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Tatton Park: Historic Estate and Gardens in Cheshire

Explore Tatton Park’s historic mansion, stunning gardens, working farm, and vast deer park in the heart of Cheshire’s countryside.

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Tatton Park is a vast 1,000-acre historic estate near Knutsford, Cheshire, featuring a grand neo-classical mansion, medieval Old Hall, extensive formal gardens, a rare-breed working farm, and deer park. Visitors enjoy scenic walks, diverse gardens including Italian and Japanese styles, family-friendly activities, and over 100 annual events. The estate blends cultural heritage with natural beauty, offering year-round attractions in a tranquil rural setting.

A brief summary to National Trust - Tatton Park

  • Tatton Park Gardens, Knutsford, WA16 6QN, GB
  • +441625374435
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2 to 5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase the 'Totally Tatton' ticket for combined access to the Mansion, Gardens, and Farm to save on entry fees.
  • Visit the Japanese Garden on designated open days as it has limited opening times separate from the main gardens.
  • Use electric buggies available in the gardens if you prefer less walking or have mobility needs.
  • Check the event calendar before visiting to experience special seasonal activities and exhibitions.
  • Dogs are welcome in many outdoor areas, but please keep them on leads and respect wildlife, especially during the autumn rut.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Tatton Park is accessible by car via the M56 (Junction 7) and M6 (Junction 19). Parking is available on-site with a daily fee of approximately £9. Limited blue badge parking is provided close to main attractions. Travel time from Manchester city center is about 35-50 minutes depending on traffic.

  • Train and Walk

    Knutsford Railway Station is approximately 800 meters from Tatton Park. From the station, it is a 10-15 minute walk on mostly flat terrain to the park entrance. The route is suitable for most walkers but may be challenging with heavy luggage.

  • Bus

    Local bus services connect Knutsford town center to surrounding areas. From Knutsford, a short taxi ride or a 15-minute walk leads to Tatton Park. Bus schedules vary, so check local timetables in advance.

National Trust - Tatton Park location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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A Storied Landscape of Heritage and Nature

Tatton Park spans an impressive 1,000 acres of parkland in Cheshire, combining centuries of history with natural beauty. The estate includes a medieval Old Hall dating back 500 years, a grand neo-classical Mansion once home to the Egerton family, and extensive deer parkland that invites peaceful walks and wildlife observation. The park’s landscape reflects a rich tapestry of English heritage, where historic architecture nestles amid rolling meadows and ancient woodlands.

Gardens of Distinctive Character and Design

Within the estate, 50 acres of formal gardens showcase a variety of horticultural styles. Visitors can explore the Italian Garden with its classical symmetry, the tranquil Japanese Garden featuring traditional design elements, and a walled kitchen garden that highlights heritage plants. These gardens are carefully maintained to provide seasonal blooms and serene settings for reflection and photography. The gardens open daily during the main season, allowing ample opportunity to appreciate their evolving beauty.

Engaging Farm and Family Activities

Tatton Park’s working farm offers a glimpse into rural life with rare-breed animals and traditional farming practices preserved since the 1930s. The farm is open from Tuesday to Sunday during the main season and includes interactive experiences for children, such as adventure play areas, woodland trails, and den-building zones. This blend of education and recreation makes Tatton Park a popular destination for families seeking both fun and learning in a countryside environment.

Events and Seasonal Celebrations

Throughout the year, Tatton Park hosts over 100 events ranging from historical reenactments to festive celebrations. Seasonal highlights include the Yuletide Gathering with storytelling and music, the Glittering Garden Trail illuminating folklore, and themed trails like the Halloween Skellies & Wellies. These events animate the estate with cultural vibrancy and invite visitors to experience the park’s heritage in engaging, immersive ways.

Visitor Facilities and Accessibility

The Stableyard area serves as the hub for amenities, featuring the Stables Restaurant, Gardener’s Cottage Tea Room, gift shops, and a bookshop. Accessibility is prioritized with electric buggies available for garden tours, wheelchair access in key areas, and accessible toilets. Parking is available with designated spaces for blue badge holders, and drop-off points near the Mansion. The estate is pet friendly, with designated dog walking areas and guidelines to protect wildlife.

Planning Your Visit and Practical Information

Tatton Park is generally open daily from late March to October, with shorter hours and some closures in the low season. Entry fees vary by attraction, with options for single-site tickets or combined access to the Mansion, Gardens, and Farm. National Trust members enjoy free entry to the house and gardens but pay for parking. The estate is easily reached by car and public transport, with Knutsford Railway Station approximately half a mile away. Visitors are encouraged to book tickets online in advance during peak periods.

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