Dunham Massey is a stately home in Cheshire, England which used to belong to the Earl of Warrington. The house was extended and developed over the years creating the Georgian splendour you see today. When visiting, you will marvel at the huge house, feel relaxed in the picturesque gardens and explore the 300 acre deer park.
We felt this huge house was actually very ‘homely’. It was lived in until 1976 when the then owner Roger Grey, Earl of Stamford, handed it over to the National Trust. He’d spent his life restoring the property to its former glory but had no heir to pass it on to. There are several rooms in the house which will stick in your memory. The highlight for us was the small oak-panelled library which is packed with educational books and a stunning orrery. The Great Hall was striking too (pictured above) with its huge fireplace. We also liked the huge windows in the Dining Room and the small breakfast area with a view over the lake.
One of the big highlights at Dunham Massey is the preservation of the servant areas. You really get a feel for how self sufficient the house way. The old kitchen is stunning, as is the Butler’s Pantry. You can even visit the meat store! There are then there are further areas which all can be accessed from a pretty servant courtyard (pictured below).
Behind one door in this courtyard you’ll find the the old Diary which still has much of its original equipment. Next door is the Laundry Room. There are huge racks for drying in here using the sunlight from the large windows. Look out for the stove with its many irons too. Behind the drying room is the washing area with a series of original wooden sinks.
Outside there is the huge deer park to explore and also the mill, but we loved the gardens the most. The lawned area and the lake for the centrepieces, surrounded by exotic planting. There is a small canal-style waterway which is fed from the lake and cuts through the gardens. The lush planting surrounding this area in particular was beautiful, packed with flowers and flowering shrubs. There is a small formal garden at the rear of the house too.
The park and gardens are open all year round and there is a modern cafe and visitor complex to welcome you. We enjoyed eating in the older Stables Restaurant with its many original features however. The house is only open in the warmer months of the year and adult admission to the full property is £22 (2026 prices). The property is free for National Trust members.
LOCATION & CONTACT
Address: Dunham Massey Hall, Dunham, Altrincham, Cheshire WA14 4SJ
Phone: 0161 941 1025
MORE ON DUNHAM MASSEY
Dunham Massey – National Trust
Dunham Massey – Wikipedia
Stay Near Dunham Massey – Booking.com