Croome Court, nr Pershore, Worcestershire
A Palladian style mansion house set in Capability Brown parkland, quintessentially English, with a lake and temples, follies and statues dotted about. Of particular note is the church on the hill and the Rotunda; both have far reaching views across the spectacular landscape to the Malvern Hills.
Make the most of the opportunity for the little ones to run around and let off some steam; there’s a family trail and an RAF themed playground which harks back to the Second World War when Croome’s nearest neighbour was a secret airbase. Inside it’s not what you’d expect due to its varied guises since the second World War; a school, headquarters for a Hare Krishna society, an unsuccessful hotel, and in more modern times, a family home. So instead of the usual antiques and finery, the rooms are used as the background to temporary art exhibitions and installations; it’s quite some twist, but it works, and besides there are still elements of the history you can find out about – some of the 30 fireplaces are quite incredible, and you can see conservationists at work and chat with them. Whilst you’re here visit the RAF Museum, the gift shop and the 1940s style canteen.
Open Apr-Oct: Park 9.00am-5.30pm House & Museum 11.00am-4.30pm Dogs on leads welcome
All information correct at the time of writing