Shugborough Estate near Stafford was the seat of the Anson family, later Earls of Lichfield, whose fortune grew from Admiral Anson's capture of a Spanish treasure galleon; the Georgian mansion, its complete servants' quarters and the apartment of Patrick Lichfield, the 5th Earl and society photographer, are all open. Around them lie 900 acres of parkland grazed by deer, with neo-classical monuments such as Hadrian's Arch, riverside walks, a walled garden where Tamworth pigs are turning the soil, the new Arcadia forest garden taking shape, and Park Farm with its rare breeds for families. Reviewers rate it among the best-run Trust places, singling out the knowledgeable room volunteers and two good cafes: the Mansion tea rooms for a cooked lunch and the Park Farm cafe for light bites. Tips from visitors: enter by Milford Gates only, take the buggy from the car park to the mansion if walking is hard, book a tramper by email in advance, and note that shade is scarce on the dog walks in hot weather.
