Mr Straw's House

Mr Straw's House is an Edwardian semi in Worksop that grocer William Straw's family moved into in 1923 and that his sons William and Walter left almost untouched after their father died in 1932, throwing little away for over 60 years. When William junior died in 1990 he left the house and around 30,000 possessions to the National Trust, and it opened in 1993 with coats still on their hooks. No 5 next door holds the reception, a small tea room and displays of objects normally hidden in drawers, while the back garden has picnic benches and a greenhouse of Walter's cacti. Dogs on leads are welcome in the orchard and back garden, with assistance dogs only indoors. The Trust's Worksop walk from the house is an easy 2.5-mile urban route past the family's shop and church. Reviewers are unanimous about the knowledgeable, friendly guides. Tips from visitors: book a timed slot in advance, as tours take only four people, and park free in the orchard opposite. Bags must be left at reception and both houses have flights of steep stairs.