The estate’s fallow deer herd is a remnant of the medieval hunting park established on the site long before the current mansion was built.
During WWI, the 10th Earl of Stamford converted the house into a 100-bed auxiliary military hospital for wounded soldiers.
The winter garden features over 700 species of plants, specifically curated to bloom or show foliage interest between November and March.
The park contains one of the largest collections of veteran trees in the North West, including ancient oaks and beeches.
The estate includes an 18th-century bowling green that remains intact.
The house contains a hidden service tunnel system once used by staff to move through the property unseen by residents.
Dunham Massey is a 300-acre deer park featuring a Georgian house and an extensive winter garden. The park is home to a historic herd of over 150 fallow deer, which have been present on the estate since 1730. The house preserves an extensive collection of 18th-century art, silver, and furniture, including a significant assemblage from the Stamford family. The site includes a Victorian Bark House and an orangery set within 20 acres of gardens. The winter garden is one of the largest of its kind in the UK, designed to showcase architectural plants and bark color during colder months. The estate served as a military hospital during the First World War. It is owned and managed by the National Trust. The grounds contain a diverse range of veteran trees, some over 400 years old.
The path overlooking the canal and bridge with the main house reflected in the water.
Bring binoculars to observe the deer herd from a respectful distance without disturbing them.
Wear waterproof footwear as the parkland can become very muddy during the autumn and winter months.
Check the house availability in advance, as certain rooms may periodically close for conservation work.
Do not attempt to feed or approach the deer, as they are wild animals and can be aggressive during rutting or calving seasons.
The house interior often operates on a restricted schedule compared to the parkland; please check for seasonal closures of specific rooms.
Keep dogs on short leads at all times due to the free-roaming deer; maintain a safe distance from all wildlife.
