The top National Trust inspired staycation spots revealed

If you’re drawn to captivating historic settings and stunning landscapes, planning a trip around a National Trust property offers the perfect enriching break. Travel insurance experts at Confused.com have curated a list of the top conserved properties across the UK to plan a staycation around.

The National Trust has over 5.37 million members(1), but their properties welcome non-members too. It’s estimated that almost half of British households don’t have access to green space(2), making National Trust spots important, as they offer access to nature with 642,437 acres of land. In 2023/24 they needed £767.7 million for their projects, showing public backing is essential.(3)

Hardy’s House, Max Gate, Dorchester, South West England
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

Open: 5 days a week (Tuesday – Thursday & weekends)

Non-member entry cost: £11 adults, £5.50 children (under 5s free)

Visit the environment that inspired an icon, Hardy’s House, Max Gate(4). The property was designed by, and home to, the renowned English author Thomas Hardy. The house heavily influenced his work, particularly due to archaeological discoveries he made on the site, including Roman burials and a large post-glacial stone(5).

The house sits just outside the vibrant town of Dorchester; it’s a 5-minute drive away and under half an hour on foot or via public transport. There are 100 other attractions to explore there, such as:

Sculptures by the Lakes: Marvellous sculptures set amongst the backdrop of beautiful botanical gardens.
Dorset Museum and Art Gallery: From Jurassic Coast dinosaur remains to literary archives and artwork, it’s a haven for culture enthusiasts.
In terms of accommodation, there are 105 hotels and 313 Airbnbs locally. Choose from quaint lodges, cottages, inns and manors to chains like Premier Inn.

Nuffield Place, Henley-on-Thames, South East England
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

Open: 5 days a week (Wednesday – Sunday)

Non-member entry cost: £13 adult, £6.50 child (under 5s free)

Pre-booking for tours is essential and advised for self-paced entry.

Step into the early 20th century at Nuffield Place(6). The property was once owned by philanthropist and entrepreneurial founder of the car manufacturer Morris Motors, Lord Nuffield. Visitors can explore the charming house and ‘Arts and Crafts’ style gardens.

The site is close to Henley-on-Thames, around 16 minutes’ drive or 25 minutes on public transport. Henley boasts 63 things to do, including:

Boat hire: Book from a range of boating options to enjoy a serene day on the river taking in the views.
Warburg Nature Reserve: The scenic sanctuary spanning 262 acres is packed with wildlife, plants and walking trails. For animal lovers, keep an eye out for roaming deer and kites flying above.
There are extensive accommodation options to choose from, with 296 hotels and 584 Airbnbs close by.

Townend, Windermere, North West England
TripAdvisor rating: 4.7

Open: 4 days a week (Tuesday – Friday)

Non-member entry cost: £11.00 adult, £5.50 child (under 5s free)

The modest, yet characterful farmhouse and garden, Townend(7), give an insight into 17th-Century life. The traditional building was home to the farming Browne family for over 400 years, whose treasures are preserved. The last inhabitant, George Browne, was a keen craftsman, whose carefully carved furniture is exhibited. The library is also a must-see, with a collection of 45 unique books that you can’t see anywhere else(8).

The property is a short 8-minute drive from Windermere, 40 minutes on public transport or an hour-long walk. There are 75 iconic attractions in the whimsical town, including:

Lake Windermere: Marvel at the beauty of the lake by hiking around, taking a cruising tour or hiring a boat.
The World of Beatrix Potter: Explore the beloved whimsical world created by Beatrix Potter, which was greatly inspired by her time in Windermere.
You’ll be spoilt for choice with accommodation; there are 254 hotel options and 164 Airbnbs, many of which offer spectacular views of the lakes.

Attingham Park, Shrewsbury, West Midlands
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

Open: Everyday

Non-member entry cost: £17.00 adults, £8.50 child (under 5s free)

Attingham Park (9) is a picturesque estate, perfect for exploring. Spanning 200 acres, it features an idyllic Regency mansion, a restored walled garden, a deer park, a natural playground and more. The property and surrounding land were owned by the Berwick family for over 160 years, who originally acquired their riches through involvement in politics, land ownership, moneylending and mining.

The property is under a 20-minute drive away from Shrewsbury, or around 45 minutes on public transport. Shrewsbury boasts over 260 other attractions, including:

Hawkstone Park Follies: Walking trails amongst incredible woodland, wildlife, follies and caves set against breathtaking landscapes.
Shrewsbury Castle: Discover the 1000-year history through architecture, artefacts and ruins of military walls.
In terms of accommodation, there’s an offering of 84 hotels and 206 Airbnbs to choose from. Many are townhouse style, capturing Shrewsbury’s character.

Lavenham Guildhall, Sudbury, East England
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5

Open: Everyday

Non-member entry cost: £10.00 adults, £5.00 child (under 5s free)

Pre-booking required for groups

Built in the early 16th century, Lavenham Guildhall(10) represents the heritage of the surrounding village, which grew its wealth through the cloth trade. The building has a rich history since its role changed as the village did. It was originally a meeting place for wealthy Catholic merchants, but it’s also been a prison, workhouse and social club (during WWII). You can learn stories of past inhabitants from different points in the properties’ past.

The Guildhall is around a 15-minute drive outside of Sudbury or 40 minutes via public transport. There are 42 other things to do, including:

Sudbury Water Meadow: A tranquil combination of nature and wildlife, perfect for walking trails.
The Talbot Trail: This unique trail follows 14 statues depicting moments in the town’s history, allowing you to learn while you explore.
There are 85 hotels and 112 Airbnbs to choose from. You can stay in the heart of the town or outside, surrounded by countryside.

Alvaro Inturmendi, travel insurance expert at Confused.com, shares tips on planning UK staycations:

“Assess the pros and cons of transport options: Research the route to the destination, as well as the journeys to your chosen excursions beforehand. Weigh up what works best for you in terms of getting there. Driving will allow you more flexibility, as you won’t be reliant on a departures schedule or at risk of cancellations and delays. However, if you drive, you’ll have to factor in traffic and parking costs.
“Plan activities in advance: Planning excursions in advance will give you a wider range of choice, help avoid missing out and reduce stress. Certain activities might get booked up quickly, particularly in the summer holidays, and booking ahead can sometimes work out cheaper. Even for activities where booking isn’t required, you should still do your research, as their websites may share peak times or advice so you can plan your visit accordingly.
“Don’t forget insurance: Despite medical emergencies being covered by the NHS, insurance for UK holidays can still be beneficial to protect you financially. It can cover you in cases of lost or stolen baggage and unexpected cancellations. For example, if you have to cancel your trip or cut it short due to circumstances like illness or bereavement. What’s covered will depend on the individual policy, so be sure to read the terms and conditions. If you have an existing annual policy, you may already be covered.”