Discover Your Countryside – Stately Homes

One of the more charming aspects of the great British Isles is its celebration of history and tradition, and no where is this more evident than in an Englishman’s own home…his castle! With so much history and drama often embroiled in many homes, gardens, castles and other historical properties, the UK’s handful of preserved stately homes are the perfect places in which to uncover more about times past and the majestic beauty that proceeds them.

Countryman Fairs five award-winning events are set in the grounds of some of the finest country homes and grounds within the British countryside. The eighteenth century Kelmarsh estate is nestled proudly within the Northampton and Leicestershire countryside and is surrounded by a remarkable 3000 acres of stunning parkland. Completed in 1732, the Kelmarsh Estate is steeped in history and is an example of a truly British estate that offers breath-taking scenery. Having undergone several changes over the years, today’s Kelmarsh possesses Georgian grace of the highest order with romantic gardens bearing all the hallmarks of several prestigious designers.

From the enchanting charm of Kelmarsh to the magnificent grandeur of Highclere Castle in Newbury, Highclere Castle is one of England’s most spectacular Victorian stately homes and stands proudly amid 1,000 acres of beautiful parkland. Home to the Carnarvon family since 1679, the Castle is said to have been built on the foundations of what was the medieval palace owned by the Bishop of Winchester. The current 8th Earl and Countess remain closely involved in its day-to-day life and future.

Another of our celebrated country events takes place in the stately home of Parham Park in West Sussex. A family home since 1577, the stately home of Parham Park is one of our oldest locations with a history spanning over 400 years. Possessing beautiful Elizabethan architecture, Parham is set amid 300 acres of parkland where fallow deer roam freely across its landscape.

Moving up into the Midlands, our biggest event in the sporting calendar, The Midland Game Fair is set within the grounds of the Weston Park estate and what was the ancestral home of the Earl of Bradford around 1671. Now in the care of it trustees, the Weston Park estate in Shropshire is continually undergoing restoration and improvement with the grounds often used for events, festivals and other public occasions.

Our newest event in the 2011 sporting calendar, the Lowther Game and Country Fair is set more north of the border in the beautiful Cumbrian countryside.  A predominantly rural county, Cumbria is home to the Lake District National Park and Lowther and its estates cover an impressive 75,000 acres. Lowther Castle has been the family seat of the Earls of Lonsdale from time immemorial, and occupies the site of mansions dating back to the reign of Edward I. As with many stately homes and castles in the UK, myth and tradition so very often follows, and according to ancient folklore, the Lowther Oak within its grounds is responsible for the good fortune of the Lonsdales. Bad luck will be bestowed on the family if the branch of the oak touches the ground. Today, the branch is propped up to prevent this!

The UK’s collection of stately homes and historical properties are a real asset to the country’s tourist trade, allowing people of all from all over the world to appreciate such architectural beauty. The National Trust works closely with the domestic and overseas travel industry and welcomes groups and visitors to a huge variety of suitable properties. Under its care, it has 300 historic houses, 200 parks and gardens in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. As a charity, the Trust is independent of government assistance and relies on the generosity of supporters to help with the protection and maintenance of some of its buildings. Helping to protect some of the UK’s most specialist places of interest, the Trust explains how four out of five historical houses run at a loss and without the kind donations from supporters and members, the history of these buildings at once becomes compromised.

To find out more about some truly inspiring stately homes and historical buildings, visit the National Trust’s website and learn about the heritage that surrounds you: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Countryman Fairs organise 5 award-winning Game and Country Fairs across the UK throughout the year, each showcasing the very best in country life. Browse our website for more information on all of Countryman Fairs award winning events and join us on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest news and developments as they happen.