Time well spent at the National Trust
In celebration of national picnic week, we have listed some of our favourite National Trust parks around Staffordshire and Shropshire to enjoy a picnic in the sun. What better way to get back out there and enjoy some of these beautiful grounds.
Don't forget... If you are heading to visit National Trust sites, remember to check if you need to book first!
Biddulph Grange Garden
Grange Road, Biddulph, Staffordshire, ST8 7SD
Created by James Bateman these beautiful gardens are home for his vast collection of plants from around the world.
You are transported on a global journey with each section of the gardens. From Italy to the pyramids of Egypt, a Victorian vision of China and a re-creation of a Himalayan glen, there is so much to enjoy.
The garden features collections of rhododendrons, summer bedding displays, a stunning Dahlia Walk and the oldest surviving golden larch in Britain, brought from China in the 1850s.
Find out more here.
Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses
Holy Austin Rock Houses, Compton Road, Kinver, near Stourbridge, Staffordshire, DY7 6DL
'With sweeping views, a wildlife haven in the heath and unique homes carved straight into the rock...Kinver Edge is full of surprises.'
Go exploring amongst the swirling sandstone rock caves nestled amongst beautiful woodlands.
photo www.expressandstar.co.uk
'Just outside is the heathland of Kinver Edge - a pocket of wilderness, buzzing with insects and heady with the scent of gorse and purple heather. A stroll along the sandstone ridge offers dramatic views across surrounding counties from the ramparts of an imposing Iron Age Hill Fort. Beyond the views miles of walking country awaits, winding through birch and oak woodland and exposed areas of red sandstone geology.' - National Trust
Find out more here.
Dudmaston
Quatt, near Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV15 6QN
'Enchanted wooded parkland, sweeping gardens and a house with a surprise, Dudmaston is something unexpected in the Shropshire countryside.' - National Trust
Tranquil, serene and settings and a beautiful Orchard, Dudmaston is an ideal place for a picnic stop. You can also explore Big Pool and Dingle woods, while the wider estate provides extensive walking routes for year round enjoyment.
Find out more here.
Benthall Hall
Broseley, Shropshire, TF12 5RX
The historic Benthall Hall have been family owned for over 500 years and boast a truly beautiful 16th-century country stone house and surrounding gardens.
'In the garden there are fabulous crocus displays to be seen in the spring and autumn, there's also an intimate and carefully restored plantsman's garden, an old kitchen garden and interesting Restoration church.' - National Trust
Find out more here.
