Beningbrough Hall - civilised, even as country houses go

In brief.

Though not associated with much in the way of an interesting back story, Beningbrough Hall is a refined 18th century country house near York, now run by the National Trust. Though described as Baroque, Beningbrough is quite restrained, with a balanced exterior, fine interior woodwork and a tasteful walled garden. A visit to the hall itself includes period furniture and fittings on the ground floor and changing art exhibitions on the first floor, so overall a visit provides a variety of experiences. 

The hall from the back garden.

What's here?

Though some country houses seem designed to impress with excess, Beningbrough seems more inclined to show off through good taste. On arrival, the walled garden is an obvious first place to visit, and features  borders and fruit trees. Overall, though there are gardens surrounding the house, these are not extensive, so this is not a place to come for exercise. Commendably, there is also a modern Mediterranean garden, reflecting the fact that the gardens have tended to change over time, though with pebbles covering both paths and borders, it seemed overwhelmingly beige.

The walled garden.

A visit to the house is self-paced, though with guides in several rooms to explain what there is to see.  In the absence of striking historical events to associate the interior with, the main features are the (painted or not) wooden carvings and the many portraits. However, the art exhibitions on the first floor seem to be a major feature, and on my visit the exhibition on Mary Delany was interesting and well presented.

As a National Trust property, there are two cafes, which were both busy during my weekend visit, and an appealing shopping area in the stables with plenty gifts and things for the garden.

The stables host the shops.

Practicalities.

Distance from Manchester Town Hall: 78 miles

Drive Time: 1hour 50 minutes

Price: $$

Parking: There is free parking

Food and Drink: There are two cafes, one largely with outdoor seating

Retail therapy: There is a garden shop as well as standard National Trust gifts and books

Child Friendly: There is a play park.

Toilets: Yes

Do it justice in: 2-3 hours

Inside-Outside: 60:40

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