Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens (English Heritage)

Groups can explore a succession of mansions spanning four centuries; from a 14th-century castle, via a Jacobean mansion wing, to a noble Regency Greek revival hall. The magical Quarry Garden was designed with ravines, pinnacles and sheer rock faces, inspired by Sicilian quarries. Now, centuries later, its exotic plants have reached full maturity. Whatever time of year you visit, there’s always something colourful in bloom.