We have been National Trust members for over 10 years now. We are huge fans and will probably be lifelong members. I often spot people posting in our Facebook group asking if National Trust membership is worth it. For me, it 100% is. This post is going to share a little about what you can expect from your National Trust Membership here in the North East.
National Trust Family Membership is £133.80 per year or £11.15 per month for 2 adults living at the same address and their children / grandchildren under the age of 17. Under 5s go free. Single parent discount is available.
For us as a family of 5, this works out at £26.76 per person per year or £2.23 per person per month. Bargain! The value you get out of your National Trust very much depends on how often you visit.
When the kids were little, we used to visit their playgrounds regularly, especially in the summer and make a day of it with a picnic. Then I will admit we did visit less in the older tween/younger teen years but still enjoyed bi-monthly visits for walks etc.....(especially in Autumn).
These days, with Ollie and Fozzy we are never away and love National Trust for a dog walk, coffee and cake. Such a middle-aged cliche! I reckon we visit a National Trust site twice a month at the moment which works out at £1.12 per visit. Like I say, for us it's a bargain.
We have been visiting National Trust for 10 years+ now and still feel like we have lots to see and do, it's difficult to get bored. At the moment, I am working my way through some of the 2 to 4 mile walks.
We pay monthly for our National Trust membership and I know this doesn't really make sense but because our payment is lumped together with our other direct debits and bills, it always *feels* as if National Trust is a free day out and I like that it's always an option when you are feeling a bit skint / don't want to put your hand in your pocket on the actual day but want to visit somewhere nice.
It is often mentioned in our Facebook group that joining National Trust Scotland is cheaper and that people should do this instead. I will be honest, when you couldn't pay for NT monthly, I was a NT Scotland member myself as I couldn't afford the annual cost. However times have changed and National Trust now allow members to pay monthly and for us, National Trust is only 34p per person per month more expensive than National Trust Scotland which isn't a great deal.
Personally, I think the benefits of National Trust over National Trust Scotland are 100% worth this minimal extra charge. They include:
Obviously, if you visit Scotland a lot, the Scottish membership may be better for you but for me, it has to be National Trust all the way.
I remember years ago (when we were Scottish members), I drove all the way to Cragside and forgot our membership cards so couldn't enter (I believe they have digital options now) where as if I had been a National Trust member, they could have looked me up on their database and would have been able to see that we were members. Lesson learned for me!
The Cost of National Trust Membership
National Trust Family Membership is £133.80 per year or £11.15 per month for 2 adults living at the same address and their children / grandchildren under the age of 17. Under 5s go free. Single parent discount is available.
For us as a family of 5, this works out at £26.76 per person per year or £2.23 per person per month. Bargain! The value you get out of your National Trust very much depends on how often you visit.
When the kids were little, we used to visit their playgrounds regularly, especially in the summer and make a day of it with a picnic. Then I will admit we did visit less in the older tween/younger teen years but still enjoyed bi-monthly visits for walks etc.....(especially in Autumn).
These days, with Ollie and Fozzy we are never away and love National Trust for a dog walk, coffee and cake. Such a middle-aged cliche! I reckon we visit a National Trust site twice a month at the moment which works out at £1.12 per visit. Like I say, for us it's a bargain.
We have been visiting National Trust for 10 years+ now and still feel like we have lots to see and do, it's difficult to get bored. At the moment, I am working my way through some of the 2 to 4 mile walks.
We pay monthly for our National Trust membership and I know this doesn't really make sense but because our payment is lumped together with our other direct debits and bills, it always *feels* as if National Trust is a free day out and I like that it's always an option when you are feeling a bit skint / don't want to put your hand in your pocket on the actual day but want to visit somewhere nice.
It is often mentioned in our Facebook group that joining National Trust Scotland is cheaper and that people should do this instead. I will be honest, when you couldn't pay for NT monthly, I was a NT Scotland member myself as I couldn't afford the annual cost. However times have changed and National Trust now allow members to pay monthly and for us, National Trust is only 34p per person per month more expensive than National Trust Scotland which isn't a great deal.
Personally, I think the benefits of National Trust over National Trust Scotland are 100% worth this minimal extra charge. They include:
- National Trust is a charity and when you join, your money is being spent on the properties you will actually spend most time in rather than elsewhere which makes sense to me. There is no point moaning that your local NT park needs an upgrade if you are paying to fund the properties in Scotland instead.
- You get free parking in National Trust car parks (many NT places in the North East offer free parking anyway but many around the country don't which is when this is handy). We use the free parking option at Allen Banks which saves a bit (you just swipe your membership card on the payment machine).
- You can use National Trust membership to visit Scottish properties free of charge and other places around the world where reciprical agreements are in place.
- You get a handbook with information about properties near where you live plus a quarterly magazine with info about upcoming local events as well as regular emails. Plus you get to vote in National Trust decisions too.
Obviously, if you visit Scotland a lot, the Scottish membership may be better for you but for me, it has to be National Trust all the way.
I remember years ago (when we were Scottish members), I drove all the way to Cragside and forgot our membership cards so couldn't enter (I believe they have digital options now) where as if I had been a National Trust member, they could have looked me up on their database and would have been able to see that we were members. Lesson learned for me!
We have used our National Trust membership to visit venues across the country when on holiday or as a stop off point / service station alternative when travelling too.
Over the years the kids have enjoyed gardening and potting little plants to bring home in the walled garden at Gibside, planting snowdrops at Wallington, listening to live music on the Avenue at Gibside, den building at Wallington, taking part in a water fight and pond dipping at Cragside, Pirate Day at Souter Lighthouse, crafts and theatre at Seaton Delaval Hall, a May Day party at Cherryburn plus lots of Easter Egg Hunts, Christmas storytelling and trails over the years.
There is always something going on, especially during school holidays and the events are ever-changing which means there is always a new reason to go back and you aren't likely to get bored.
Some events at National Trust do need to be pre-booked but 9/10, you can just turn up and drop in at no additional cost. You can check out what's on and coming up via the National Trust website or by following each site's page on Social Media.
Dogs are welcome in the grounds and outdoor seating areas of the tea rooms and coffee shops at pretty much every National Trust site. Dogs do need to be kept on leads which won't suit everyone but it suits us just fine and we love it.
I've always found National Trust sites to be welcoming when we've visited with dogs with information on various dog walking routes, free poo bags and water bowls available. There are so many walks to choose from that you could do a different route every few weeks across the year and still not do them all.
The tearooms / coffee shops at National Trust sites also tend to have ample outdoor seating and you are pretty much guaranteed a seat with your dog and the cakes are always lush.
National Trust Events
One of the big selling points for National Trust for me is that they have such a wide range of events which are usually included with your membership.Over the years the kids have enjoyed gardening and potting little plants to bring home in the walled garden at Gibside, planting snowdrops at Wallington, listening to live music on the Avenue at Gibside, den building at Wallington, taking part in a water fight and pond dipping at Cragside, Pirate Day at Souter Lighthouse, crafts and theatre at Seaton Delaval Hall, a May Day party at Cherryburn plus lots of Easter Egg Hunts, Christmas storytelling and trails over the years.
There is always something going on, especially during school holidays and the events are ever-changing which means there is always a new reason to go back and you aren't likely to get bored.
Some events at National Trust do need to be pre-booked but 9/10, you can just turn up and drop in at no additional cost. You can check out what's on and coming up via the National Trust website or by following each site's page on Social Media.
National Trust for Dogs
Dogs are welcome in the grounds and outdoor seating areas of the tea rooms and coffee shops at pretty much every National Trust site. Dogs do need to be kept on leads which won't suit everyone but it suits us just fine and we love it.
I've always found National Trust sites to be welcoming when we've visited with dogs with information on various dog walking routes, free poo bags and water bowls available. There are so many walks to choose from that you could do a different route every few weeks across the year and still not do them all.
The tearooms / coffee shops at National Trust sites also tend to have ample outdoor seating and you are pretty much guaranteed a seat with your dog and the cakes are always lush.
Visiting Cragside
Cragside is one of the largest National Trust sites in North East England and a popular spot with locals and tourists alike. It is fairly unique as you can drive around the estate, stopping off at various viewing points or areas around the way. Cragside House is my favourite NT house to visit, it is in immaculate condition and just a joy to walk through.
We love visiting Cragside for a picnic as the views overlooking the lake are picture perfect. The kids always try and drag me around the labyrinth but I am always a little scared we will end up trapped in there! The play park is a lovely size (although not as big as Gibside) and perfect for under 10s.
We enjoy climbing down through the rock gardens and then walking along the river - it is always so tranquil along there.
We love visiting Cragside for a picnic as the views overlooking the lake are picture perfect. The kids always try and drag me around the labyrinth but I am always a little scared we will end up trapped in there! The play park is a lovely size (although not as big as Gibside) and perfect for under 10s.
We enjoy climbing down through the rock gardens and then walking along the river - it is always so tranquil along there.
- Address: Cragside, Rothbury, Morpeth, Northumberland. NE65 7PX
- Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside
- Indoors: I absolutely love Cragside House. It is beautiful (you must see the fireplace) and furnished in all of its Victorian glory. My favourite room is the kitchen where there are often volunteers baking Victorian cakes and recipes. The house is especially magical at Christmas time, their decorations are something else (click here to see photos of Cragside at Christmas).
- Walks: Cragside is a huge estate and there are over 40 miles of walks and trails to explore. Pop into the visitor barn on arrival to check out the various routes. You can choose from formal gardens, walks which offer stunning views of Cragside, woodland walks, riverside walks, lakeside walks and more. There is something for all abilities. Check out this walk around Nelly's Moss which is 1.5 mile circular and suitable for pushchairs.
- Access Info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside#Facilities%20and%20access
- Public Transport: Bus + 15 min challenging walk on a busy road (see here for details)
- Gardens: The gardens at Cragside are beautiful. Visitors can enjoy the formal garden, the rock garden, the Pinetum & more. Don't miss the Rhodendendrums. We love taking a picnic by one of the lakes. Find out more about the gardens here.
- Play Areas: There is a lovely enclosed play park at the top of the estate. You can either climb up a pretty big hill to get there or drive through the estate and park in the car park next door. The park has loos and a coffee/ice cream hut next door. A short walk from the park you will find the labyrinth which is a fun maze with a music box in the middle. Great fun for families.
- Tea Room: Cragside is home to a lovely tea room overlooking the lake serving delicious homemade meals, cakes, soups and drinks.
- History: Cragside was the first house in the world to be lit by Hydroelectricity. The Victorian house is crammed with gadgets (many still work) and was the home of North East Inventor, Lord Armstrong.
- Nearby: Rothbury Riverside Walk is just along the road and Fontburn is a 20 minute drive away.
- Read about our trip to Cragside and see more photos here.
Visiting Gibside
My favourite part of Gibside these days is the walled garden and orangery, the range of plants and flowers which varies through the seasons is just gorgeous.
- Address: Gibside, Rowlands Gill, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear. NE16 6BG
- Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside
- Indoors: There is no grand house at Gibside but you can visit the Chapel which still hosts weddings today.
- Walks: There are 600 acres to explore and lots of different trails for all abilities. Ask at reception for details. They often run a children's trail through the grounds. One of our favourite walks is up through the giant trees towards the stables. You won't believe how tall some of them are.
- Access Info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside#Facilities%20and%20access
- Public Transport: Yes - bus + 1/2mile walk (see here for details)
- Gardens: There are lots of garden areas to explore at Gibside. My favourite has to be the walled gardens, I just love the colours in there. They are a great place to visit during apple picking season and you can often purchase them fresh from the garden from an honesty stall. The orangery is another favourite area with gorgeous framed views of the countryside and flowers galore.
- Play Areas: The Strawberry Castle Play Area is one of my favourites and one of the best parks in North East England. This large adventure playground is castle-themed with mock castles, climbing frames, slides, swings, zip wires and loads of space. It is a popular picnic spot and there is a coffee/ice cream kiosk and toilet there too.
Beyond Strawberry Castle there is the nature playscape in the woods, low ropes challenge and West Wood Workout. - Tea Room: The coffee shop at Gibside is right by the entrance and serves locally sourced food and snacks. There is a mini slide and lots of outdoor seating. There are often pop-up food trucks and markets too.
- History: Gibside is one of the few surviving 18th Century designed gardens with lots of spectacular views and wow moments. The estate was commissioned by coal baron George Bowes.
- Nearby: The Thornley Woodland Centre & Sculpture Trail is just along the road and the Woodsmans Arms pub is nearby and serves a cracking Sunday Lunch.
Visiting Wallington
Wallington Hall is a beautiful estate and brilliant if your kids love playgrounds as there are three to choose from. The courtyard is a fab spot for a picnic and the woodland and lakeside walks are wonderful - watch out for the red squirrels.
- Address: Wallington, Cambo, Northumberland. NE61 4AR
- Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
- Indoors: Wallington House is worth a look, especially to see their Dolls House collection. It's beautifully decorated at Christmas time.
- Walks: The 13,000 acre estate is super diverse with woodland & lakeside walks, a hidden walled garden and even a cycle trail to explore. There are various walks for all abilities - ask at reception for details.
- Access Info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington#Facilities%20and%20access
- Public Transport: No public transport but there is the option to cycle (see here for details)
- Gardens: As you arrive at Wallington, you can enjoy the courtyard area which is surrounded by plants and a lovely space for a picnic or for the kids to let off steam. Wallington is home to a floor of beautiful snowdrops in early spring and visitors are often asked to help with the planting. The secret walled garden which is carved into the hillside is the real gem though.
- Play Areas: Wallington is blessed with three adventure play areas, all set in woodland and within walking distance of each other. If your kids love play areas, they will never get bored here. First up is the main play area with swings, tyres, balance beams, slides and more. Then you have the play train which is a train-themed climbing frame and station, always a hit with little ones! Then finally you have a play fort which is perfect for letting the kids let off steam. There is a coffee hut and picnic tables near this one.
- Tea Room: The Clocktower cafe by he entrance overlooks the courtyard and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Expect the usual National Trust cakes and meals plus afternoon tea. There are various kiosks around the site too.
- History: Wallington Estate was owned by the Fenwick family from 1475 before it was sold to the Blackett family and then the Trevelyan family in 1777.
- Nearby: Belsay Castle & Gardens (English Heritage) and Bolam Lake are a short drive away.
Read more about our trips to Wallington and see more photos here.
Visiting Seaton Delaval Hall
I do have a soft spot for Seaton Delaval Hall as it's just a few miles from where I live and it's been wonderful to see it's regeneration from those times I used to drive by and see it all locked up (and I assumed filled with ghosts) to how spectacular it is now.
Seaton Delaval Hall is one of the smaller NT sites but there is still a lot to do and the whole place has a colourful and playful nature. I love the various walks, beautiful planting, original features in the hall itself and the new playground and brewhouse is an excellent addition too.
- Address: Seaton Delaval Hall. The Avenue, Seaton Sluice. NE26 4QR
- Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/seaton-delaval-hall
- Indoors: Seaton Delaval Hall is almost coming to the end of a major restoration thanks to support from the National Lottery Heritage fund. The west wing is receiving a whole new roof, cantilever stairs are being repaired and the basement is receiving a new floor.
- Walks: Visitors can enjoy gentle strolls through the various gardens - there may be a surprise or too. There are also opportunities to explore the wider estate and area (see here for details).
- Access Info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/seaton-delaval-hall#Facilities%20and%20access
- Public Transport: Yes - a bus stops outside, it is also manageable to visit on foot via footpaths from Seaton Sluice, Seaton Delaval, Blyth and North Tyneside (see here for details)
- Gardens: I love the gardens here as there are so many hidden corners to enjoy. The formal gardens feature roses and a magnificent weeping ash tree, there are herbaceous borders, the famous laburnum arch and a secret garden too. Seaton Delaval Hall is also home to a rather wonderful community garden just by the car park.
- Play Areas: A brand new play area is now open in the woods.
- Tea Room: A brand new brewhouse opened last year with indoor and outdoor seating.
- Nearby: East Cramlington Nature Reserve is just along the road or why not take a trip to St Marys Lighthouse in Whitley Bay?
- History: Seaton Delaval Hall was home to the larger than life Delaval family who knew how to throw a good party and were some of the most notorious Georgian partygoers and pranksters.
Read 14 Reasons to Visit Seaton Delaval Hall here.
Visiting Cherryburn
Cherryburn is a smaller site but a lovely hidden gem and a nice spot for a spring or summer picnic away from the hustle and bustle.
- Address: Cherryburn, Station Bank. Mickley Square. Stocksfield. Northumberland. NE43 7DD
- Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cherryburn
- Indoors: The Northumbrian farmhouse is the birthplace of famous artist Thomas Bewick. The cottage is furnished and includes an exhibition about his life and print room.
- Walks: Cherryburn is a small place but you can enjoy short walks around the paddock and gardens.
- Access Info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cherryburn#Facilities%20and%20access
- Public Transport: Yes - Bus + 1/4 mile walk OR Train + 1.5 mile (see here for details)
- Gardens: You can enjoy the farmyard and paddock which are often home to animals, the picnic lawn and gardens.
- Play Areas: There is no formal play area but there are natural play areas for children to enjoy.
- Tea Room: Takeaway is available from the small shop.
- History: The traditional 19th century farmhouse is the birthplace of Thomas Bewick.
- Nearby: Prudhoe Castle and Brocksbushes (farm shop and fruit picking) are a short drive away.
Visiting Souter Lighthouse
Souter Lighthouse has lots to offer with regular events on their field, a lighthouse to climb, tea room and lovely coastal walks.
- Address: Souter Lighthouse, Coast Road, Whitburn, Sunderland. SR6 7NH
- Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/souter-lighthouse-and-the-leas
- Indoors: You can climb the 76 steps to the top of the lighthouse, learn about life as a lighthouse keeper and discover a lost village. The views from the top of the lighthouse are, as you'd expect, worth the climb.
- Walks: There are lots of coastal walks and cycle routes to enjoy in the vicinity and regular seashore safari events along the coastline. You can find out more here.
- Access Info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/souter-lighthouse-and-the-leas#Facilities%20and%20access
- Public Transport: Yes - A bus stops outside / cycle / walk (details here)
- Gardens: There is a wildlife garden which includes ponds, wild flowers, hibernation areas and more. Kids can burn off some energy running around Foghorn field which regularly hosts free sporting activities.
- Play Areas: No play areas.
- Tea Room: There is a lighthouse cafe serving hot and cold drinks, snacks and light meals to take away.
- History: Souter Lighthouse opened in 1871 and was the first lighthouse in the world designed and built to use electricity.
- Nearby: There is lots of fun to be had in South Shields which is just along the coast.
Visiting Lindisfarne Castle
Lindisfarne Castle is on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne which is cut off from the mainland twice per day. Please check tide times and safe crossing times / leave plenty of time before visiting.
- Address: Lindisfarne Castle, Holy Island, Berwick Upon Tweed. TD15 2SH
- Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lindisfarne-castle
- Indoors: Enjoy this fine example of an Edwardian holiday home with lots of original features and fantastic views from the roof terrace.
- Walks: Plenty of walks to enjoy around the castle
- Access Info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lindisfarne-castle#Facilities%20and%20access
- Public Transport: Yes - by bus, foot or cycle (find out more here)
- Gardens: There are small gardens to enjoy around the castle
- Play Areas: There is no play area
- Tea Room: There is no tearoom but there are places you can grab a bite to eat in the village.
- History: Lindisfarne Castle was built in 1550 in an area that was frequently attacked by Vikings and where English and Scots would fight. The castle sits on an island which is cut off from the mainland twice per day and is truly magical.
- Nearby: Lindisfarne Priory (English Heritage) and Berwick Upon Tweed.
- Address: Islands near Seahouses - you need to book a boat trip (chargeable) from Seahouses Harbour with island landing. This Inner Farne Island trip is ideal.
- Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/farne-islands
- Indoors: This is a pretty exposed trip and outdoors so wrap up warm. You can visit a Medieval Chapel and Lighthouse on the island.
- Walks: Enjoy walks around the island (watch out for the dive-bombing terns) and enjoy unrivalled views of 23 species of seabirds including 46,000 breeding pairs of puffins if you time it right. There are also 2000 seal pups born around the islands each year.
- Access Info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/farne-islands#Facilities%20and%20access
- Public Transport: Yes - by bus and boat (more info here)
- Gardens: Rocky islands
- Play Areas: No play areas
- Tea Room: No tearooms but there are plenty of options in Seahouses.
- History: The Farne Islands are home to 23 species of seabird including over 40,000 pairs of puffin. It is also home to one of the top grey seal pupping sites in England with 2000 seal pups being born every autumn. You can only reach the islands by boat - we recommend Serenity Boat Trips which depart regularly from Seahouses.
- Nearby: Seahouses, Beadnell and Bamburgh Castle are all close by.
Visiting Dunstanburgh Castle
We absolutely love the walk to Dunstanburgh Castle from Craster and try to do it every couple of years. I honestly think it's one of the best in the UK for coastal views.
- Address: Dunstanburgh Castle, Craster, NE66 3TT.
- Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunstanburgh-castle (managed by English Heritage but if you are a National Trust member you can visit for free. Do not forget to take your NT cards with you).
- Indoors: There isn't too much to see inside but you can visit inside parts of the castle which is fab. It's mostly outdoors though.
- Walks: The 1.5-2 mile (ish) walk along the coast from Craster is one of the best in the UK in my opinion. It's gorgeous with beautiful coastal views. You can continue beyond the castle to Low Newton too.
- Access Info: See here for info.
- Public Trasport: Yes - a bus serves Craster (you still need to walk 1.5 miles to the castle). See here for more info.
- Gardens: No formal garden as such but you can walk around the castle walls and there is lots of wildlife, birds and coastal plants to spot.
- Play Areas: No play area but there is a playground in Craster village (beyond the pub and cafe - more towards where the houses are in the village).
- Tea Room: No tearoom but there are limited drinks / snacks available. Please note there is no public loo so make sure you spend a penny in the Craster Car Park toilets before setting off. There are options for food and drinks in the village.
- History: Dunstanburgh Castle was once the grandest fortification in Northern England.
- Nearby: Visit the village of Craster, Howick Hall Gardens, Beadnell, Boulmer or Alnmouth.
Read about our walk to Dunstanburgh Castle and see more photos here
Visiting Housesteads Roman Fort on Hadrians Wall
- Address: Housesteads Roman Fort, ne Bardon Mill, Hexham. Northumberland. NE47 6NN
- Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hadrians-wall-and-housesteads-fort Housesteads is owned by National Trust and maintained by English Heritage - free for members of both to visit.
- Indoors: There is a visitor centre, tea room and small museum.
- Walks: Lots of walks to choose from around this site and beyond along Hadrian's Wall. The walk to nearby Sycamore Gap is popular.
- Access Info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hadrians-wall-and-housesteads-fort#Facilities%20and%20access
- Public Transport: Yes - Hadrians Wall Bus Service (see here for details)
- Gardens: No formal gardens as such but a chance to walk around Hadrian's Wall and archaelogical remains.
- Play Areas: I haven't been to this one myself, but their website does state there is a play area for children.
- Tea Room: There is a tea room in the visitor centre
- History: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is part of the Roman Empire's best-maintained outpost in Europe. Gain an insight into military life and see one of the world's oldest toilets.
- Nearby: Chester's Roman Fort, Vindolanda and the Roman Army Museum, the Sill and Sycamore Gap.
Visiting Allen Banks and Staward Gorge
Allen Banks is free for anyone to visit and a nice spot for a scenic and quieter walk through woodland. - Address: Allen Banks, nr Ridley Hall, Hexham, Northumberland. NE47 7BP
- Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/allen-banks-and-staward-gorge
- Indoors: There are no buildings to explore here - it's a fully outdoor location.
- Walks: Some areas are inaccessible due to previous landslides but there are still lots of lovely walks to enjoy with beautful views of the river and countryside. How about the Marralee Tarn walk which takes you through ancient woodland and is around 2.5 mile circular?
- Access Info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/allen-banks-and-staward-gorge#Facilities%20and%20access
- Public Transport: Bus (1/2 mile), Train (1.5 miles), Foot or Cycle
- Gardens: No gardens but there is beautiful ancient woodland. The area is known for bluebells and wild garlic.
- Play Areas: No play areas
- Tea Room: No tearoom - I recommend bringing a picnic. There are toilets in the car park (re-opened on 4 March).
- History: Allen Banks is the largest area of ancient semi-natural woodland in Northumberland.
- Nearby: Vindolanda, Housesteads Roman Fort, Langley Castle and Hexham.
Visiting Penshaw Monument
Penshaw Monument is another place which is free for all to visit. We love climbing to the top and the views are spectacular.
- Address: Penshaw Monument, Chester Road, Penshaw. Tyne and Wear. DH4 7NJ
- Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/penshaw-monument
- Indoors: Penshaw Monument is an outdoor monument
- Walks: There are various walks around parks and woodland in the area. How about the Lambton Worm Walk which is an easy 2.6 mile circular route? Or you could cross over to Herrington Park and enjoy the walks around there.
The National Trust often organise guided walks around the top of the monument which should be booked in advance. - Access Info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/penshaw-monument#Facilities%20and%20access
- Public Transport: Yes, by bus (find out more here). Parking is free for National Trust members (swipe your membership card on the payment machine) or £3/£4 for non-members.
- Gardens: No formal gardens but there is woodland and beautiful views
- Play Areas: No play area but if you cross over the road, there is a playground in Herrington Park.
- Tea Room: Penshaw Farm Shop and Tea Room is at the bottom of the monument. It's lush!
- History: Penshaw Monument is a replica of the Temple of Hephaestus. Built in 1844 and standing at 70ft tall, it is said to be Wearside's most beloved landmark and even appears on the badge of Sunderland Football Club.
- Nearby: Herrington Country Park, Washington Old Hall, WWT Washington, Hylton Castle.
Washington Old Hall is a smaller NT site but steeped in history and somewhere a little different to visit. The gardens are beautiful.
- Address: Washington Old Hall, The Avenue. Washington Village. Tyne & Wear. NE38 7LE
- Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/washington-old-hall
- Indoors: You can visit the Old Hall which dates back to the 13th Century and was home to George Washington's ancestors. The building is steeped in history and used as a tenement building in the 1930s.
- Walks: There are short walks to enjoy around the gardens. Washington Old Hall is one of the smaller NT properties.
- Access Info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/washington-old-hall#Facilities%20and%20access
- Public Transport: Yes, by bus / cycle (find out more here).
- Gardens: The gardens are a lovely place to enjoy a stroll and packed with flowers and wildlife
- Play Areas: There is a small play area in the gardens
- Tea Room: The tea room is no longer open but there are cafes and tea rooms in the village a short walk away.
- History: The first President of the United States, George Washington's origins started here. The manor was built in the 13th century and was home to the President's ancestors.
- Nearby: Penshaw Monument, WWT Washington, North East Land Air and Sea Museum.
Visiting Ormesby Hall
Ormesby Hall usually runs a packed programme of events across School Holidays and generally offers something a little different to the usual NT events. It's a nice day out with model railways set up in the house, a nice tea room, lots of history and beautiful gardens to enjoy.
- Address: Ormesby Hall, Church Lane, Ormesby, Redcar. TS7 9AS
- Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ormesby-hall
- Indoors: We love visiting Ormesby Hall (and are definitely overdue a return visit). The house is varied with model trainsets which kids will love, WWI history and a chance to experience life as a servent in the kitchen and laundry.
- Walks: There are over 240 acres of grounds to explore with various walking routes (three of them are detailed here).
- Accessibility: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ormesby-hall#Facilities%20and%20access
- Public Transport: Bus / Train (see here for details)
- Gardens: The Victorian Formal Garden is beautiful.
- Play Areas: Natural play area, den building area and bug hotel
- Tea Room: There is a lovely tea room.
- History: The Pennyman family owned the home for over 400 years. Discover their stories (and scandals) inside the house.
- Nearby: Flatts Lane Country Park, Kirkleatham Museum/Gardens/Owl Centre, Preston Park
Other National Trust Properties you could visit as a day trip include Roseberry Topping, Fountains Abbey, Beningbrough Hall, Mount Grace Priory, Nunnington Hall & more.
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