Historic Buildings & Country Houses

Castle Howard

Home to the Howard family for over 300 years, Castle Howard, near York, is a magnificent 18th-century residence set within 1,000 acres of breathtaking landscape. Many people will recognise its distinctive architecture as the location for various film sets including Brideshead Revisted (1981 and 2008) and Garfield (2006). It has a world-renowned garden with woodland and lakeside walks, and an adventure playground. There is also a popular farm shop and plant centre. Visit: www.castlehoward.co.uk

Constable Burton Hall

Set in beautiful countryside at the entrance to Wensleydale, this extensive romantic garden is surrounded by 18th century parkland with a superb John Carr house (not open). Fine trees and woodland walks combine with an interesting collection of alpines and extensive shrubs and roses. Explore the stream garden with its large architectural plants and reflection ponds. Open mid March to end of September. Visit: www.constableburtongardens.co.uk

Harewood House

Built in the mid-18th century, Harewood House has magnificent interiors by Robert Adam, furniture by Thomas Chippendale and paintings by Turner, Reynolds, Titian and El Greco. Additional attractions include extensive gardens, adventure play area and a popular bird garden. It is 5 miles from Wetherby and the A1. Visit: www.harewood.org

Kiplin Hall

This striking Jacobean country house - just down the road from Brompton Lakes - was built in the 1620s for George Calvert, Secretary of State to James I, later 1st Lord Baltimore and founder of Maryland, USA. The Hall is now furnished as a welcoming Victorian family home, with examples of works from the 19th century Arts and Crafts Movement, and fascinating items including Admiral Lord Nelson’s library chair from H.M.S. Victory, and part of the block of wood on which Charles I was beheaded - allegedly! There are also beautiful gardens and lakeside walks. Visit:www.kiplinhall.co.uk

Newby Hall

Built under the guidance of Sir Christopher Wren in the 17th century, this impressive house has a fine collection of classical statuary and some of Chippendale's finest furniture. It is set within 25 acres of award-winning gardens, full of rare and beautiful plants. Other attractions include: an adventure garden for children, with an aerial slide and pedalo boats; a miniature railway; sculpture park and woodland discovery walk. Open Easter to end of September. Visit: www.newbyhall.com

Castle Bolton

Located in the heart of Wensleydale, this spectacular medieval fortress was completed by Sir Richard Le Scrope in 1399. It has had a colourful history and Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned here in 1569. Visit: www.boltoncastle.co.uk

Middleham Castle

Once the childhood home of Richard III, Middleham Castle has had an illustrious history. Although roofless, extensive remains of the fortified palace still survive, making it a fascinating place to explore. Visit: www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/middleham-castle

Raby Castle

Built by the Nevill family in the 14th century, Raby is one of finest medieval castles in England. Every room, from the magnificent Barons' Hall, where 700 knights gathered to plot the 'Rising of the North', to the medieval kitchen which was used until 1954, gives an insight to life throughout the ages. It also houses a fantastic art collection and splendid interiors. The castle is located 8 miles north east of Barnard Castle. Visit: www.rabycastle.com

Richmond Castle

With its breathtaking views of the Yorkshire Dales, Richmond Castle was originally built to subdue the unruly North of England and is one of the greatest Norman fortresses in Britain. An interactive exhibition unveils the castle’s past and guests can also enjoy the secluded Cockpit Garden. The castle has a fun and exciting events programme throughout the year. Visit: www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/richmond-castle

Easby Abbey

The tranquil ruins of Easby Abbey - founded in 1152 by the Premonstratensian monks - are just a short walk from Brompton Lakes. It is open all year round with free admission.

Fountains Abbey

Yorkshire’s first World Heritage site, Fountains Abbey is a huge estate of naturally beautiful countryside, including the largest abbey ruins in the country and one of England’s most spectacular Georgian water gardens. It is situated 9 miles from the A1 near Ripon. Visit: www.fountainsabbey.org.uk

Jervaulx Abbey

The atmospheric ruins of Jervaulx Abbey - founded in 1156 - are situated halfway between Masham and Leyburn on the A6108. The Abbey which was once a great Cistercian monastery was plundered and pillaged during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century. Visit: www.jervaulxabbey.com