nature walk and get the chance to see rare red squirrels.

The Industrial Revolution was one of the most significant periods of change in British history. You can find evidence of it all over the UK. The Quarry Bank is one of the best-kept industrial heritage sites you can visit. Both the 18th century mill and waterwheel (once the most powerful in Europe) are open to visit year-round.

Also in the Cheshire area, Lyme was home to an aristocratic family during the Regency era and still stands today on the western edge of the Peak District. As well as being a site of great historical interest, it offers garden walks, a playground and you can even visit the spot where Mr Darcy met Miss Bennett in the famous BBC adaptation of Pride and Prejudice.

Another historic house, this time from the Tudor era. Speke Hall sits on the banks of the River Mersey and contains a fascinating range of historical curiosities. Perhaps most notably, it has a priest hole – a hiding place for members of the clergy during the persecution of Catholics under Henry VIII. It is also surrounded by beautiful gardens and woodland.

Just under an hour east of Liverpool by car and once owned by the Egerton family, the Tatton Park estate is now owned and maintained by the National Trust and Cheshire Council. The 19th-century stately home is flanked by 1000 acres of deer park and 50 acres of landscaped garden. It also plays host to more than 100 events a year so it’s always a good idea to check what’s on.

Heading south into Wales is well worth the journey, even just to see this medieval artefact. Chirk Castle was built in 1310 under Edward I. It has seen battles, contests of ownership and plenty more in its 700-year history. If you’re feeling outdoorsy, there is an enormous area of surrounding estate to explore.