Historic estates in the Manchester area for a romantic date

If you’re planning a romantic date and want to immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning architecture of Manchester, visiting one of the city’s country estates is a perfect idea. These venues offer beautiful grounds, fascinating history and an escape from the hustle and bustle that make for an unforgettable date experience. Here’s a some of the most enchanting historical estates around Manchester:

Tatton Park

Location: Knutsford, Cheshire.

Tatton Park is one of the most complete medieval estates in England which was owned by the Egerton family for nearly 400 years until it was bequeathed to the National Trust in 1958.

What you’ll see: The estate features a stunning 18th-century mansion, beautifully landscaped gardens, and a 1,000-acre deer park. There’s also a working farm, a medieval Old Hall, and various shops and cafes. For a romantic date, take a leisurely stroll through the Italian Garden, have a picnic by the lake, or explore the exotic plants in the glasshouses.

Lyme Park

Location: Disley, Cheshire.

History: Lyme Park is a magnificent estate that dates back to the 16th century. The Legh family owned the estate for over 600 years before it was given to the National Trust in 1946. The estate gained fame as the filming location for Mr. Darcy’s Pemberley in the BBC adaptation of “Pride and Prejudice.”

What you’ll see: The estate features an impressive mansion, extensive gardens, and a deer park. Highlights include the Reflection Lake (from Mr Darcy’s famous scene!), the Orangery, and the Italianate gardens. Enjoy romantic walks through the formal gardens, have a cosy afternoon tea in the Timber Yard Cafe, then explore the moorlands and woodlands surrounding the estate.

Heaton Park

Location: Manchester.

History: Heaton Park is one of the largest municipal parks in Europe, covering over 600 acres. The park’s centerpiece is Heaton Hall, a neoclassical country house built in the late 18th century for the 1st Earl of Wilton.

What you’ll see: The park offers a range of attractions, including boating lakes, an animal centre, golf courses, and woodland trails. For a romantic outing, you can rent a rowboat on the lake, enjoy a picnic in the park’s picturesque meadows, explore the ornamental gardens and historic buildings.

Dunham Massey

Location: Altrincham, Greater Manchester.

History: Dunham Massey is an elegant Georgian house surrounded by a large deer park. The estate has been owned by the Booth and Grey families since the early 17th century and was gifted to the National Trust in 1976.

What you’ll see: The estate includes a grand mansion, extensive gardens, and a deer park. You can explore the lavish interiors of the house, take a romantic walk through the rose garden, or spot deer in the ancient parkland. The estate also features a cafe and a gift shop for refreshments and souvenirs.

Bramall Hall

Location: Bramhall, Stockport.

History: Bramall Hall is a beautifully preserved Tudor manor house with origins dating back to the Middle Ages. The Davenport family owned the estate for around 500 years before it was sold to the local council in the 20th century.

What you’ll see: The hall features stunning timber-framed architecture, period rooms, and beautifully landscaped gardens. You can take guided tours of the historic house, explore the tranquil gardens, or enjoy a meal at the on-site cafe. The surrounding parkland offers lovely walking trails and picnic spots.

Quarry Bank Mill and Styal Estate

Location: Styal, Cheshire

History: Quarry Bank Mill is one of the best-preserved textile mills from the Industrial Revolution, founded in 1784 by Samuel Greg. The estate includes the mill, the Greg family’s home, and the workers’ village of Styal.

What you’ll see: The estate offers guided tours of the mill, showcasing its impressive machinery and history. You can also explore the picturesque gardens, take a walk along the River Bollin, and visit the quaint village of Styal. The estate has a cafe and a gift shop, perfect for a relaxing break during your visit. Styal is also home to a closed category women’s prison and the Clink restaurant which is run as part of the prison programme to reduce reoffending.