Northern England is blessed with a range of excellent heritage buildings, stately homes and castles that are all within driving distance from Sheffield.
The buildings are often packed with history, tremendous scenery and lots of green space - making them an excellent place to enjoy a leisurely stroll with family and friends during the summer holidays.
More often than not these places also boast excellent cafes and restaurants - creating a tranquil atmosphere for those wishing to enjoy anything from afternoon tea or breakfast to a terrific meal and a beer in the sunshine.
With that in mind, with the school holidays in full swing, we have rounded up some of the best stately homes and heritage buildings within driving distance from Sheffield.
1. Brodsworth Hall and Gardens - Doncaster
Brodsworth Hall and Gardens, managed by English Heritage, was built in the 1860s. After falling into disrepair, the Victorian pleasure gardens have been restored to their former glory, while the house has been conserved to tell the stories of the generations of people who lived and worked there.
2. Wentworth Woodhouse - near Rotherham
Wentworth Woodhouse is a Grade I listed country house in the village of Wentworth near Rotherham. It is one of the largest Georgian houses in England, built for the 1st Marquess of Rockingham. It has a suite of grand State Rooms and 50 acres of private gardens along with an excellent cafe.
3. Cusworth Hall - Doncaster
Often described as a jewel in Doncaster’s crown, Cusworth Hall is a beautiful Grade I listed building situated within two miles from the city centre. Set in acres of historic parkland, the house was built between 1740 and 1744 and its refurbishments have now turned it into a social history museum.
4. Castle Howard - Henderskelfe near York
Castle Howard, near Malton, is arguably one of the most-recognised stately homes in Yorkshire. It was built in 1700 and contains both Baroque and Palladium architecture. It’s a lovely day out for the whole family with a shop on site and a courtyard cafe. | hoto: Charlotte Graham.