Nostell Priory and Parkland
A stunning 18th-century Georgian house with exquisite Chippendale furniture, set within 300 acres of parkland and gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Gardens in bloom
Nostell Priory and Parkland
Best Time
Gardens in bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 18th-century Georgian house with exquisite Chippendale furniture, set within 300 acres of parkland and gardens.
"A National Trust gem offering history, nature, and family fun with beautiful interiors and expansive grounds."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Nostell Priory is incredibly dog-friendly! Enjoy the parkland with your pup, and even the cafe is now dog-friendly.
🍕 Pizza Van Pitstop
Grab a delicious slice from the pizza van, open all winter, perfect for a casual bite during your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Georgian House
The Priory House
Step back in time in this stunning 18th-century house, featuring exquisite Robert Adam interiors and a world-class Chippendale furniture collection.
Expansive Parkland Walks
Surrounding Estate
Wander through 300 acres of beautiful parkland, woodland, and lakeside paths, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more adventurous hike.
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Chippendale Furniture Collection
The Priory House
Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of furniture designed by Thomas Chippendale, a true highlight of the house's collection.
Family Adventure Play Area
Near the Courtyard
Kids will love the dedicated play area, offering a fun space to burn energy while parents relax nearby.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
National Trust Membership Perks
Weather-Ready Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Nostell Priory is incredibly dog-friendly! Enjoy the parkland with your pup, and even the cafe is now dog-friendly.
🍕 Pizza Van Pitstop
Grab a delicious slice from the pizza van, open all winter, perfect for a casual bite during your visit.
🚗 Parking & Membership
Parking is £5 for non-members. Consider National Trust membership for free access to the house and grounds.
🚶♀️ Paved & Woodland Walks
Enjoy paved paths for easy strolls or venture into the woods and fields for more varied terrain.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Nostell Priory is incredibly dog-friendly! Enjoy the parkland with your pup, and even the cafe is now dog-friendly.
🍕 Pizza Van Pitstop
Grab a delicious slice from the pizza van, open all winter, perfect for a casual bite during your visit.
🚗 Parking & Membership
Parking is £5 for non-members. Consider National Trust membership for free access to the house and grounds.
🚶♀️ Paved & Woodland Walks
Enjoy paved paths for easy strolls or venture into the woods and fields for more varied terrain.
☕ Courtyard Cafe Delights
The courtyard cafe offers food, drinks, and a lovely spot to relax after exploring the house and gardens.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Nostell Priory for its beautiful Georgian house, impressive Chippendale furniture, and extensive, well-maintained parkland offering lovely walks. It's highly recommended for families and dog owners alike, with good amenities like cafes and play areas contributing to a great day out. Some find the house entry fee a bit steep if not a National Trust member.
"A great place to visit. Very family friendly. Beautiful examples of Chippendale carpentry on display plus the famous Harrison clock.
Well preserved House.
Gardens are great and there is a kids play area.
Beautiful fruit and veg gardens too."
The Gluten Free Guide
"You can park here for £5 (or free if national trust member) and enjoy the grounds with some lovely walks. Many of which are paved walks so even in bad weather you are not in the mud. Then there are also further walks through the woods and around fields and lakes which are stunning to take in.
There is a pop up cafe in the grounds as well as a full cafe in the courtyard which also has toilets, ice cream stand, plant shop, book shop.
Then there is the house and the walled gardens which costs an entry free. The house is a real treat and has been beautifully preserved through the years. It's takes you across 2 floors with lots to see."
James Stone
"Great day out. House was fantastic, with some lovely Chippendale furniture and the staff were excellent. Grounds were really nice as well - plenty to explore. Courtyard cafe and shop worth popping into. Really good value for money overall."
Robert Hawkins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nostell Priory is located near Wakefield, about a 30-40 minute drive from Leeds. You can also reach it by public transport, though driving offers more flexibility for exploring the grounds.
Yes, there is parking available on-site. It costs £5 for non-National Trust members. Members park for free.
While driving is recommended for ease, you can reach Nostell Priory via public transport by taking a train to Wakefield Westgate and then a local bus or taxi.
Many of the main paths around the house and gardens are paved and accessible. The house itself has limited accessibility due to its historic nature.
Opening hours vary seasonally for the house, gardens, and parkland. It's best to check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the parkland and grounds is free for National Trust members. Non-members can pay £5 for parking and then purchase tickets for house and garden entry.
Booking in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons or for specific events, to guarantee entry. Check the National Trust website for details.
National Trust members get free entry. Look out for potential special offers or family ticket deals on the National Trust website.
Typically, you can purchase tickets for the house and gardens separately or as a combined ticket. The parkland is generally accessible with a parking fee for non-members.
Yes, Nostell Priory and its parkland are managed by the National Trust, a charity dedicated to preserving historic places.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Families can enjoy the adventure play park, explore the expansive parkland, and discover the historic house. There are also often family-friendly events.
Yes, Nostell Priory is very dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome in the parkland and gardens, and even in the cafe.
There are various routes, from paved paths around the house and gardens to longer woodland and lakeside walks. The obelisk walk is a popular choice. +1
Yes, there's a cafe in the courtyard serving food and drinks, and a pop-up pizza van in the grounds.
Built on the site of a medieval priory, the current house is an 18th-century Palladian masterpiece, showcasing interiors by Robert Adam and furniture by Chippendale. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the Georgian house, the landscaped gardens, the obelisk folly, and the serene parkland, especially during golden hour.
Photography is generally allowed inside the house, but usually without flash to protect the delicate interiors and furniture. Always check for specific signage.
Absolutely! The vast parkland offers diverse photographic opportunities, from wide-angle landscape shots to intimate details of nature and wildlife.
Nostell Priory is ideal for landscape, architectural, portrait, and nature photography, offering a variety of backdrops throughout the year.
Drone usage is typically restricted at National Trust properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's essential to check the specific drone policy for Nostell Priory.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips: Paved paths make stroller navigation easier, and the cafe offers kid-friendly options. Consider bringing a ball or frisbee for the open spaces. The dog-friendly nature means even your four-legged family members can join the fun!
🐾 Dog Walkers
Key perk: The cafe now welcomes dogs, so you can enjoy a refreshment with your furry friend by your side. The enclosed dog run is also a fantastic feature for letting dogs socialize and play safely.
🏛️ History Buffs
Discover the priory's past, from its medieval origins to its life as a grand country estate. Don't miss the significant artworks and the famous Harrison clock. The well-preserved interiors provide an immersive experience into Georgian life.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Priory House: A Glimpse into Georgian Elegance
Beyond the furniture, the house features significant artworks, including a copy of Hans Holbein's painting of Sir Thomas More and his family. The famous Harrison clock is another must-see artifact, offering a glimpse into the horological advancements of the era. The house tour provides a fascinating narrative of the families who lived here and the historical context of the priory.
Tip: Take your time to appreciate the details in each room. The knowledgeable staff and volunteers are often on hand to share fascinating stories and insights about the priory's past.
The Parkland and Gardens: Nature's Canvas
+1Within the parkland, you'll find the meticulously maintained gardens, including a vibrant rose garden and a productive kitchen garden. The kitchen garden, in particular, showcases heritage varieties of fruits and vegetables, offering a glimpse into historical horticultural practices. The obelisk, a prominent folly, stands as a picturesque landmark within the estate and offers a rewarding destination for a walk.
For dog owners: The parkland is a dream! It's incredibly dog-friendly, with plenty of space for your furry friends to roam and explore. The cafe even welcomes dogs, making it a truly enjoyable day out for the whole family.
Family Fun and Activities
Beyond the play area, the expansive parkland invites exploration and imaginative play. Families can enjoy picnics, nature scavenger hunts, or simply the freedom to run around in the open spaces. The house itself, with its grand rooms and historical artifacts, can also spark curiosity in children, especially when brought to life by engaging guides.
Pro-tip: Pack snacks and drinks, though there are convenient cafe facilities. Consider visiting during school holidays when Nostell Priory often hosts special family-friendly events and activities.
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