Places to Visit in 2014

Every year since becoming National Trust members I have compiled a list of places to visit in the coming year. In the three years that we have been members, we have pretty much exhausted most of our local properties and gardens, so this year I have expanded my radius to an hour and a half drive so that we can get some more new places visited. So here is our list for 2014.

Stowe Landscape Gardens, Buckinghamshire

This was on last years list. I am still desperate to pack a picnic and head here for the day with Louie. Fresh air and a great run around will do nicely.

Lyveden New Build, Northamptonshire

One of the many lovely room guides that we have met (at Packwood House I believe) said to Mr Bee one day "I know a place that you would like, a place where you can wear your yellow wellies and get nice and muddy!". Since then we have penciled in Lyveden New Build, especially as they have a coffee shop now ;)

Shugborough Estate, Staffordshire

Slightly further afield, but this gorgeous mansion looks right up my street. The best of both, a fantastic looking house with plenty of gardens to explore.

Sunnycroft, Shropshire

This late Victorian red brick villa looks so interesting. A middle class house virtually unaltered, with a tea room inside the house!

Stoneywell, Leicestershire

We can not wait for Stoneywell to open this year. A house prominent in the Arts and Crafts movement owned by the Gimson family, whose main house in the city was turned into the primary school I attended.

Waddeson Manor, Buckinghamshire

This 19th Century French inspired chateau was featured on a television programme we watched a few weeks ago. Enthralled by its story I can not wait to explore the beautiful house and grounds. I think Mr Bee will be pretty impressed by the woodland playground.

Wightwick Manor, West Midlands

When we visited Moseley Old Hall in July, we were recommended to visit Wightwick Manor, only a stones throw away. The amazing timber framed house boasts amazing William Morris interiors and with gardens to explore, it seems like a winner.

( Places with a strikethrough have been visited this year)