Experience the variety of architecture and fascinating histories within a selection of country houses across Yorkshire
Discover incredible collections of art and historical objects – from porcelain and fashion at Lotherton Hall to fine furniture at Burton Constable Hall
Wander through the flourishing gardens of Temple Newsam, Sledmere House, and Thirsk Hall
“Andrew Taylor was quite outstanding: learned, thoroughly prepared, endlessly kind and helpful, with lots of local knowledge"
– ACE customer on a 2025 country house tour led by Andrew Taylor
The rolling hills and dramatic scenery of Yorkshire bear a rich heritage spanning many centuries, and we will delve into one facet of the county’s history by exploring a selection of superb country houses.
Lotherton Hall was donated to the city of Leeds by Sir Alvary Gascoigne in 1968 and converted into a museum the following year. The estate’s nationalisation has allowed for the preservation of both its Victorian and Edwardian architecture, and its collections of over 3,000 objects, from Eastern and Victorian porcelain, to exquisite jewellery and historic garments in the Fashion Galleries.
The collections at Burton Constable Hall also house several artistic highlights including classic Chippendale furniture, Georgian telescopes, and tiny intaglio stone portraits. Meanwhile, Farnley Hall – famous for inspiring a number of works by J M W Turner – contains a range of further artwork within elegant interiors spanning several centuries.
The captivating history of East Riddlesden Hall is evident in its architecture, where the original 14th century framework endures in the Starkie Wing alongside 18th century additions and in the Great Hall, which displays an intricate Flemish tapestry thought to depict a scene in the life of Alexander the Great.
Temple Newsam, a Tudor mansion with Elizabethan and Jacobean additions, was recorded in the Doomsday Book and later briefly owned by the Knights Templar, with historic gardens designed by Capability Brown. Sledmere House presents us with further horticultural beauties, including a traditional walled garden, borders brimming with exotic plants and wonderful topiary. A final highlight will be Thirsk Hall, where we will explore exquisite Georgian architecture alongside its vibrant gardens.
We will stay at the four-star Malmaison, set in a handsome former 1960s office block, located in the heart of York. Bright, comfortable interiors meet contemporary design, offering a welcoming base for our visits and independent exploration in the city.
Andrew Taylor
Andrew is an experienced tour leader with expertise in the architecture and art collections of the English country house.
5
£1795
CHYK-26
