Dudmaston Hall

Dudmaston Hall near Bridgnorth has been lived in by the same family for over 875 years, from a Norman knight to today's Hamilton-Russells, and the late 17th-century house is still their home, its rooms scattered with family photographs. The surprise is the galleries, designed by the last owner, Rachel, Lady Labouchere, to hold her botanical collection and her husband Sir George's modern art, including works by Hepworth, Moore and Matisse. Outside, a terraced garden with outdoor sculptures overlooks Big Pool, the Dingle has bridges and stepping stones across the brook, and Comer Woods down the road adds miles of surfaced trails and a cafe. Dogs are welcome on leads outdoors, and there is a family playground and the Orchard Tea-room by the hall. Reviewers single out the garden above all, and the volunteers, who talk happily about the family. One tip from visitors: the lived-in house is small, so allow more time for the grounds.