We’re big fans of the National Trust and make the most of our membership—it’s a fantastic way for families to explore beautiful locations all year round. Although there aren’t any National Trust properties directly in Sheffield or even in South Yorkshire, there are plenty of wonderful places just a short drive away that are well worth a visit.
Here are five of our favourite National Trust spots—all under an hour’s drive from Sheffield:
1. Clumber Park (Worksop)
Clumber Park is our top pick for a National Trust day out. I’ve been visiting since I was a child, and now I love bringing my own kids here to make memories of their own. This historic country park has so much to offer—from woodland walks and lakeside strolls to beautiful gardens and a brilliant children’s playground. It’s the kind of place you can return to again and again and always find something new to explore.
2. Longshaw, Burbage and the Eastern Moors
Just a short drive from Sheffield, Longshaw is probably the nearest National Trust site to the city and offers breathtaking views of the Peak District. It’s ideal for letting kids run off some energy in the fresh air. Longshaw also has excellent visitor facilities including a café, car park, gift shop, and toilets.
The National Trust regularly hosts events here—last October, we took part in a Halloween Trail that the kids absolutely loved! You can check their website for upcoming events.
3. Hardwick (near Chesterfield)
Hardwick Hall is one of our absolute favourites. This magnificent Elizabethan house is surrounded by equally impressive gardens and parkland. It’s very family-friendly—there’s a fun outdoor play area, and inside the hall you’ll find activities and games that help keep children entertained as you explore the historic rooms.
4. Mr Straw’s House (Worksop)
From the outside, Mr Straw’s House looks like a regular semi-detached home. But step inside, and you’re transported back to the 1920s. Everything inside has been preserved just as it was—giving visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past.
This one’s best for slightly older children, as nothing in the house can be touched and there’s no running around allowed. That said, we took our kids when they were 3 and 5 and they did great—curious and engaged the whole way through.
5. Nostell Priory (near Wakefield)
Nostell Priory is an 18th-century mansion set in 300 acres of parkland. It’s ideal for families who enjoy nature walks, as there are plenty of trails and wildlife to discover. The gardens are beautiful and the house is also worth a visit if your children are up for a bit of history.