National Trust of the North West

Day 1

We depart the local area and make our way to Little Moreton Hall (NT). It's not your eyes playing tricks on you. Seeing the tumbling architecture of Little Moreton Hall for the first time, engineers in 1990 could not believe their eyes either. This timber-framed building, curled around with a scenic moat, has defied logic for over 500 years. Step back in time inside this higgledy-piggledy house and discover what every day Tudor life tells us about the way we live today. We arrive at the 4* Park Royal Hotel & Spa ready to settle in before dinner.

Day 2

This morning we enjoy a visit to Liverpool. This afternoon we visit Speke Hall, built by the devout Catholic Norris family, eager to impress visitors with the grandeur of their home, Speke Hall embodies more than 400 years of turbulent history. Its secret priest hole reflects Catholic persecution in the Tudor period, whilst much of the Hall's upkeep was financed by the Norris family and later by the Wyatt family's longstanding involvement in transatlantic slavery. During the 18th & 19th centuries Speke Hall experienced years of neglect and decay, including a spell when it was used as a cow shed. Finally, pulled into the Victorian era of improvement and technology, the Hall was resuscitated with a Gothic revival style.

Day 3

This morning we make our way to Quarry Bank Mill (NT). Founded in 1783, the mill was built to harness the flow of the mighty river, but it became home to an industry community, and is now "one of Britain's greatest industrial heritage sites". This afternoon we visit Dunham Massey (NT). Indoors, the ornate rooms and servant's quarters hold a collection that spans the history of the house, while the water-powered mill and other historic buildings add further context that beckons you into the past. Outdoors, the accessible paths pass roaming fallow deer and ancient trees in the parkland. Across the moat, the Georgian house offers a backdrop to the formal gardens.

Day 4

After a leisurely breakfast we make our way to Tatton Park, one of the most complete historical estates in the country. With acres of parkland and gardens to explore, an impressive 18th century mansion, and a historic working farm.

Day 5

We depart after a leisurely breakfast and return home with a stop on route, arriving back late afternoon.

D=Dinner, B=Breakfast