England Guide
Yorkshire
Harewood House
Opening time: Mid-March– Oct daily 11am–4.30pm, grounds & bird garden 10am–5pm
Price: July, Aug & bank hol weekends £13.15, otherwise £11.30; grounds & bird garden only £10.90/£8.80
Address: 7 miles north of Leeds (bus #36)
Website: www.harewood.org
The stately home of Harewood is still the home of the Earl and Countess of Harewood. It was designed and decorated by one of the greatest architectural teams ever assembled. Conceived in 1759 by York architect John Carr, the building was finished by Robert Adam, the furniture made by Thomas Chippendale and the gardens laid out by Capability Brown. To cap it all, a sweeping terrace designed by Sir Charles Barry (architect of London's Houses of Parliament) overlooks the gardens. There's an enormous amount to see and do, with daily tours, talks and exhibitions included in the entrance fee, while outside in the magnificent grounds is an adventure playground and renowned Bird Garden. Here, four acres of aviaries cage over 150 species – the penguins get fed at 2pm.