What would you like for Christmas the year? If you’ve been thinking about the answer to this question, here’s something to consider. One of our favourite, family gifts is an annual membership, it’s low plastic (sometimes the cards are plastic, so not quite plastic free), creates no clutter and lasts all year!
Last Christmas, we asked for a Historic Houses membership, as we had spotted quite a few Historic Houses near Cheltenham and loved the idea of not having to pay to visit them!
So what is Historic Houses? They are a cooperative, not-for-profit, association, made up of over 1000 independently owned and operated houses, castles, and gardens of major historical importance. Most of the venues are privately owned, lived-in, homes, others are charities, museums, businesses, or institutions. Historic Houses represent, advise, and support locations to ensure that they remain for generations to come.
Here are our top 5 Historic Houses near Cheltenham:
- Sudeley Castle is just outside Winchcombe, approximately 20 minutes from Cheltenham. On arrival, park in the large free car park and check in at the kiosk. There are beautiful gardens to explore, as well as the castle and church. There is also a fantastic play area, which is worth returning for on its own (you can visit as many times as you like for the duration of your membership)! Currently, Sudeley Castle have an animal ark exhibition and virtual reality experience on offer too (included with entry).
2. Berkley Castle is 40 minutes from Cheltenham. They have a large, free car park, which is a short walk from the entrance. The grounds are beautifully maintained and the castle itself, which is over 850 year old, is wonderful and still inhabited by the Berkley family today! They have a Ghoul School event on this month, which sounds like the perfect Halloween activity for your little ghouls! If you are searching for wedding venues in Gloucestershire, Berkley Castle should absolutely be on your list to go and look at.
3. Sezincote is situated in the North Cotswolds, near Moreton in Marsh. A 45 minute drive from Cheltenham, this Indian inspired Garden and house is well worth exploring. Parking is free and just a short walk from the entrance (disabled parking also available). The water garden is full of stunning trees, rare plants and interesting statues and architecture and there’s even a tree swing to be found and enjoyed by all! Don’t forget to book your guided tour of the house, you won’t want to miss seeing the stunning room and amazing furniture on display.
4. Eastnor Castle in Ledbury is approximately a 40 minute drive from Cheltenham and is such a brilliant day out. My top tip would be to go on the lakeside walk to see stunning views of the castle (and a cheeky little obstacle course, paddling stream and EPIC rope swings along the way). Click the title for my post about this Historic House.
5. Painswick Rococo Gardens can be found between Stroud and Gloucester, approximately 30 minutes from Cheltenham. Dating back almost 300 years, these stunning gardens are well worth a visit! Parking is abundant, free and close to the entrance. There is a cafe on site, but plenty of room for picnics too. For children, there is a lovely, wooden play area, as well as sculptures and displays to keep them interested along the way. We enjoyed seeing wartime graffiti and visiting the viewpoint for glorious, countryside views.
Before you head out to your local Historic Houses venue, don’t forget to check opening times and book your tickets online if the venue recommends. Historic Houses membership really is the gift that keeps on giving and we can’t wait to carry on enjoying ours!
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