Holdenby House Garden & Falconry

Holdenby House is a garden visit with a remarkable story attached. In 1583 Sir Christopher Hatton finished what was then one of the largest houses in England, built around two great courtyards. Almost all of it was later pulled down, and today a Victorian house built in the style of the old mansion sits within gardens that are listed Grade I, the highest grade for historic gardens.

The most striking things to see are the survivors of Hatton's palace. Two Grade I listed archways, which once led into the courtyards, now stand alone on the lawn, and a near-identical third arch carries the date 1659, from the time of the Parliamentarian owner Adam Baynes. Walking between them helps you picture the scale of the lost building. The present house, adapted from the remaining wing in the 1870s, is the Lowther family's home, and the gardens and falconry centre are the main draw for day visitors.

The falconry centre adds a lot for families and makes Holdenby a good half-day outing rather than a quick garden stroll. After exploring, the Old Stableyard Tearoom is the place to stop. The estate is a private residence that opens to the public on a limited, paid basis, and it is also used for weddings, school visits and filming, including as Satis House in the BBC's Great Expectations in 2011. Because opening days are limited, it is worth checking dates carefully before you travel and booking where the site asks you to.