National Trust - Lanhydrock — Attraction in Great Britain

My rating is 3 stars + really. Expectations were high, from the NT book. First issue was that roadside signage to Lanhydrock is not great. Car parking is plentiful. Attendants in all the right places at the right times, friendly cheerful and helpful. It's a long walk from car park to the house but only two minutes to loos, kids play area and coffee shop for those in urgent need of one or all. There are "taxis" for older ones or those with mobility problems. The distance is a clue to the scale of this imposing property with its acres of open grassland rising to extensive camellia, rhododendron and hydrangea woodland good for colour from early spring through to late summer then, dropping to the formal gardens and large house. All good for walking, with interweaving paths. Second issue was that the map is poor with paths being cropped at the edges and some appearing inaccurately drawn. The church in the grounds was a curiosity until you discover it was there in the midst of a small religious community before the Robartes arrived. The church was never part of the family estate but there was also a single floor dwelling immediately behind the church, accounting for their close proximity, early 1400s. What inducement, power or force was used that the family were able to take over the dwelling and start the development of this grand, stately home in the 1500s? No answers were available. The formal gardens looked good (late August) and there were handy planting guides but just a moment. Rather like the foot path guide, it was rather adrift from the beds. The innards of the house were understandably dark but the lighting had a curiously dizzying effect and coupled with warm stale air made for an uncomfortable tour. The human guides inside were better than the paper ones encountered so far, friendly, informative and eager to help. Period dress around the house amused. There is a large court yard serving a small cafe with a range of snacks and drinks. Alternatively, the restaurant within a couple of rooms of the house, with waitresses, serves plated hot and cold food and drink. Loos in the vicinity too. Having just visited Trelissick I felt an itch to compare them. Lanhydrock is larger, grander, more imposing with more to view inside about the family and life in a stately home. Trelissick is smaller but still an impressive building and garden. It has stunning views across the estuary and manages to combine these attributes with a tranquil, inviting atmosphere. It's dining areas, separate from the house are clean, modern, attractive and the "restaurant" food was of a better standard. I favour Trelissick...

Probably over 20 years since my previous visit here it doesn't feel like this lovely old house has changed one iota - and for this we have to thank the NT and its (what's the collective noun for a group of NT volunteers?) magnificent army of paid and unpaid volunteers. Increasingly (though I fully understand why) there's more please don't touch signs which can spoil the flow of a walk around these places but I think you could hit some people over the head with a caution cricket bat and they'd still ignore the warnings. Anyway, after dropping the youngest off at Bodmin Parkway for her return leg to the North, we saw the acorn in the car park (less than a two mile walk) and took the plunge. We surprised the pair checking tickets on the gatehouse after they realised we'd done a decent circuit around the estate already, having only just opened. The gardens were getting the full manicure (I counted 7 gardeners I jest you not) and the camellias, though slightly over, were still looking magnificent. To be honest, after the splendour of the grounds, gardens and surrounding out buildings, the house itself does feel a touch dowdy but again, it's an understandable issue since light does its share of damage and keeping it dim inside is a conservation critical issue (it could be worse - in Florence I recall having to pay to push a button to turn on a dim light in a crypt with some very delicate plaster friezes - when my eyes were just about adjusting, the lights clicked off much to my partner's amusement). Anyway, join the NT and get down there today - food for...

Lanhydrock House and Gardens: A Victorian Gem for the Whole Family Our recent visit to Lanhydrock House and Gardens was an absolute delight for the whole family. From the moment we stepped onto the sprawling estate, we were transported back in time to the Victorian era. The house itself is a marvel of architecture and interior design, with each room telling a story of the Agar-Robartes family and their staff. We particularly enjoyed exploring the children's nursery, the bustling kitchen, and the grand Long Gallery, where a fascinating conservation project was underway. The staff were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the history of the house, bringing the stories to life for both adults and children alike. The gardens at Lanhydrock are equally impressive, with vibrant floral displays, tranquil woodland walks, and hidden corners to discover. The children loved running through the formal gardens and exploring the play areas dotted throughout the grounds. The cycle paths were a hit with the older kids, offering a fun and scenic way to explore the wider estate. The facilities at Lanhydrock are excellent, with two cafes serving delicious food and drinks, plenty of picnic spots, and well-maintained toilets. The staff were friendly and welcoming, making our visit even more enjoyable. Overall, Lanhydrock House and Gardens is a fantastic day out for families, offering a unique blend of history, nature, and fun activities. We highly recommend a visit to this...