Brodsworth Hall & Gardens

Brodsworth, Doncaster

DN5 7XJ

Tel: 01302 724969

Fax: 01302 337165

Crimson silk, chandeliers and vast gilt-framed mirrors are among the many opulent features of Brodsworth Hall

But this is no pristine showcase. This fine country house has been preserved with the patina of wear, showing how a wealthy family and their servants really lived during 150 years of occupation. Visitors can gain a further insight into the family's life and loves through a series of exhibitions including an exploration of the family's love of racing, following the recent acquisition of the Goodwood Cup.

A rare survival from the Victorian Age, the 15 acres of gardens have been restored to their 1860s heyday. A collection of grand gardens in miniature, with enchanting features like the pleasure grounds, with their glorious fountain centre-piece, summerhouse, fern dell, pet cemetery and topiary, they evocatively reveal the desires and aspirations of Victorian country gentry.

Facilities include Tea Rooms for 70, plus 24 seats outdoors, toilets and gift shop. Most of the house and the formal gardens are accessible to disabled visitors. The tour of the house takes 60 minutes minimum, allow at least 30 minutes extra for the gardens.

Four new rooms in the Hall were opened to the public in 2008, including 'Emily's Kitchen' or the 'Still Room', originally used for making jams, custards and preserves. The scullery can also be viewed, along with two further bedrooms on the first floor. Outside, a new Alpine garden has been planted with Alpine species inspired by Brodsworth's history. These new additions, coupled with the Work and Play exhibition and garden trail recently introduced, will make your visit to this amazing Victorian house even more absorbing. The exhibition features recorded memories and original photographs, capturing glimpses of the private lives of the people who lived on the estate - the family, the servants and the workers.