The National Trust parks are perhaps some of the most beautiful and enduringly popular tourist destinations in the UK. The south and the midlands have more than their fair share of gorgeous parks. However, it’s in the north that you’ll find the truly special parks.

Now is the best time to visit. Especially with the increased conservation spend of £148 million in the 2018/2019 season inspiring more people than ever before to join the Trust. It has increased the number of members to 5.6m, from 5.2m the year before with 26.9m visits made to National Trust places. Now that we’re slowly pulling out of the pandemic, our National Trust parks are also bound to be busier than ever before.

But of the dozens of parks available in the north of England, we’ve decided on the four we think should be at the top of your list. So, pack your car with your family and a few snacks and check your car tyres to ensure that your car is in tip-top condition. Then join us on a trip to some of the country’s very best parks.

1. Fountains Abbey, North Yorkshire

Open all year, Fountains Abbey boasts a deer park, Georgian water garden and gorgeous gothic church. Plus some of the most breathtaking and historic ruins you’ll find in the country. The park also has various exhibitions that tell the story of the abbey and explain what the various buildings are gardens were used for “back in the day.” They also host a variety of events such as Christmas choir singing, lighting events, and special events during the summer holidays for the kids. The forest that surrounding the Abbey is the ideal place for a walk with the family or a stroll with the dogs too. Truly a park with something for everyone.

2. Aira Force and Ullswater, Cumbria

A famous park within the Lake District, the Aira Force and Ullswater park is situated right along-side the Ullswater lake. So it makes for a very scenic tour. The forest is expansive and offers dozens of great walks and one very impressive waterfall. You can picnic by the lake or go for a swim or a paddle in the shallow waters. The park also boasts a castle and pleasure garden, which has ornamental trees and native trees, and also many walking and hiking trails. Located close enough to the M6 to be easily accessible. But far enough away to offer an escape from the noise of everyday life This makes Aira Force a true one-of-a-kind experience.

3. Longshaw Estate & Eastern Moors, South Yorkshire

Located on the eastern side of the peak district, Longshaw Park offers acres of moors to explore. It is particularly beautiful in the autumn months. There are dozens of woodland walks to consider which will allow you to get up close and personal with nature. Plus you have the Longshaw Cafe, which offers a warming drink once you’re done hiking for the day.

4. Lindisfarne Castle, Northumberland

If you fancy taking a trip over to a holy island (that’s not actually an island), then Lindisfarne Castle is a great option. To get to the island, you need to cross at the correct times due to the tide. However it’s more than worth it. The castle was built in 1550 by Henry VIII and is one of the best-preserved castles in the region. Situated on the gorgeous Northumberland coast, it is home to various events throughout the year. It even hosts the occasional concert.