Dunham Massey Hall & Gardens
Dunham Massey Hall & Gardens
Dunham Massey Hall & Gardens
4.5
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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4.5
2,587 reviews
Excellent
1,491
Very good
696
Average
183
Poor
99
Terrible
118
centralscrutiniser
Solihull, UK44 contributions
May 2024 • Family
We didn't realise that this is one of the NT's top few attractions by volume, but once you arrive you quickly get an idea of the scale. This starts at the car park with manned guard posts and goes on to the massive, modern visitor centre with cafe, shop, etc. Very friendly people welcoming you in and then plenty to do as a start. The deer walk is a big attraction as well as the gardens, and the house itself is an interesting one to look around with plenty of people dressed up to answer questions, or make lavender bags in our case. Happily this is one of the NT houses in which photos are allowed as well.
We didn't realise at the time that you can pay separately for different bits of the site (house, gardens, etc) so being repeatedly asked to show our cards did make it feel like we were trying to cross the Berlin wall, but the reason for that was clearer once we found out about the different entrance fees for different bits.
Very handy from the motorway so works well as a stop off on a journey up the M6. The restaurant was fantastic with a hearty sausage bap with wedges very reasonably priced.
Overall great visit and one of the NT houses where you could easily spend close on a full day.
We didn't realise at the time that you can pay separately for different bits of the site (house, gardens, etc) so being repeatedly asked to show our cards did make it feel like we were trying to cross the Berlin wall, but the reason for that was clearer once we found out about the different entrance fees for different bits.
Very handy from the motorway so works well as a stop off on a journey up the M6. The restaurant was fantastic with a hearty sausage bap with wedges very reasonably priced.
Overall great visit and one of the NT houses where you could easily spend close on a full day.
Written 28 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
sarah W
Audley, UK69 contributions
Dec 2024 • Couples
Yet again, Dunham Massey’s team of elves have knocked it out of the festive ball park.
We are light connoisseurs and like moths around a fairy light, make our Christmas memories wandering light trails, normally soaked to the skin thanks to inclement weather.
This is, by far, our annual favorite.
A submergence for the senses, the intelligent use of music and light were completely enchanting. Highlights included the display of real mini fires powering the silhouettes waltzing above, the birdsong and candy cane walk.
The Naked Marshmallow stop was a reasonably priced treat and such fun to toast while watching the light display behind. 2£ for a chunk that occupied me for 20 mins - bargain.
If you are going to route march from insta stop to insta stop braying into a mobile about kitchen extensions, then you will most definitely miss out. The joy of this is being in the moment and being submerged. If you are more focused on the next attraction, cordially suggest slowing down and focusing.
Great idea to have the fairground to one side - that way it’s an option, not a cash grab.
Tasteful, engaging and consuming, we spent two hours lost in the beauty of nature and lights. Thank you to the team and the creative community behind it. A brilliant night out!
We are light connoisseurs and like moths around a fairy light, make our Christmas memories wandering light trails, normally soaked to the skin thanks to inclement weather.
This is, by far, our annual favorite.
A submergence for the senses, the intelligent use of music and light were completely enchanting. Highlights included the display of real mini fires powering the silhouettes waltzing above, the birdsong and candy cane walk.
The Naked Marshmallow stop was a reasonably priced treat and such fun to toast while watching the light display behind. 2£ for a chunk that occupied me for 20 mins - bargain.
If you are going to route march from insta stop to insta stop braying into a mobile about kitchen extensions, then you will most definitely miss out. The joy of this is being in the moment and being submerged. If you are more focused on the next attraction, cordially suggest slowing down and focusing.
Great idea to have the fairground to one side - that way it’s an option, not a cash grab.
Tasteful, engaging and consuming, we spent two hours lost in the beauty of nature and lights. Thank you to the team and the creative community behind it. A brilliant night out!
Written 27 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mike D
Audley, UK52 contributions
Dec 2024 • Couples
Visiting Dunham Massey Christmas lights on Boxing Day has turned into an annual celebration for me and my wonderful partner.
From the moment you arrive everything is well
Organised with the parking marshals guiding you to your destination.
We popped into the shop which is a first for us and picked up some wonderful Christmas decorations which were heavily discounted as a memory of the night.
As we headed towards the walk we were greeted by the traditional Dunham Deer which stand tall and proud.
You have two choses go left for food, drinks and fairground rides or right for the magical light trail .
Food and drink prices are on parr with most places this time of year and certainly cheaper than most if not all xmas markets.
We ventured forwards towards the lights and swiftly had our tickets scanned by a happy member of their team which started our light trail with a “ happy Christmas “
The lights are quite magical and yet whilst being busy at no point were we rushed through by any staff.
The trail winds through the gardens so you get multiple views on some displays which gives you extra photo opportunities.
The music adds that extra dimension to the lights and amazingly they have it so well set out that the different displays don’t over play each other.
The marshmallows half way around are fantastic and at £2.00 each with a variety of flavours available are a nice treat ( so good we bought another 6 for home as they were delicious).
You then follow the trail which seemed to have a new route compared with previous years which again increased the opportunity for new displays .
The final stretch takes you too the hall with a light and music experience which finishes the night off but no there’s still more to come with a traditional Santa and more lights and music on the lake.
All in all we spent 2 hours with huge smiles on our faces as this years lights and music were the best we’ve seen here at Dunham Massey and knocked it out of the park when compared against all the others we have seen (which is quite a few)
Best advice is don’t rush around like most appear to be doing but enjoy the sensory experience
From the moment you arrive everything is well
Organised with the parking marshals guiding you to your destination.
We popped into the shop which is a first for us and picked up some wonderful Christmas decorations which were heavily discounted as a memory of the night.
As we headed towards the walk we were greeted by the traditional Dunham Deer which stand tall and proud.
You have two choses go left for food, drinks and fairground rides or right for the magical light trail .
Food and drink prices are on parr with most places this time of year and certainly cheaper than most if not all xmas markets.
We ventured forwards towards the lights and swiftly had our tickets scanned by a happy member of their team which started our light trail with a “ happy Christmas “
The lights are quite magical and yet whilst being busy at no point were we rushed through by any staff.
The trail winds through the gardens so you get multiple views on some displays which gives you extra photo opportunities.
The music adds that extra dimension to the lights and amazingly they have it so well set out that the different displays don’t over play each other.
The marshmallows half way around are fantastic and at £2.00 each with a variety of flavours available are a nice treat ( so good we bought another 6 for home as they were delicious).
You then follow the trail which seemed to have a new route compared with previous years which again increased the opportunity for new displays .
The final stretch takes you too the hall with a light and music experience which finishes the night off but no there’s still more to come with a traditional Santa and more lights and music on the lake.
All in all we spent 2 hours with huge smiles on our faces as this years lights and music were the best we’ve seen here at Dunham Massey and knocked it out of the park when compared against all the others we have seen (which is quite a few)
Best advice is don’t rush around like most appear to be doing but enjoy the sensory experience
Written 27 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
sheplobsters
Manchester, UK82 contributions
Aug 2024 • Couples
Went with my wife and dog on a sunny Saturday in August.
This is out third visit and cannot comment on the house as we always have our dog with us. I do agree with the comments about a bin shortage, especially in the formal gardens and there could be more seating but overall it was a lovely relaxing day at odds with the ridiculous rioting taking place elsewhere after the Southport tragedy.
I should add we went on a newspaper promotion this time. I emailed in advance to check a couple of things and got friendly prompt replies. The woman at the ticket booth was great on arrival as were the 2 guys in the Stables coffee shop.
In terms of tips I would say go in the morning with a view to having a picnic lunch in the formal gardens as it's quieter than the afternoon. If you have a dog maube treat it to the doggy ice cream as ours loved it and its affordable at £2.70. Oh and The Stables Coffee shop was much quieter than the main cafe. The coffee here is always decent and you get a small discount with your own cup.
The only downer was people handing out flyers highlighting the fact that NT uses Barclays Bank despite them beingvthe boggest funder of fossil fuels in Europe which I was not aware of.
Great day overall and bravo to the NT and this venue for recruiting and training great staff so well.
This is out third visit and cannot comment on the house as we always have our dog with us. I do agree with the comments about a bin shortage, especially in the formal gardens and there could be more seating but overall it was a lovely relaxing day at odds with the ridiculous rioting taking place elsewhere after the Southport tragedy.
I should add we went on a newspaper promotion this time. I emailed in advance to check a couple of things and got friendly prompt replies. The woman at the ticket booth was great on arrival as were the 2 guys in the Stables coffee shop.
In terms of tips I would say go in the morning with a view to having a picnic lunch in the formal gardens as it's quieter than the afternoon. If you have a dog maube treat it to the doggy ice cream as ours loved it and its affordable at £2.70. Oh and The Stables Coffee shop was much quieter than the main cafe. The coffee here is always decent and you get a small discount with your own cup.
The only downer was people handing out flyers highlighting the fact that NT uses Barclays Bank despite them beingvthe boggest funder of fossil fuels in Europe which I was not aware of.
Great day overall and bravo to the NT and this venue for recruiting and training great staff so well.
Written 4 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bryan M-G
Oldbury, UK829 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
We were travelling to Ramsbottom for a few days and wanted somewher to stop on the way. Initially, we were going to Tatton Park, but saw that even National Trust members now have to pay for parking, so chose here instead and were very glad to have done so. We first had a light lunch in the cafe, then visited the house which we found very interesting, especially as the guides in the rooms brought the house to life.
Written 21 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
J B
18 contributions
May 2024 • Couples
Such lovely grounds and so wonderful to see the deer wandering freely and very close. After a quick lunch in the restaurant we went into the house which was very interesting, particularly the kitchen and as usual the guides inside were chatty and informative.
After wandering around the grounds we visited the Mill which again was brought to life by the 2 guides (Adam and someone whose name I didn't catch - apologies). We were lucky to be the only 3 there so it was perfect to ask questions.
A very calming and interesting place to visit.
After wandering around the grounds we visited the Mill which again was brought to life by the 2 guides (Adam and someone whose name I didn't catch - apologies). We were lucky to be the only 3 there so it was perfect to ask questions.
A very calming and interesting place to visit.
Written 22 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
veryeasilyconfused
Crewe, UK279 contributions
Mar 2024 • Family
Visited Dunham Massey with family and was really impressed. As part of the easter activities there was an egg hunt which was hugely popular and the place was buzzing. The shop had plenty of lovely items for sale and the cafe was really popular so we decided not to grab a coffee but there were several other places to go for ice creams etc if we had wanted to. We decided to stick with the gardens rather than visit the hall. The gardens were lovely and really fragrant. At various points there were kids easter activities. We also walked around the deer gardens which where amazing. To get so close to the deers was wonderful. Would definitely recommend
Written 30 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Damian R
Ellesmere Port, UK13 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
Had a fantastic day today. We got a wheelchair from the visitor's centre for my Mum as it's a fair walk round and through the house. The lady on reception was brilliant. When we got to the house, the lady greeting us explained where we could go in the wheelchair and explained someone would meet us to guide us round and take us to the lifts. Ailsa came and found us and stayed with us throughout our whole visit in the house. Taking us up in the wheelchair lift to the parts wheelchairs could go, giving us info along the way and when we got as far as we could in the wheelchair, I had a roam around upstairs while Ailsa set up a tablet so my Mum could watch a video on all the rooms she's couldn't get up upstairs and a bit of history of the place. This made our day so much more enjoyable as we could relax and knew we were looked after. We visited the Stables restaurant which was lovely and I was able to have a great walk while pushing Mum round in the wheelchair round the gardens and Deer Park. Such a great day and little things make a huge difference so thanks to everyone at Dunham Massey and especially Ailsa who made our whole day
Written 6 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Elizabeth S
Derbyshire, UK94 contributions
Mar 2024 • Friends
We met up with friends yesterday at Dunham Massey and had a great day out. The house was really interesting and full of lovely paintings and artifacts, and the garden had a beautiful display of spring bulbs. We walked around the deer park - nice firm dry path for walking on in these very wet times! Lunch in the stables cafe was delicious and very promptly served. Plus a very attractive shop. Thank you to all the staff and volunteers for making that all possible. We can highly recommend.
Written 16 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Stephen C
Coventry, UK31 contributions
Mar 2024 • Couples
Had great day out at Dunham Massey. Were very impressed by the many elegant rooms in the huge fully furnished hall. It was very pleasant walking around the vast parkland on hard pathways, not having to plough through thick mud like at some places. The herd of fallow deer proved very popular with photographers. The garden is beautiful. We've been visiting National Trust properties for many years and rate this as one of the best. Will definitely return.
Written 25 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Went to Dunham Massey today after being told it was £7 per car, was shocked when arriving to find out had to pay £8 per person myself wife and my father. Some price to walk the grounds and have our picnic. On that amount will not be going again.
Written 17 July 2022
National Trust membership gets you in free
Written 20 May 2023
Do you have to pay to walk around the park if you arrive by foot? Last time I visited the park was over two years ago and it was free except for the house, but now from the website I’m confused on how it works.
Written 19 June 2022
No. It's free to enter on foot though there might be a charge to enter the house. Enjoy your visit 😊
Written 21 June 2022
My friend and I had a very good time photographing the deer, and went into the garden gated area, expecting to pay there for the gardens same as last time we went before covid, but we were told that we must go back to the shop to get tickets, I am a long standing member my friends is not, but being in our late seventies, it was just too much walking for us and we sadly gave up on the garden walk. surely in this day and age you can do better.. than this primitive way, we cannot always remember things. Do you need to be so rigid? And why no machine at the small garden office,, come on folks.
Written 31 May 2022
I also saw lots of dogs on leads in the gardens and grounds. The NT hand book says " Dogs welcome on short leads in gardens (after midday) and park. (ASSISTANCE DOGS ONLY IN HISTORIC BUILDINGS)
I saw dogs on leads quite near deer and the deer did not seem at all bothered.
Written 29 May 2022
I've seen people climbing over the styles to get into Dunham. How does it work for entry fees If people do this?
Written 24 August 2021
Access to the parkland on foot is free.
There are charges to enter the Car Park ,hall and gardens only.
Lots of people park in Dunham village and walk in over the Style you mention.
Written 25 August 2021
Hollz
United Kingdom
We'd like to cycle to Dunham Massey, as we live quite close. Are there bike racks? The website doesn't say.
Written 17 June 2021
Sorry but I have never seen any. Often seen cyclists in the area but not in the grounds.
Best you try phoning if no info on website as I am sure the NT would want you to visit.
Written 18 June 2021
What is the best time of year to see the deer? Can you get close and feed them?
Written 7 August 2020
Agree with first answer. Do not feed the deer, signs are all over the parkland to this effect. They are WILD animals and can attack if you frighten them although more likely to run away.
Some days you will have to go further into the grounds to see them but on several occasions have seen them near the stables and the mill.
Enjoy your visit
Written 12 August 2020
Do I have to book tickets if I want to go tomorrow
Written 12 June 2020
If I have a blue badge do I still have to pay for parking
Written 12 June 2020
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