What's On
Photo of an adult with a child on their shoulders and a dog by their side looking out at the coast with the bridge at Tintagel Castle in the background

Things to do in winter

Don't let the colder days keep you indoors. With hundreds of historic places to discover, don't let the colder days keep you indoors. It's time to stop hibernating - and start exploring!

Winter is a wonderful time to see frosty landscapes and enjoy our seasonal events across the country.

And if you fancy something more relaxing, we've got suggestions for peaceful walks, tips for taking top photos and deep reads to inspire your sense of adventure.

A view of Audley End House and the bridge leading up to it on a frosty morning.

The best gardens to visit in winter

There's nothing like a fresh winter walk through a beautiful historic garden.

Our castles, halls and stately homes are enchanting in the colder seasons, and now is the perfect time to make the most of rewarding garden walks and sparkling wintry views.

Find a winter garden to visit

Plan a winter day out

  • Dog-friendly days out

    We love dogs as much as you do, so there's no reason to leave your furry friend at home. We've got lots of options for dog-friendly days out at our castles, abbeys and historic gardens.

  • Top places to visit

    Take a closer look at some of our favourite historic places. Discover what we love about them, then plan your own adventure in the places where history happened.

  • Places to escape the crowds

    Get away from it all with a trip to one of our more secluded properties. From Birdoswald Roman Fort in Cumbria all the way down to ancient sites on the Isles of Scilly, find the best places for a peaceful day out this winter.

Winter Walks

A high angle view of two children and an adult walking down the steps at Tintagel Castle.

Guided itineraries with everything you need

Whether you’re looking for an amble or an invigorating hike, we’ve curated a selection of walks that take in some of our most atmospheric properties.

Find a walk near you
Two women smile and look at a display of Christmas trees at Wrest Park.

Places to visit between Christmas and New Year

Wrap up the year with a memorable winter day out at our properties. We’re open between Christmas and New Year for you to explore England’s history, whether you're looking for a peaceful wander by yourself or planning a big family day out.

Find a place to visit between Christmas and New Year

Winter Recipes from the Victorian Era

Mrs Crocombe's Cosiest Dishes

The kitchens of country houses such as Audley End House, Brodsworth Hall and Witley Court were busy year-round, including through the winter months, as staff prepared warming dishes for the household and their guests.

With our The Victorian Way video series, join Mrs Avis Crocombe — the cook at Audley End House in Essex — as she prepares a range of winter meals, side dishes and tasty treats to inspire your own home cooking this winter.

Explore the full playlist

  • Simple Soup

    Tasty and filling with bacon, onion and vegetables

  • Rabbit Pudding

    Hearty pastry-cased pudding to warm the bones

  • Macaroni Cheese

    One of housekeeper Mrs Warwick's favourites