Best of British

IF manicured gardens and grand, Downton Abbey-style houses are your thing, you’re going to love our country house picks.

As the new year approaches, Britain’s most grand estates are ready to shine.

Country houses and estates are a great choice for a family day out, with wide-open grounds and historic buildings to explore.

But it’s not all countryside walks and grand buildings – plenty of country estates now have loads to do for children, too.

We’ve rounded up some of the most magnificent country houses across the UK, packed with exciting events, gorgeous grounds and plenty of kids’ activities.

With impressive interiors and gardens made for wandering, here’s the Sun Travel team’s top picks for 2026.

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Chartwell House, Kent

Now I don’t know about you, but the thought of seeing inside the home of one of our Prime Ministers’ was thrilling.

And Chartwell House, the home of Sir Winston Churchill and his family, really did live up to the thrill. 

Inside the stunning country home in Kent, there are lots of the former Prime Minister’s belongings, all laid out just as he himself positioned them. 

But it isn’t just the house that is impressive – there is also a studio in the grounds, which is home to the largest single collection of Winston Churchill’s paintings.

Many are landscapes and they truly are fascinating to look at. Whilst he was no Picasso, Churchill certainly was talented with a paintbrush. 

Outside there is also a rose garden that was designed by Lady Churchill and a lawn which looks over the surrounding countryside.

If you want to grab a quick bite to eat, then head to Landemare Café, which serves light lunches, cakes and hot drinks. 

Travel Reporter, Cyann Fielding

Kentwell Hall, Suffolk

If you want the perfect autumn break, you need to head to Kentwell in Suffolk, which dates back to the 1400s.

It isn’t open all year round, but in the summer you can explore the grounds and gardens.

There are a number of themed days throughout the year.

One of my favourites is Hands-On History, where it takes you back in time to the 16th century.

Otherwise there is the Enchanting Gardens Lit by Night and the Dickensian Christmas events in the winter months.

Or there are Open Air Cinemas and Last Night at the Proms during the warmer months.

Save time to visit the nearby Long Melford too, a very quaint old village.

Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey

Ashridge House, Hertfordshire

Having first visited Ashridge House in 2022, I wouldn’t wait to go back.

Most of the house is actually closed because it’s used for weddings, but I still encourage anyone to go and see it.

It’s perfect to explore either on a crisp winter morning or sunny afternoon as there’s 190 acres of grounds to see from landscaped gardens to woodlands.

Thanks to its sprawling house and estate, it’s been used for filming things like The Dirty Dozen and Maleficent.

When you’re there, make sure to check out the Bakehouse as well which is a cafe in the courtyard that serves hot drinks, tasty pastries as well as breakfast and lunch.

During the festive season, the house also puts on a huge Christmas light display – which happens to be the biggest in Hertfordshire.

It has 20 installations across the estate along with a Ferris wheel that takes visitors up 115 feet into the air.

Travel Reporter, Alice Penwill

Holkham Hall, Norfolk

Holkham Hall in North Norfolk is a sprawling estate featuring a grand hall with beautiful stately rooms, surrounding wildlife and plenty of exciting events throughout the year.

I’ve never visited an estate that has so much to do.

You’ll also find plenty of spots to set up a picnic down by the river of Holkham Park amongst wandering deer, as well as a summer food festival.

The warmer months also see the Ropes Course open for adventurers keen to climb and swing through the treetops.

There’s even a deer and wildlife safari for £6 per person (though if you drive to nearby Snettisham Farm Park, there you can feed the deer by hand).

But Christmas is my favourite time to visit, with craft markets, candlelight tours of the Hall, and even Canine Carolling (a performance from a choir of festively-dressed dogs).

It’s a popular time to visit, with many flocking over after seeing the estate sparkle in Channel 4‘s Christmas at Holkham Hall decorating documentary.

The expansive country estate is also just a short walk away from Holkham Beach – a royal favourite and often visited by the Prince and Princess of Wales.

Travel Writer, Jenna Stevens

Farlam Hall Country House Hotel, Cumbria

What could be better at the end of an epic walk than a glorious country house?

Which is why Farlam Hall in the Cumbrian countryside is perfectly situated, a few miles south of Hadrian’s Wall. 

On a recent week’s hiking holiday along the wall, we stopped overnight at the 4-star property. 

The classically decorated rooms and very comfy beds were the perfect respite from the long days’ walking.

But my favourite bit was the canapes in the drawing room before dinner. 

It made me feel like I was in an Agatha Christie mystery. 

Head of Travel – Digital, Caroline McGuire

Coleton Fishacre, Devon

Hidden in the lanes of Devon, Coleton Fishacre is a stunning “1920s country retreat complete with tropical garden by the sea”, states the National Trust. 

The pretty house used to be a retreat for the D’Oyly Carte family, which included Rupert D’Oyly Carte – the son of Richard D’Oyly Carte who was the mastermind behind the Savoy Hotel.

The interiors are fascinating with lots of Art Deco features – all of which are in perfect condition. 

Outside, visitors will find the RHS-accredited coastal valley garden, full of exotic plants and boasting sea views. 

The entire house feels like exploring a treasure chest, with something exciting around each corner. 

There is also a cafe at the house and a really good gift show with local handmade items. 

Travel Reporter, Cyann Fielding

Heythorp Park, Cotwsolds

ONE of the latest grand country house hotels to join the Warner Hotels group, this imposing 18th century country house set in 440 acres of glorious parkland is just a stone’s throw from Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water.

Follow in the aristocratic footsteps of the Duke of Shrewsbury, who built the house in 1707 with a spot of clay pigeon shooting, archery or indulge in an afternoon tea on the terrace overlooking the stunning grounds.

And yet, for all its grandeur, this is a fantastic value way to enjoy a country house hotel.

Mid-week breaks with Warner include half board and all your entertainment and start from just £190 per night in January 2026.

Indulge in British classics in the Market Kitchen buffet restaurant at breakfast, lunch or dinner or enjoy a la carte fine dining in Brasserie32 and gastro pub classics in The Travelling Duke.

As well as an 18-hole championship golf course there’s a luxurious spa. For the real Downton experience, go for one of the mansion rooms in the original country house.

Head of Travel, Lisa Minot

Wimpole Estate, Cambridgeshire

Wimpole Estate in Cambridgeshire is the kind of place you turn up to for a morning walk, and somehow end up staying all day.

The stately house sits in the middle of the countryside, on a working farm straight out of a picture book.

This National Trust estate is perfect for strolls down woodland walkways before settling down in the Old Rectory for tea and homemade scones.

Plus the 17th century mansion is well worth stepping inside to poke around its ornate rooms.

Families can head to Home Farm to meet rare-breed animals, climb on tractors and watch the shire horses at work.

There’s always something happening too, with open-air theatre in the warmer months and popular harvest fairs in the autumn.

And if you want a postcard-perfect picture, the walk up to the Gothic Tower gives you some of the dreamiest views in Cambridgeshire.

Travel Writer, Jenna Stevens

CORNWALL has long been a favourite among UK holiday destinations, thanks to its stunning beaches, fascinating history and natural inland beauty.

So if you’re considering cooking a trip tot he popular South West county this year, take a look at some of our favourite local stays in recent years.

How The Sun’s travel team reviews accommodation

This list includes Cornish hotels, holiday parks, cottages and campsites our team has visited and fallen in love with.

Some journalists have travelled with their families while others have journeyed solo.

When it comes to picking our favourites we account for everything from costs to location, design, hospitality and more.

We don’t just look at what’s trending but those little-known gems that will stay with you in the years to come.

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Best places to stay in Cornwall

Best luxury holiday home

8 Woodlands, Newquay

A retreat so large it could fit a family of eight, the adequately named 8 Woodlands towers over a stunning and quiet estuary.

Perched on top of a cliff, this mammoth contemporary holiday home was the ideal country escape for our beauty editor Tara Ledden.

Even with seven of her nearest and dearest with her, there was never a shortage of space.

Just 30 seconds from the back door, they could dip their toes in the sandy estuary bed or pump up a paddleboard (also provided) and brave the waters.

The surrounding nature is not the only luxury this stay has to offer – the pad comes with a lush garden complete with its own hot tub and barbecue.

Embellished with coastal-inspired interiors, families will be fully equipped with a kitchen, dining area, Smart TVs, Sonos speakers and child safety gates on each of the three floors.

The holiday home is not as remote as its views suggest – visitors can reach Newquay’s high street with just a five-minute drive or walk for 20 minutes.

Best holiday park for families with dogs

Parbola Holiday Park, Hayle

There’s no more authentic family stay in Cornwall than at Parbola Holiday Park.

Hugged by 16 acres of woodland and located just a ten-minute drive from Hayle Town, this stay gives holidaymakers the best of both worlds – a peaceful rural haven and a plethora of activities.

Writing for The Sun, Kate Jackson and Irfan Cemal described Parbola Holiday Park as perfect for families.

Highlights for their children included the heated outdoor swimming pool, a box of balls and bats to borrow and the Safari Tent, a place equipped with board games and books.

Meanwhile, the adults enjoyed the small but appreciated touches such as a package of tea, milk and delicious Cornish biscuits as they arrived or the wood-fired pizza fan that visits every Monday.

And to add to the list of this holiday park‘s many charms, Parbola is also dog-friendly.

Speaking about her stay Kate said: “The Parbola holiday park in Cornwall caters for people like us.”

Parbola offers the best of both worlds. Away from the usual hotspots, five miles inland from the north coast, it provides a haven that, despite its obvious popularity, was always peaceful.”

Best hotel for food

St Tudy Inn, St Tudy

After an action-packed day on your feet, The St Tudy Inn is the perfect spot to sit back by a roaring fire and enjoy some heart-warming grub.

With the appearance of a traditional 16th-century stone cottage, many would not assume that some diners travel over 40 minutes to just eathere.

During her visit, writer for The Sun Julia Richardson relished in dishes cooked by head chef James Lean, who used to work for Gordon Ramsey.

Expect exquisite sea-themed cuisine such as hake, cuttlefish and chorizo stew or steamed mussels.

And food is not the only thing this cosy Cornish pub has to offer – just across the car park, a converted barn holds four charming rooms paired with tartan bedspreads and patterned cushions.

Best hotel in Newquay

Newquay Beach Hotel, Newquay

Named Beached Front Hotel of the Year in South-West England 2024 by Travel & Hospitality Awards, the boutique stay rests just opposite Newquay‘s main beach – Tolcarne.

It’s here that our boxing reporter Wally Downes Jr relaxed after a stop at the Newquay Zoo.

With stellar beach views and an art deco interior – this stay is a feast for the eyes, from the designer velvet scallop chairs to the geometric glass.

And if you’re looking to grab a bite to eat, you will not be left hungry.

Newquay Beach Hotels offers numerous classic dishes as well as a fully stocked cocktail bar.

A nice extra is the Abangamba playroom for the kids.

Best holiday cottage for families

Bosinver Farm Cottages, Trelowth

You might be tempted to stick to Cornwall’s coasts but its inland valleys are just as impressive as its cliffs.

Tucked away between the quaint town of St Austell and the seaside village of Mevagissey is this hidden gem.

Here you’ll find Bosinver’s Farm Cottage – a set of 20 luxury self-catering cottages full of magical Cornish spirit.

The cute accommodation Features Writer Emma Pietras stayed in was made of straw and wood bales and its beams were taken from an old hospital – all of which added to the location’s timeless feel.

Paired with a hot tub and stunning valley views this is the perfect place to kick back and relax.

A particular highlight is the £475 worth of included activities such as a pool, animal feeding, pony rides, and outdoor and indoor play.

It is no surprise that these pads won Visit England’s Best Family-Friendly Accommodation in 2017.

In her review, Pietras had this to say: “As a mum to a toddler, previous holidays have been far from stress-free, but when you’re surrounded by 35 acres of meadows, landscaped gardens and woodland, it’s hard not to feel relaxed.”

It feels as if the owners have thought of every little detail.”

Best hotel with a sea view

Polurrian on the Lizard, Mullion

The Polurrian on the Lizard was once the vacation spot of Winston Churchill.

More recently this beautiful piece of history was visited by The Sun writer Ellie Ross who dubbed it as ‘one of Cornwall’s best kept secrets’.

With its glamorous white exterior looming over the lizard peninsula, this enchanting stay boasts a secluded beach and sea views so good you might feel like you are in a movie.

The 1890s hotel also comes along with a tennis court clifftop garden, playground and even indoor and outdoor pools.

A great way to watch the sunset over the sea is at its dog-friendly restaurant which serves everything from fish and chips to wood-fired pizza.

And according to Ellie, the cocktails were a standout.

Best spa hotel

Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa, Newquay

With views that rival the Maldives or the Caribbean, Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa overlooks one of Newquay’s more private beaches.

Visitors will feel worlds away sipping speciality cocktails at the hotel’s Bay Bar – a spot particularly good for watching the sunset.

This adults-only hotel is where Sun writer Simon Copeland spent two tranquil nights.

And that was in part credit to Fistral Beach Hotel’s luxurious spa that offered rejuvenating treatments he said “wouldn’t be out of place in some Balinese temple”.

All spa day packages included a pool, steam room, hot tub, sauna and refreshments.

Equally as lavish as the spa is the hotel’s beautifully presented food that nods to Cornish cuisine with innovative twists.

Best spot for camping

Trevornick Holiday Park, Holywell

While Cornwall’s buccaneering pirates and smugglers are long gone, the spirit of adventure can still be found in camping.

At least that’s what one of our writers found out on their trip to Trevornick Holiday Park.

Located on Cornwall’s north coast, you can set up a tent not far from Holywell’s pristine sandy beach.

Or if wrestling with a tent is off-putting, Trevornick Holiday Park also offers readymade tents.

These come fully equipped with lights, and even a fridge and TV.

Expect action-packed fun, as this holiday park not only includes a pool and spa but also a golf course, soft play centre, arcade and even a surf school.

As our writer soon realised: “The only problem was there simply wasn’t time to do everything the park had to offer.

“But it’s such a treasure that, like pirate ghosts, we’re sure to return.”

Best spot for glamping

Tremeer Farm, Lanteglos-by-fowey

A more unconventional retreat but nevertheless more rewarding, Tremeer Farm is the ideal spot to return to basics.

Expect jaw-dropping nature, animals, playing games, an open fire, and a clear night sky.

And together with the elegant white 18th-century Mongolian-style yurts to sleep in, you might never want to leave.

Tremeer Farm’s owners have thought of everything – from a hot tub to a kitchen equipped with cooking basics, a hammock, BBQ, fire pit and even a cosy wood-burning stove.

As The Sun Online Travel found out there is no better way to immerse yourself in Cornwall’s beauty.

If you have a car, the stay is just a stone’s throw away from the untouched fishing village of Polperro and otherworldly Lantivet Bay

Although travelling to Cornwall during its peak season is a no-brainer, we also recommend visiting this gorgeous peninsula in the winter.

Cornwall has a reputation for being a expensive destination – here we break down how you can visit on a budget thanks to our Hols from £9.50.