If you’re a lover of the outdoors and have a passion for exploring the wonders of the UK then this is certainly for you!

Fans of the National Trust will be excited to know that over 130 gardens and parklands, as well as 9 houses, have recently been reopened! There are, of course, strict safety measures in place but if we can once again enjoy these beautiful sites, it is definitely worth it.

We’ve put together some of the best National Trust sites to relax, unwind, explore and leave the stress behind you!

For relaxing

Just looking at this photo is making us feel relaxed! Visit Claremont Landscape Garden for a true escape from daily life! The 18th-century garden is an oasis in the heart of Surrey within easy reach of London but far enough to be out of the city. Walk around and play ‘Beast Bingo’ to spot all of the beautiful creatures and wildlife or have fun spotting the 50 things hidden around the garden.

For family fun

For a day full of exploring, learning and adventure, visit Dolaucothi gold mines! It’s set amid wooded hillsides of the Cambrian mountains overlooking the beautiful Cothi Valley. There are fabulous guided tours to discover the gold mining methods of the Roman era where you might even find yourself some gold! Along the way, you can enjoy some beautiful scenery and some beautiful nature spots.

For the beach fix

Coast, countryside and castles, the Northumberland Coast really has got it all! If you’ve not been able to get abroad this year, this is the perfect staycation with something for everyone. Relax on the sandy beaches, walk along the rocky shores, spot puffins and seals, discover beautiful castles and enjoy stunning views, all in one place. Need we say any more?

For dog walking

Lanhydrock is a stunning late Victorian country house with a beautiful garden and wooded estate. There are plenty of walks and trails through the woods that are perfect to experience with your furry companion! You can even enjoy a bite to eat with your dogs at the stable café where you can treat them to some of Lanhydrock’s famous bone-shaped biscuits!

For long walks

If you love a long scenic walk, Dunwich Heath is the perfect place for you! From July to September, the route is alive with colour and full of natures finest spots. It is home to special species such as Dartford warbler, nightjar, woodlark and ant-lion. The route takes around 90 minutes so it’s ideal for a family day out too!

For history

Combine your love of walking and history at Blickling Estate walk in Norfolk! The estate was once home to the Boleyn family so you can walk in the footsteps of Anne Boleyn herself! It stretches over 4.5 miles and has some beautiful sights and places to relax or eat along the way.

Some tips to keep in mind when attending the National Trust spots:

• Check the website to find out if you need to book before you go. Some places will need to keep an eye on numbers for safety.
• One way systems and social distancing plans have been put in place to keep visitors safe.
• Dogs will need to be kept on a lead in certain places.
• Natural play trails are open to be enjoyed at a social distance but playgrounds and play areas remain closed.
• More than 80 cafés and food outlets at National Trust are taking part in the government’s Eat Out to Help Out Scheme so be sure to enjoy a half-price treat!

For more information on visiting and booking, visit the National Trust website.

For your chance to win a National Trust membership and enjoy the wonderful sites whenever you feel like it, enter our competition! All you have to do is head over to our Facebook page and follow the instructions for your chance to win!

Good luck!