The jaw-dropping National Trust properties less than an hour from Sheffield (aff)
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When the weather is sunny and warm, there are few things better than taking a short-trip to enjoy and explore the history and beauty of these National Trust properties.
South Yorkshire is rich in history and heritage, and the only thing that’s better is that with Derbyshire on our doorsteps we have access to so many wonderful places to visit.
Whether that’s visiting a stately home or exploring any number of country parks and the Peak District’s man moors and ancient woodlands.
Here is a list of six National Trust properties and places to visit, large and small, all less than an hour’s drive from Sheffield.
Wentworth Castle Gardens
This estate, rooted in vicious rivalry, provides a space to bring people together. This spectacular place was once known as ‘the finest garden in England’.
Today, it is South Yorkshire’s only Grade I registered landscape.
What is there to see?
Despite its turbulent past, Wentworth Castle Gardens’ breath-taking landscape now provides space for relaxation, reflection and opportunities for people to enjoy nature and beauty.
There are surprises along every avenue, including a castle that is not what it seems.
How can I get there?
You can travel there by car, rail, bus or even by bike and on foot.
If driving, you will need to: Exit M1 at junction 37 towards Barnsley.
Parking: Turn into Park Drive at the cross roads in Stainborough village and follow the road. Free parking close to visitor reception and overflow on the adjacent field, weather permitting.
Plan your bus journey here: https://www.goodjourney.org.uk/attractions/wentworth-castle-gardens/?title=%22Visit
For more travel information: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/yorkshire/wentworth-castle-gardens
Any tips?
If using a Sat Nav: Use postcode S75 3EN to arrive at the visitor entrance.
Mr Straw’s House
Step back in time to the 1920s and discover how a grocer's family lived in a Midlands market town through their furnishings and household objects.
What is there to see?
This modest semi-detached house has remained practically unchanged since the Straws moved here in 1923. For over 60 years, the Straws threw little away and chose to live without many of the modern comforts we take for granted today.
How can I get there?
Follow signs for Bassetlaw Hospital. Blyth Grove is a small private road off the B6045 Blyth Road, just south of Bassetlaw Hospital entrance. Out of courtesy to local residents, please park only in the car park.
Parking: Free car park in the orchard opposite the house. Please come to reception at 5 Blyth Grove on arrival.
Clumber Park
With over 3,800 acres of parkland to explore, there’s plenty to see and do at Clumber Park.
What is there to see?
Carved out of the ancient forest of Sherwood, explore the picturesque and beautifully maintained parkland and gardens, peaceful woodlands and a magnificent lake. It’s the perfect location for a long leisurely bike ride, with over 20 miles of accessible paths and multi-use trails through a variety of landscapes and terrains.
Clumber Park is a great place to spend the day with family and friends, plus your dog too!
How can I get there?
You can travel there by car, rail, bus or even by bike and on foot.
If driving, you will need to:
Enter via the A614 or B6034 to Lime Tree Avenue and main crossroads - parking in the main car park near central facilities and overflow car park.
Any tips?
Visit the Grade II* listed Ornamental Bridge, built between 1763-1770. It’s a great photo spot.
Make sure to bring water and a bowl for your dog, although there is access to taps to fill water bottles.
Sun-cream is always a sensible idea, especially on warmer days.
Hardwick Hall
Visit the National Trust’s Elizabethan masterpiece.
What is there to see?
It is a stunning English interpretation of Italian Renaissance Architecture. The Hardwick Estate is open every day, for countryside walks with picturesque views, woodland family play trails, locally sourced gifts in the shop and delicious seasonal menus in the restaurant.
How can I get there?
You can travel there by car, rail, bus or even by bike and on foot.
If driving: 8 miles south-east of Chesterfield; via A6175. Leave M1 exit 29, follow brown signs
Any tips?
If using a Sat Nav: Use postcode S44 5RW. This postcode will take you to the correct entrance point to the estate. However, this may take you along minor roads.
Longshaw, Burbage and the Eastern Moors
The stunning vistas of Longshaw, Burbage and the Eastern Moors showcase a beautiful part of the beauty of the Peak District.
What is there to see?
It is the perfect place to discover spectacular views of the Peak District, ancient woodlands, parkland and heather moorland.
How can I get there?
If using a Sat Nav: Use S11 7TZ to find Longshaw, and then please use brown signs to navigate to the car parks. There is a very sharp bend opposite the Fox House, please slow down there.
All Longshaw's car parks are open and there is no need to book (except for coaches). However, parking spaces are very limited.
Any tips?
Take only photos, light no fires and take all of your litter home with you.
Winster Market House
This is quite the historic and key location, especially when it comes to the National Trust.
What is there to see?
Winster Market House was the first property to be acquired by the National Trust in the Peak District in 1906 for just £50 (less than £8,000 today).
Its location and history makes it ideal for a short visit while enjoying a trip to the Peak District.
How can I get there?
Winster village can be easily accessed from the A6, north of Matlock.
Parking: There are only very small village car parks (not National Trust). Please be considerate of the local community.
Every penny raised by the trust goes towards looking after nature, beauty and history – for everyone, forever. Enjoy access to more than 500 places across the UK, plus car parking and more with a National Trust membership.
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